Business Details
18 Years
experience
Innovative Public Charter School in Downtown San Diego
Urban Discovery Academy is a free public charter school located in downtown San Diego's I.D.E.A. District. Founded in 2008, we operate two campuses serving students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade. Our innovative educational model emphasizes design thinking and project-based learning, ensuring every student completes internships to prepare for real-world challenges. With a 95% graduation rate and 92% of students pursuing higher education, we prioritize personalized learning that adapts to individual student needs.Our partnership with UC San Diego enhances our curriculum across all grade levels, while our commitment to social consciousness and life skills development prepares students for success beyond academics. Recognized for our adaptive pandemic response by TED-Ed's Director of Programs, we maintain a vibrant, inclusive community where staff actively invest in each student's growth. Our alumni consistently credit our mentorship programs for their confidence in navigating college and independent living.
Services
TK-6th Grade Program
7th-8th Grade Program
9th-12th Grade Program
Project-Based Learning
Internship Placement
College Preparation
Mental Health Resources
Design Thinking Curriculum
UC Partnership Programs
Student Mentorship
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer award-winning design thinking curriculum preparing students for future challenges
- Our 100% internship completion rate ensures real-world experience for all students
- 92% college-bound graduates demonstrate our effective college preparation programs
- We maintain a 7:1 student-teacher ratio for personalized learning experiences
- Our UC San Diego partnership enhances STEM education across all grade levels
What people say
Highly motivated, skilled teachers
Vibrant student life
Adaptive education system
Prepared for college
Inclusive environment
Services
TK-6th Grade Program
Our transitional kindergarten through 6th grade program establishes foundational academic skills while fostering creativity through design thinking. Students engage in project-based learning that integrates core subjects with real-world problem solving. The curriculum emphasizes social-emotional development alongside academic achievement.
Project-Based Learning
Our signature instructional approach connects classroom learning to practical applications through long-term projects. Students collaborate on complex questions, developing critical thinking and presentation skills while meeting state academic standards. This method promotes deeper understanding and retention of concepts.
Internship Placement
Every high school student completes professional internships to gain workplace experience and explore career paths. We partner with local businesses and organizations to provide meaningful opportunities that align with students' interests and academic goals. This program builds practical skills and professional networks.
College Preparation
Our comprehensive college counseling program guides students through course selection, application processes, and financial aid options. With 92% of graduates pursuing higher education, we focus on matching students with institutions that fit their academic profiles and career aspirations.
UC Partnership Programs
The partnership with UC San Diego enhances our STEM curriculum through joint research projects, university mentorship, and access to specialized resources. This collaboration provides students with exposure to cutting-edge scientific research and university-level academic opportunities.
Questions
Is Urban Discovery Academy a free public school?
Yes, we are a free public charter school open to all students in San Diego County without tuition charges.
What grade levels do you serve?
We serve students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade across two downtown San Diego campuses.
How does your internship program work?
All high school students complete internships through our local business partnerships, gaining real-world experience aligned with their career interests.
What makes your curriculum unique?
Our design thinking approach combines project-based learning with 21st-century skills development, emphasizing creativity and problem-solving across all grade levels.
How do you prepare students for college?
We provide personalized college counseling, rigorous academic preparation, and internship experiences that build both academic and life skills for higher education success.
Are there special programs for younger students?
Our TK-6th grade program focuses on foundational skills through experiential learning while developing social-emotional competencies in a supportive environment.
