Definition of the word prep school

The term "prep school" initially referred to a type of independent school that prepared students for entrance into highly selective colleges and universities, particularly in the eastern United States. The name "prep" is derived from the term "preparatory," which was used to describe the curriculum's focus on academic rigor and the development of intellectual and analytical skills. These schools often offered advanced coursework, small class sizes, and quick-paced schedules designed to push students academically and mentally. Prep schools gained popularity in the 19th century as a response to the rising demand for educations beyond basic primary schooling. Today, while many prep schools still prioritize academic excellence, the term has also come to apply more generally to any independent school that prepares students, regardless of their intended academic paths.