History

Overview of Fairmont Preparatory Academy

Fairmont Preparatory Academy, often referred to as “Fairmont Prep,” is an integral part of the Fairmont Private Schools network, the largest and oldest secular, co-educational private school system in Orange County, California. Established in 1953 by Kenneth Holt, a former public school teacher, Fairmont Prep is dedicated to providing a personalized educational experience.

Early Beginnings and Expansion

Fairmont Private Schools began as a summer program in Kenneth Holt’s home, quickly growing due to high demand. By 1955, Holt had purchased a larger property to accommodate the increasing number of students, which later became the Fairmont Historic Anaheim Campus.

Establishment of Fairmont Preparatory Academy

In 1993, under the leadership of David Jackson, Kenneth Holt’s stepson who took over in 1979, Fairmont High School was founded. Later renamed Fairmont Preparatory Academy, the school started with a freshman class of 45 students on the Historic Anaheim Campus. The following year, it moved to its current location on the Philip A. Stanton Estate on Sequoia Avenue in Anaheim. Each subsequent year saw the addition of another grade level, expanding the campus further.

Recent Developments

With David Jackson and his son Chad Jackson, who became president in 2018, Fairmont Prep continued to grow. In 1998, Fairmont acquired Edgewood Private School, now known as Fairmont North Tustin Campus. The most recent expansion was in 2020 with a new campus in San Juan Capistrano, extending Fairmont’s reach to South Orange County.

Academic and Extracurricular Achievements

Fairmont Prep is recognized for its rigorous academic programs, including over 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a full International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The school offers specialized tracks in Business, Math, Science, Computer Science, and Engineering, providing students with advanced opportunities and extensive programming.

The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 60 student clubs, community service projects, and sports teams. Notably, it has a highly ranked Speech and Debate team and an advanced Hockey Academy.

Recognition and Awards

Fairmont Prep has earned numerous awards and recognitions, such as the Top School Award at the Orange County Science & Engineering Fair in 2016 and Best Private School by Parenting OC Magazine in 2015 and 2016. The school was also recognized as the National Champion at the 2016 United States Academic Pentathlon.

Conclusion

Fairmont Preparatory Academy stands out as a leading educational institution in Orange County, known for its comprehensive academic programs and wide array of extracurricular activities. The school offers a well-rounded educational environment, preparing students for higher education and future careers.