FAQs

Got kids? Then you’ve got questions! We’ve compiled the answers to the questions we hear most frequently for at-your-fingertips access. Still need answers? Just give us a call; we’re always happy to help.

What is a charter school?

A charter school is a public school that operates with a unique mission independently of the local/traditional school system and provides parents with a choice in the education of their children. Charter schools have open enrollment with no discrimination, no religious association, and no tuition.

How much does it cost to attend OPS?

As a public charter schools, we are tuition free. We receive public tax dollars as our primary funding source. Local and state dollars follow the child to a charter school.

How is OPS different than other schools in the area?

OPS is not only centered on a college preparatory curriculum, but it has a unique focus on the arts and community service in order to develop well-rounded students. We have the goal of preparing 100% of our graduates to gain admission and thrive at four-year colleges/universities.

Do you have to live in Oxford or Granville County to attend OPS?

No. As a NC charter school, Oxford Preparatory is open to any student who is a domiciled North Carolina resident. If we receive more applicants than we have spaces for, we will hold a blind public lottery.

Does OPS offer athletics programs for its students?

Yes! We are the Griffins! At present, we offer the following varsity sports programs: cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s basketball, swimming, cheerleading, baseball, and softball. We may add programs based on demand and facility availability. In addition, OPS offers the following middle school teams: cross country, boys and girls soccer, volleyball, boys and girls basketball, cheerleading, baseball, and softball.

These teams compete in the NCHSAA as a member of the 1A Triangle North Athletic Conference.

How will we be notified if school is cancelled or closed due to bad weather?

OPS makes weather closure decisions independently of other public school units by assessing information from a variety sources. To confirm these closures, please watch/listen to WRAL-TV (channel 5) or WRAL-FM (101.5 FM), or visit the WRAL News website for information on Oxford Preparatory School’s closing or delay in opening the school. We will also post information here on our website and on our Facebook page.

Does OPS offer driver’s education classes?

No, we do not directly offer driver’s education classes, since charter schools do not receive funding to provide the program. However, students may enroll in driver’s education through Granville County Public Schools or through for-profit driving schools in the area. Upon successful completion of a driver’s education program, students may obtain a Driving Eligibility Certificate from the OPS office once we have verified adequate academic progress (pass at least 70% of the maximum of possible courses each semester and meet promotion standards).

What is the student parking policy at OPS?

Parking is a privilege for students in the tenth through twelfth grades. Students must display a valid parking pass, which we sell in the school office for $50. To obtain a parking pass, please present your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and parking application. For rules and violation fines, please refer to our student handbooks on the Our School page.

What is the dress code?

While we do not require students to wear a uniform, OPS expects students to project a positive image of the school and of themselves. Our dress code is designed to reflect self-respect, pride, good judgment, and awareness of dress appropriate to place and action. We require all student attire to be neat, clean, and free from rips and tears. We ask students to avoid wearing any item of clothing (hats, shirts, belt buckles, sweatshirts, etc.) that might be disruptive, obscene, or offensive to any fellow student or staff member. We will require any student who chooses to come to school dressed inappropriately to immediately address the issue. Please consult the student handbooks on the Our School page for details.

What is your policy for distributing medication?

In order to dispense over-the-counter medications to students, parents must complete a Permission to Dispense form available from the office.

If a student needs to take any prescription medication during the school day, the student should bring the medicine along with an instruction form obtained from the physician to the office. This will need to be updated each year. It is the student’s responsibility to come to the office at the specified time to receive his or her medication from a member of the office staff. Students must sign the medication log and take their medication in the presence of a staff member.