About Veritas Prep
Our History
Founded in 2012, Veritas Prep Charter School was born from a vision to overcome the chronic challenges facing Springfield’s middle schools. In 15 years, the school has become a beacon of educational excellence, addressing urgent student needs with a robust commitment to equity and innovation.
In 2022, Veritas opened the doors of our Early College high school, offering students the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credits and a general studies associates degree alongside their high school diploma.
Today, we serve over 700 Springfield, MA students in grades 5-12, operating a middle school (grades 5–8) and a high school (grades 9–12). Reflecting the demographics of Springfield, more than 70% of Veritas students identify as Hispanic and over 80% come from low-income backgrounds. It is our mission to create a school where all students, regardless of their socio-economic background, are on track for college, career, and to reach their dreams.
Mission
Our mission is to prepare scholars in grades 5-12 to compete, achieve, and succeed in high school, college, and beyond. This mission drives every decision we make, from curriculum and instruction to hiring and professional development. We believe every child deserves access to a high-quality education that unlocks opportunity and expands what’s possible for their future.
Vision
We recognize that inequities in education are deeply rooted in historical systems that have disproportionately impacted communities of color. In Springfield, college attainment rates and income levels trail far behind state averages. Veritas Prep is committed to expanding access to early college opportunities for all students and collaborating with families and the Springfield community to change outcomes for students in Springfield.
Values
Students First
We center every decision on what is best for students. Our actions model excellence, accountability, and care.
Grow Together
We embrace feedback, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Growth mindset is not just for students, it defines how we work as adults.
One Team, One Mission
We support one another, celebrate each other, and play unique roles in pursuit of student success.
At Veritas, the journey to college starts in 5th grade. Our innovative Early College model expands access, removes financial barriers, and ensures that all students graduate ready for college and beyond.
Grades 5-8
Grades 5-8, Veritas Prep Middle School, is where the foundations for high school and college are built. The middle school offers a rigorous, standards-based curriculum with high quality instructional materials across all grades and subjects. In 5th grade, students have two teachers in their classroom, ensuring a smooth transition from elementary school, and confidence in essential academic skills. In grades 5-8, students engage in a seminar block where they explore their interests, hear from career speakers, and build the skills and mindsets to help them be ready for college. In additional to core classes, students have daily enrichment blocks in art, music, and physical education.
Grades 5-12
In addition to meeting all MassCore state graduation requirements, Veritas Prep goes well beyond through our Early College program. Starting in 9th grade, students can begin to take college courses offered through our university partnerships with Worcester State University and Springfield Technical Community College.
These courses count towards high school graduation requirements and earn students up to 60 college credits that transfer to any Massachusetts public 4-year college or university.
All college courses are taught by accredited professors from our university partners, and starting junior year, students enrolled in college courses take some or all of their classes on the campus of Springfield Technical Community College, giving them exposure to a real college campus while retaining the supportive structures of high school.
Students at Veritas can graduate high school with both a high school diploma and a General Studies Associate Degree, at absolutely no cost to them.
(Note that we do not offer AP classes, in which students need to take a final exam to potentially earn college credit.)
Available Early College courses can be found in our Program of Studies.
Our History
Founded in 2012 by a certified principal and English teacher, Veritas Prep was born from a vision to overcome the chronic challenges facing Springfield’s middle schools. Under her leadership, the school quickly became a beacon of educational excellence, addressing urgent student needs with a robust commitment to equity and innovation. Through meticulously developed programs that challenge and elevate, Veritas Prep fosters positive change across our community, enhancing student growth and transforming lives.
Our Leadership
Our leadership team, drawn from a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds, is deeply committed to fostering an environment where both students and staff can thrive.
Middle School Leadership Team
TJ Hebert
Principal
Charmayne Wright
Assistant Principal
High School Leadership Team
Dr. Stephen Mahoney
Principal
Shirley Amunya
Assistant Principal
Dexter Miller
Assistant Principal
Our Board
Our board members bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, guiding Veritas Prep with strategic oversight and a shared vision for the future of education. For inquiries or to contact the Board of Trustees, please email the Board Chair, Matthew Landon, at [email protected].
Andrea Hickson-Martin
Member
Aaron Mendelson
Member
AnnMarie Martínez
Treasurer
Rebecca Sela
Member
Robert Leonard
Member
Robert Martin
Secretary
Matthew Landon
Board Chair
David Fuller
Member
Michael Freeman
Member
Denise Ford
Member
Ann Errichetti
Member
Lisa Doherty
Member
Xiomara DeLobato
Member
Please visit our public dashboard for a list of all upcoming Board and committee meetings and agendas.