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Aurum Alumna: Monserrat Castro

There is no greater testament to our exemplary education model than the success of our students both during and after their experience at Aurum Preparatory Academy (Aurum Prep). The story of each and every student who walks the halls of Aurum Prep inspires our mission, but today, we would like to introduce you to one particularly inspiring member of the graduating class of 2022, Monserrat Castro.


An Aurum Prep Academy student hard at work while focusing on working with the stock market

In her 3 years at Aurum Prep, Monserrat became one of our most awarded students. She was on the Golden Honor Roll for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade and also received our Golden Scholar Award. At our recent ceremony for the second graduating class of Aurum Prep, Monserrat delivered a speech as 1 of our 3 valedictorians–all of whom graduated with a perfect 4.0 grade point average!


Monserrat credits her success to her teachers and school for helping her learn many new things. Montserrat mentions her advisor, Mr. Duffy, as one of her favorite teachers at Aurum Prep, and not just because they got to watch the movie Scream together after completing the SBAC tests. Monserrat also fondly regards her English teacher, Ms. A for helping to make history come alive, like when they simulated a trench war while reading All Quiet on the Western Front, by Erich Maria Remarque. She’ll also never forget playing bumper cars on the slide with the whole school after testing.


Monserrat delivered her moving graduation speech to families, faculty and students in both Spanish and English, thanking everyone for their support and love throughout middle school. She spoke of the close, uplifting community at Aurum Prep and recalled the incredible growth of her friends and the school:


“I’ve learned who I am and who I want to be, and it has been like that for many people, we’ve not only grown in size but as people and a community.”


When asked about the greatest lesson she learned at Aurum Prep, Monserrat said that with effort, she knows she can achieve anything. She would like to leave her Aurum Prep classmates with one piece of advice: Keep a clear view of what you want.


What’s next for Monserrat? We are proud to report that she has been awarded a full scholarship to attend Bishop O’Dowd High School in Oakland. Congratulations on your incredible accomplishments, Monserrat! We are proud of you and know you will make waves in the world.


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About Aurum Prep


Aurum Preparatory Academy teaches college preparation, character development, and design thinking to students in Oakland, Ca. Through rigorous instruction and positive character education, Aurum Prep educates all students in grades 6 through 8 to succeed in high school, college, and life, and serve as the next generation of moral leaders. Enroll your middle school student today.


The future begins today. At Aurum Prep, our students are taking the steps they need to celebrate today, and make tomorrow brighter. Learn more about enrolling your student at our tuition-free middle school, today:


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