University of Michigan. University School.

Demonstration schools operated by the University of Michigan School of Education.

University High School opened in 1924 followed by University Elementary School in 1930. In 1955 they were combined as University School before closing in 1969.

From the description of University School (University of Michigan) records, 1920-1975 (bulk 1930-1960). (University of Michigan). WorldCat record id: 85778215

During the early 1920s, the School of Education faculty began to discuss the possibility of establishing a high school within the School of Education. The original objectives of the high school were to serve as a laboratory for scientific study of secondary school problems and to furnish facilities for observational work and directed teaching to approximately one hundred university students each semester.

In 1922 the Legislature approved $525,000 for a high school building. In the fall of 1924, the school was opened to students in grades seven to twelve. There were 123 students the first year, with a limit set at 360. Students were grouped into homerooms by grade and after 1929, also by sex. Students had the same home room teacher for all six years (grade seven through twelve). Much of the student life was organized by homeroom: representation to Student Council, intra-mural sports, and various school and community service projects. Tuition for the high school was $15.00 per semester, with a limited number of scholarships available. The University High School was fully accredited by the University of Michigan and the North Central Association of College and Secondary Schools.

Six years later, in the fall of 1930, the University Elementary School opened with sixty five students between the ages of two-and-a-half and five-and-a-half. Each year, the next oldest age group was added until the school reached the sixth grade. The main focus of the school was educational research and the study of child development. The school was used as a demonstration center for educators in the newer practices of educating children. Tuition at the time of opening was $50 per semester for a full day session and $15.00 a semester for children on half-day session.

In 1955 the University High School and the University Elementary School were combined, to be known as the University Schools; Dr. Robert S. Fox was appointed director.

In the 1960s, the School of Education established new priorities and the decision was made to eliminate the University Schools. The last senior class graduated in 1968, although the high school continued for one more academic year. The elementary division closed its doors at the end of the 1969/70 school year.

Following the closing of University School the buildings were converted to administrative space and classrooms for the School of Education.

From the guide to the University School (University of Michigan) records, 1920-1975, 1930-1960, (Bentley Historical Library University of Michigan)