Distinguished by its synthesis of historic tradition and modern pedagogy, the school utilizes a specialized project-based learning (PBL) curriculum that integrates engineering arts, rocketry, and robotics through the Coltharp Center for Evolving Technologies. The academy is also noted for its inclusive approach to neurodiversity, offering executive function support alongside its rigorous academic and global dual-diploma programs. Its athletic department features a nationally ranked basketball team that competes in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League.
In 2025, the school celebrated its sesquicentennial (150th) anniversary.[2]
History
Founding and Mission Era (1875–1972)
Wasatch Academy was established on April 19, 1875, by the Reverend Duncan McMillan. McMillan, a Presbyterian minister, had originally come to the Sanpete Valley to recover his health. He was encouraged to start a school by the local Liberal Party and "apostate" members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who sought an educational alternative to the dominant LDS culture of the time.[3]
The school opened in "Liberal Hall," a building that served as a schoolhouse, church, and community center. For nearly a century, the school operated as a mission school under the Presbyterian Board of Home Missions, educating a diverse population of local students, Native Americans, and boarding students from the intermountain region.
Independence and Modern Era (1972–present)
In the early 1970s, the Presbyterian Church began divesting its mission schools. Facing potential closure, the school's administration and alumni purchased the campus in 1972, transitioning Wasatch Academy into an independent, non-profit institution.[4] While it is no longer governed by the church, the school retains a historical "interfaith" tradition.
In 2025, the school launched the "McMillan and Sanpete Scholars" programs and hosted a Sesquicentennial Gala to commemorate its 150th year.[5]
Academics
The school utilizes a Project-based learning (PBL) educational model, emphasizing hands-on application of knowledge over rote memorization.
Engineering & Makers Lab: The Coltharp Center for Evolving Technologies houses the school's engineering arts program. The facility includes robust maker-spaces, 3D printers, and studio labs where students engage in robotics, rocketry, computer programming, and video game design.[6]
The Learning Center: A specialized program for students with learning differences (such as dyslexia or ADHD), providing executive function coaching and academic support.
Global Programs: The school maintains dual-diploma partnerships with several high schools in China, including Ruian High School and the Beijing National Day School. This allows Chinese students to earn a Wasatch Academy diploma alongside their domestic credentials.[7]
Liberal Hall: Built in 1875, it is now a museum detailing the history of the school and the Sanpete Valley.
Craighead Humanities Building: A historic structure housing English and History departments.
Coltharp Center for Evolving Technologies: A modern facility for engineering, robotics, and digital arts.
Student life
The student body represents over 30 countries and 25 U.S. states.
Equestrian & Rodeo
Wasatch Academy offers a comprehensive equestrian program with on-campus stables and indoor/outdoor arenas. Students can train in both English and Western riding disciplines. The school also fields a competitive Rodeo Team that participates in the Utah High School Rodeo Association events.[8]
Outdoor Education
Located near the Manti-La Sal National Forest, the school integrates outdoor recreation into its curriculum. Programs include rock climbing at the nearby Maple Canyon, skiing and snowsports in the winter, and mountain biking.
Athletics
The Wasatch Academy Tigers are best known for their boys' basketball program, which operates two tiers: a Varsity team for local competition and a "National" team.
National Basketball Team: The national team is a perennial powerhouse that competes in the Nike EYBL Scholastic (formerly the NIBC). The team consistently finishes with a top-25 national ranking and frequently qualifies for the Chipotle Nationals (formerly GEICO Nationals).[9]
Notable alumni
Emmanuel Akot (class of 2017), professional basketball player
Sonita Alizadeh (class of 2014), human rights activist and rapper
Timmy Allen (class of 2018), professional basketball player (Memphis Hustle)
George L. Bartlett (class of 1942), USMC Brigadier General and Navy Cross recipient
Everard Bartlett (class of 2004), professional basketball player
Yousef Bashir (class of 2008), Palestinian-American author
Matt Bradley (class of 2018), professional basketball player
Roddy Gayle Jr. (class of 2022), college basketball player (Ohio State/Michigan)
Camden Heide (class of 2022), college basketball player (Texas)
Nolan Hickman (class of 2021), college basketball player (Gonzaga)
Tana Jambaldorj (class of 2007), business leader and founder of the Mongolian Young Scholars Program
Caleb Lohner (class of 2020), NFL tight end (Denver Broncos)
Koby McEwen (class of 2016), professional basketball player (Vancouver Bandits)
Leonard Miller (class of 2022), NBA player (Minnesota Timberwolves)
John Mobley Jr. (class of 2024), college basketball player (Ohio State)
Isaiah Moss (class of 2015), professional basketball player
Collin Murray-Boyles (class of 2023), college basketball player (South Carolina)
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
