• Alex Merritt, Principal

    Welcome to Alex Sanger Preparatory!

    When I first walked in the door at Alex Sanger Preparatory in 2020, I knew that this was where I was supposed to be.

    I wanted to start my leadership journey at a school that centered the whole child, not just academics. Within minutes, I knew I had found that place in Sanger. I was fortunate to spend three amazing years here as assistant principal. Now as the principal, I am blessed to spend my days building on the incredible legacy that came before me. 

    Sanger is a beacon of excellence in East Dallas.

    The school represents the best of what public education can offer. The school has a long history of being grounded in the community, adapting and upgrading to meet the needs of the tapestry of students it serves.

    The Spanish Dual Language Program is the model of excellence.

    I am biased, of course, but you don't have to take my word for it! We frequently host schools and districts from across Texas to see the amazing work of our dual language program. Two-way dual language education enhances cognitive flexibility and improves problem-solving and multitasking skills due to the brain's increased capacity for managing two linguistic systems. Sanger's approach fosters greater cultural understanding and empathy among students by immersing them in diverse linguistic and cultural environments. Additionally, students in the dual language program achieve high proficiency in both languages, providing long-term academic and professional advantages in an increasingly globalized world.

    Sanger's next phase is our candidacy for International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) for our middle school students.

    The IB MYP fosters a deep understanding of complex global challenges, cultivating critical and reflective thinkers. The interdisciplinary approach of the MYP encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, enhancing their holistic development. Furthermore, the emphasis on a community project work and community service nurtures self-management skills, responsibility, and a commitment to positive community engagement.

    Our PreK-8 identity is a real advantage.

    It allows us to build relationships across grade levels and encourages our middle school students to be role models and leaders. Not only have I noticed the profound impact the PreK-8 model has on the Sanger school community, educational research has shown that students demonstrate fewer behavioral problems and higher academic achievement than students enrolled in middle schools.

    Sanger offers specials, electives, and clubs for a broad range of student interests.

    These include studio art, music, strings, physical education, dance, Leadership Cadet Corps (JROTC for middle school), and theatre. After school, students enjoy participating in our world champion Robotics team, chess club, Esports club, debate, art club, basketball club, and middle school sports like football, soccer, and volleyball with our partner, Gaston Middle School. We value the whole child, and these offerings allow the kids to develop, succeed, and discover new interests beyond the classroom. 

    Sanger's success is bolstered by high parental involvement in our PTA and community partners.

    It truly is a place where a diverse tapestry of stakeholders comes together to achieve our vision of being the premier school in East Dallas. 

    Thank you for taking the time to explore our website! When you are finished visiting us online, I invite you to visit our campus to see for yourself how Sanger students experience the joy of learning in a supportive community, and what makes their educational experience so exceptional.

    Alex Merritt

    Principal