Each of the 240 African American male students has been accepted to a four-year college or university.
Once each senior receives an acceptance letter, he turns in his solid red tie for a red and gold tie. The tie exchange has become a symbol of a great accomplishment that the students strive for.
''It's amazing how many of these guys, when they're seniors apply positive peer pressure to each other about getting into college just so they can get their red and gold ties," said Tim King, founder of the school.
Senior Jeffery Allgood has 24 schools to choose from.
''Lake Forest College, Howard, University of Virginia, Hampton, Tuskegee, Tennessee State,'' Algood said
Allgood credits Urban Prep's nurturing environment and high academic standards for his bright future. So does Ryan Blackwell, who has been accepted to 11 schools.
''Teachers will go out of their way to help you with personal issues. So I feel like here, the support staff is fantastic,'' Blackwell said.
More than 1 in 10 African American males from Chicago Public Schools enrolling in college as a freshman will be an Urban Prep alumnus.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel was on hand to congratulate the students.
The accomplishments of Urban Prep students have drawn international recognition.
