Only On 2: Boarding School In Downtown LA Hotel Teaches Students From Around The World

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A boarding school has opened inside of a downtown Los Angeles hotel with students from around the world in attendance.

American University Preparatory School, founded by Headmaster David Unruh, is at the Marriott Hotel on South Figueroa Street near the Disney Concert Hall, the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Staples Center.

Needless to say, the school is surrounded by the diverse culture of the area.

CBS2's Amy Johnson went on a tour of the school with Unruh.

The cardinal class is made up of 25 freshman and sophomores from across the U.S. and countries such as China, Taiwan, Russia, Czech Republic and Rwanda.

"I really like the place, and I really like the school," said Victoria Borodina, a student from Russia.

Unruh shared that the 21st-century curriculum is delivered to students in highly technological ways.

"It's a great opportunity to study at AUP 'cause they make us think critically," said An Phan, a student from Vietnam.

The hotel houses classrooms as well as dorm rooms for the students.

In about six weeks, however, they will permanently move to a location adjacent to the hotel.

Officials said that AUP is the only boarding school to open in the downtown area so far, as well as being one of few in Southern California.

At this time, seven full time faculty employees are staffed to teach the students this year.

Unruh said his goal is to draw students internationally to AUP and to significantly increase the student body by next year.