When families in the Dr. Phillips area consider educational options that will best prepare their children for university success, Crenshaw Academy stands out as a premier college preparatory school with a proven track record of academic excellence. Located just a short drive from Dr. Phillips, our comprehensive K-12 program combines rigorous academics, small class sizes, and personalized attention to create an educational environment where students thrive and develop the skills needed for college and beyond.
The Crenshaw Academy College Preparatory Advantage
What makes Crenshaw Academy the ideal college preparatory school for families in the Dr. Phillips area? Our approach to education is built on several key pillars that create a foundation for university success:
Comprehensive K-12 College Preparatory Program
Unlike schools that begin college preparation only in high school, Crenshaw Academy takes a holistic approach that begins in the earliest grades:
- Progressive skill development from kindergarten through 12th grade
- Coherent curriculum that builds sequentially across all divisions
- Consistent educational philosophy focused on college readiness
- Faculty collaboration across grade levels to ensure proper skill development
- Smooth transitions between Lower, Middle, and Upper School
This comprehensive approach ensures that students develop the academic skills, study habits, and intellectual curiosity needed for college success long before they begin the application process.
Small Class Sizes for Personalized Education
True college preparation requires individualized attention that's simply not possible in overcrowded classrooms. Crenshaw Academy maintains small class sizes across all grade levels:
- Lower School (K-5): 12:1 student-teacher ratio
- Middle School (6-8): 15:1 student-teacher ratio
- High School (9-12): 15:1 student-teacher ratio
These small class sizes allow our teachers to:
- Identify and nurture each student's unique strengths
- Provide additional support in areas needing development
- Offer more extensive feedback on assignments and assessments
- Adapt teaching methods to match different learning styles
- Build meaningful relationships that enhance the learning process
For families in the Dr. Phillips area seeking personalized college preparation, our low student-teacher ratios create an environment where every student receives the attention needed to excel academically.
Accredited Excellence
Crenshaw Academy is fully accredited by respected educational organizations:
- SACS / CASI / COGNIA
- Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF)
- Middle States Association
- Accreditation International
- National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)
These accreditations ensure that our educational programs meet rigorous standards while providing the personalized attention that sets us apart. For college-bound students, attending an accredited school is essential, as it validates the quality of their academic preparation in the eyes of university admissions officers.
College Preparatory Curriculum
Lower School (K-5): Building Strong Foundations
College preparation begins with mastering fundamental academic skills. In our Lower School, students develop:
- Strong reading comprehension and literacy skills
- Solid mathematical foundations
- Effective writing abilities
- Scientific thinking and inquiry methods
- Research and study skills
- Technological literacy
Our 12:1 student-teacher ratio ensures that each child receives individualized attention during these crucial formative years. By establishing strong academic foundations in Lower School, we prepare students for the more challenging work they'll encounter in Middle and Upper School.
Middle School (6-8): Developing Academic Independence
The middle school years are critical for developing the academic independence and study skills needed for college success. Our Middle School program helps students:
- Transition to departmentalized instruction
- Master increasingly complex academic content
- Develop effective time management and organizational skills
- Build research and critical thinking abilities
- Gain experience with longer-term projects and assignments
With a 15:1 student-teacher ratio, our Middle School provides the guidance and support students need while encouraging the development of greater academic independence.
High School (9-12): College-Level Academic Preparation
Our Upper School curriculum provides rigorous college preparation through:
- Challenging core courses in English, mathematics, science, and social studies
- Honors courses in all disciplines
- Advanced writing and research projects
- Emphasis on analytical thinking and problem-solving
- Development of effective communication skills
With a 15:1 student-teacher ratio, our Upper School ensures that each student receives the personalized guidance needed to excel academically and prepare effectively for college-level work.
Specialized College Preparatory Programs
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
For qualified 11th and 12th-grade students, Crenshaw Academy offers Dual Enrollment opportunities at Valencia Community College or University of Central Florida. This program allows students to:
- Earn transferable college credits while still in high school
- Experience college-level coursework in a supported environment
- Enhance their college applications with demonstrated college readiness
- Develop confidence and maturity for future academic pursuits
Students with a B average or above can register for one or two classes per semester, gaining valuable college experience while still benefiting from our supportive high school environment. This experience has proven invaluable for our graduates as they transition to full-time university studies.
College Acceptance and University Success
The true measure of a college preparatory program is the success of its graduates. Crenshaw Academy's comprehensive approach to college preparation has led to exceptional university acceptance rates and collegiate success.
University Acceptance Rates
Crenshaw Academy graduates have been accepted to prestigious universities nationwide, including:
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Georgetown University
- University of Florida
- Florida State University
- University of Miami
- Rollins College
- University of Central Florida
- University of Southern California
- And many more
This impressive list of university acceptances reflects the quality of our college preparatory program and the academic excellence of our graduates.
College Counseling Process
Our comprehensive college counseling begins early and provides personalized guidance throughout the application process:
- Freshman Year: Introduction to college planning and academic goal-setting
- Sophomore Year: Exploration of potential college majors and career interests
- Junior Year: College visits, standardized test preparation, and development of college list
- Senior Year: Application completion, essay writing, interview preparation, and final decision-making
This structured approach ensures that students approach the college application process with confidence and clarity, resulting in admissions to universities that match their academic abilities, personal interests, and career goals.
Academic Excellence That Prepares for University Success
For families in the Dr. Phillips area seeking a private high school with exceptional university acceptance rates, Crenshaw Academy offers a comprehensive approach to college preparation that encompasses:
Rigorous Academic Standards
Our college preparatory curriculum features:
- Challenging coursework that exceeds state requirements
- Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving
- Advanced writing and research projects
- Integration of technology across the curriculum
- Focus on developing intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning skills
These rigorous academic standards ensure that our graduates are well-prepared for the demands of university coursework.
Development of Essential College Skills
Beyond academic knowledge, successful university students need specific skills that Crenshaw Academy intentionally develops:
- Effective time management
- Strong study habits
- Research proficiency
- Analytical thinking
- Self-advocacy
- Collaborative teamwork
- Public speaking and presentation skills
By developing these essential skills throughout their educational journey, our students enter college with the tools needed for academic success.
Character Development
We recognize that college success requires more than just academic preparation. Our program also emphasizes character qualities that contribute to university achievement:
- Integrity and ethical decision-making
- Perseverance and resilience
- Responsibility and accountability
- Initiative and leadership
- Respect for diverse perspectives
These character qualities complement academic knowledge, creating well-rounded graduates prepared for the challenges and opportunities of college life.
Location and Accessibility
Located just a short drive from the Dr. Phillips area, Crenshaw Academy offers convenient access to our college preparatory program:
- Easily accessible from major transportation routes
- Reasonable commute time from Dr. Phillips neighborhoods
- Efficient drop-off and pick-up procedures
- Beautiful campus environment conducive to learning
Many local families find that the brief commute is well worth the exceptional college preparatory experience their children receive at Crenshaw Academy.
Admissions Process
Families interested in our college preparatory program can begin the admissions process with these simple steps:
- Schedule a campus tour: Experience our college preparatory program in action and see the difference quality education makes.
- Complete an application: Our admissions team will guide you through the process.
- Student assessment: We'll work to understand your child's unique learning profile and academic needs.
- Family interview: This conversation helps us determine if Crenshaw Academy is the right fit for your family.
- Enrollment: Upon acceptance, complete the enrollment process to secure your child's place.
Tuition and Investment
Investing in college preparation is one of the most important decisions families can make. Crenshaw Academy offers several payment options and scholarships to accommodate different situations:
Annual Enrollment Fees (2025-2026)
- Grades K-12: $1,400
- New Student Fee (One-Time Only): $250
Tuition Payment Options (2025-2026)
Single Payment Plan (Due by August 1, 2025)
- Lower School (K-5): $11,670
- Middle School (6-8): $14,000
- High School (9-11): $15,170
- Senior (12): $15,520
10 Payment Plan (August 1, 2025 - May 1, 2026)
- Lower School (K-5): $1,250 per month
- Middle School (6-8): $1,470 per month
- High School (9-11): $1,600 per month
- Senior (12): $1,630 per month
Various discounts are available for active military members, first responders, alumni, and siblings. Please inquire during the admissions process for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Crenshaw Academy's college preparatory program compare to other private high schools in the area?
Crenshaw Academy distinguishes itself through its comprehensive K-12 approach to college preparation, small class sizes (15:1 in high school), and specialized offerings like our Entrepreneurial Program and Dual Enrollment opportunities. Our university acceptance rates demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
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At what age should college preparation begin?
While formal college counseling begins in high school, the academic foundations, study habits, and character development that contribute to college success are developed throughout a student's educational journey. Our integrated K-12 approach ensures that students are building college readiness from their earliest years.
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How does Crenshaw Academy support students through the college application process?
Our comprehensive college counseling program provides personalized guidance through every aspect of the application process, from selecting appropriate schools to completing applications, writing essays, and preparing for interviews. This individualized approach helps students find and gain admission to universities that match their interests and abilities.
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What standardized test preparation does Crenshaw Academy provide?
We incorporate standardized test preparation into our curriculum and offer additional resources to help students perform at their best on the SAT, ACT, and other college entrance exams. Our approach focuses on both content knowledge and test-taking strategies.
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How does the Dual Enrollment program work?
Qualified juniors and seniors with a B average or above can take one or two college courses per semester at Valencia Community College or University of Central Florida. These courses earn both high school and college credit, giving students a head start on their college education while still benefiting from our supportive high school environment.
Experience the College Preparatory Difference
For families in the Dr. Phillips area seeking a private high school with exceptional university acceptance rates, Crenshaw Academy offers the ideal educational solution. Our comprehensive college preparatory program, small class sizes, and specialized offerings create an environment where students develop the knowledge, skills, and character needed for university success.
Ready to learn more about how Crenshaw Academy's college preparatory program can benefit your student? Contact our Admissions Office today to schedule a campus tour to observe our programs in action and experience how quality education can transform your child's learning journey.
