# The Crenshaw Academy > The Crenshaw Academy is a private, secular, college-preparatory school in Gotha, Florida, serving students from Kindergarten through 12th grade in the greater Orlando area. Founded in 1997, the school is accredited by Cognia (SACS/CASI), the Association of Independent Schools of Florida, the Middle States Association, Accreditation International, and the National Council for Private School Accreditation. The Crenshaw Academy is organized into Lower School (K-5), Middle School (6-8), and Upper School (9-12) divisions, and is known for small class sizes and individualized instruction. The school is led by Head of School Brenda Crenshaw and Principal Tanya Williams. The Crenshaw Academy takes a student-centered approach built around small class sizes and close faculty-student-parent relationships. The curriculum emphasizes debate, discussion, substantial writing and reading, questioning, and experimentation, with younger students following an experiential, individualized program and upper-grade students choosing from required courses, electives, and honors-level work in every discipline. The school's stated mission is to develop the whole student through rigorous academics, community service, and character development, alongside athletics and the arts. The Upper School (grades 9-12) offers a college-preparatory curriculum with honors courses across disciplines, seminar-style classes, and a computer science requirement. Juniors and seniors with a B average or higher can take one or two classes per semester through a Dual Enrollment partnership with Valencia College or the University of Central Florida, a program the school credits with strengthening students' college admissions outcomes. The Upper School curriculum also includes coursework in international business and business management as part of its academic offering. Tuition varies by grade level and is available as a downloadable schedule through the admissions office rather than published in full online; families are directed to contact the school directly for current rates and payment options. The Crenshaw Academy accepts the Step Up For Students PEP (Personalized Education Program) Scholarship and offers a hybrid program for families needing schedule flexibility. The school is also SEVP-approved to enroll international students on F-1 visas. **Is The Crenshaw Academy a religious school?** No. The Crenshaw Academy operates as a secular, nonsectarian college-preparatory school. **Does The Crenshaw Academy offer dual enrollment?** Yes. Juniors and seniors with a B average or higher may take one or two college classes per semester at Valencia College or the University of Central Florida while still enrolled at Crenshaw. ## About - [About The Crenshaw Academy](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/our-school/about-the-crenshaw-academy.md) ## Featured Guides - [About The Crenshaw Academy](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/our-school/about-the-crenshaw-academy.md): Learn about The Crenshaw Academy, a secular K–12 college preparatory private school in the Orlando area. Rooted in education since 1997, we offer small class sizes, multiple accreditations, and a genuine commitment to every student's success. - [Leadership](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/our-school/leadership.md): Meet the leadership team at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL. Founder Brenda Crenshaw and Principal Tanya Williams bring decades of private school experience and a genuine commitment to every student's success. - [Accreditation](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/our-school/accreditation.md): The Crenshaw Academy is accredited by SACS/CASI/COGNIA, AISF, the Middle States Association, Accreditation International, and NCPSA. Learn what our accreditations mean for your child's education and future. - [Academic Overview](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/academics/educational-programs.md): Explore the K–12 academic programs at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL. From small class sizes and dual enrollment to flexible scheduling and five accreditations, discover what sets our college prep curriculum apart. - [Upper School (High School Grades 9-12)](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/academics/upper-school-9-12.md): Upper School offers numerous opportunities for students to demonstrate their individual strengths and develop their potential. The rigorous college-preparatory program includes honors courses in each discipline in addition to electives, and prepares students for the college and university setting. - [Dual Enrollment Program](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/academics/dual-enrollment.md): The Crenshaw Academy offers dual enrollment starting in 6th grade, with juniors and seniors encouraged to take courses at Valencia Community College or the University of South Florida. Learn how our program gives students a real head start on college. - [Tuition and Fees Schedule](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/admissions/tuition-and-fees.md): Learn about tuition, fees, payment plans, and scholarship options at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL. Flexible payment plans, military and sibling discounts, and Step Up for Students scholarships are available. - [Scholarship Resources](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/admissions/scholarship-resources.md): The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL accepts Step Up for Students FES-EO, FES-UA, FTC, and PEP scholarships, as well as AAA Scholarship Foundation funds. Learn how Florida's school choice programs can make private school more affordable. - [Parents and Students Love The Crenshaw Academy](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/our-school/testimonials.md): Hear from the parents, students, and graduates of The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL. Real families share their experiences at this accredited K–12 private school in the Orlando area. ## The Crenshaw Academy Blog - [Is Private School Worth It? What the Data Says for Orlando Families](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/is-private-school-worth-it-what-the-data-says-for-orlando-families.md): Wondering whether private school is worth the cost? Orlando and Baldwin Park families can explore what the data says about private education outcomes, and how Florida's Step Up For Students scholarships make affordable education in the Baldwin Park area more accessible than most families realize. Le - [Florida School Choice Scholarships: How to Afford Private School in Orlando](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/florida-school-choice-scholarships-how-to-afford-private-school-in-orlando.md): Florida families can use school choice scholarships — including FES-EO, FTC, and FES-UA — to help pay for private K-12 school in Orlando. Learn about eligibility, award amounts, application timelines, and how these scholarships apply to The Crenshaw Academy. - [Beyond GPA: Holistic Assessment and How It Prepares Students for Real-World Success](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/beyond-gpa-holistic-assessment-and-how-it-prepares-students-for-real-world-success.md): Discover how Crenshaw Academy's holistic student assessment approach goes beyond standardized testing to prepare K-12 students for real-world success through comprehensive education evaluation methods. - [Critical Thinking Skills Development in the Classroom](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/critical-thinking-skills-development-in-the-classroom.md): Discover how Crenshaw Academy develops critical thinking skills through small classes, discussion-based learning, and real-world problem solving. K-12 college prep excellence since 1997. - [Maintaining Academic Momentum: How to Keep Students Engaged During School Breaks](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/maintaining-academic-momentum-how-to-keep-students-engaged-during-school-breaks.md): Learn practical holiday learning strategies to prevent academic slide during school breaks. Discover how to keep your child engaged with reading, math, and exploration activities that feel natural and enjoyable. - [When Your Child Dreads Returning to School: Addressing Back-to-School Anxiety After Breaks](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/when-your-child-dreads-returning-to-school-addressing-back-to-school-anxiety-after-breaks.md): Discover compassionate, practical strategies for helping children overcome back to school anxiety after breaks. Learn to identify causes of school reluctance and implement effective solutions. - [Supporting Your Student: Effective Strategies When Your Child is Struggling in School](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/supporting-your-student-effective-strategies-when-your-child-is-struggling-in-school.md): Discover effective strategies to support your child when they're struggling in school. Learn practical approaches for elementary, middle, and high school students facing academic challenges. - [From Kindergarten to College: How a Consistent Educational Philosophy Benefits Students](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/blog/from-kindergarten-to-college-how-a-consistent-educational-philosophy-benefits-students.md): Explore how Crenshaw Academy's consistent K-12 educational approach benefits students. Discover the advantages of educational consistency from kindergarten through college preparation. ## Contact - [Contact](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/contact.md) ## Optional - [Admissions FAQ](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/admissions/admissions-faq.md): Find answers to frequently asked questions about admissions at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL, including enrollment steps, tuition, scholarships, class sizes, and flexible scheduling options. - [Clubs & Activities](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/student-life/clubs-activities.md): Explore clubs and activities at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL, including Student Council, Debate Team, Media Club, and community service. Student life at Crenshaw is personal, purposeful, and built on real relationships. - [Academic FAQ](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/academics/academic-faq.md): Find answers to frequently asked questions about academics at The Crenshaw Academy in Gotha, FL, including class sizes, accreditation, dual enrollment, tutoring, and college preparation. - [Flexible Enrollment](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/academics/flexible-enrollment.md): The Crenshaw Academy's Professional Program offers flexible enrollment for K–12 students in the Orlando area with demanding schedules. Athletes, performers, and travelers receive a full college prep education built around their lives. - [Kindergarten at Crenshaw](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/index.html.md) - [International Student Admissions at The Crenshaw Academy](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/international-student-admissions-at-the-crenshaw-academy.md): As a SEVP-approved institution, we take pride in our commitment to supporting international students throughout their academic journey, from the initial visa application process to graduation day, and beyond. - [Supportive School Orlando](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/supportive-school-orlando.md): For those searching for a supportive school that meets the diverse needs of children from kindergarten through high school, read more here about The Crenshaw Academy in Orlando, Florida. - [Orlando School Resources](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/index.html.md) - [Personalized Education MetroWest, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/personalized-education-metrowest-fl.md): Searching for personalized education near MetroWest, FL? The Crenshaw Academy is an accredited, secular K-12 private school in the Orlando area offering small class sizes, individualized instruction, in-house tutoring, and a flexible college preparatory curriculum designed to meet each student's uni - [Accredited Private School Hunters Creek, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/accredited-private-school-hunters-creek-fl.md): Looking for an accredited private school near Hunters Creek, FL? The Crenshaw Academy is a SACS-accredited, secular K-12 college preparatory school in the Orlando area offering small class sizes, a rigorous curriculum, and dual enrollment opportunities. Discover quality education that is independent - [Affordable Private Education Baldwin Park, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/affordable-private-education-baldwin-park-fl.md): Affordable private K-12 education near Baldwin Park, FL may be closer than you think. Learn how Florida school choice scholarships, tuition discounts, and The Crenshaw Academy's transparent pricing make private school a realistic option for your family. - [K-12 Private School Lake Buena Vista, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/k-12-private-school-lake-buena-vista-fl.md): The Crenshaw Academy is an accredited, secular K-12 college-preparatory private school near Lake Buena Vista, FL. Small class sizes, dual enrollment, Step Up scholarship acceptance, and a proven record of college placement. Schedule your visit today. - [Small Class Size Benefits Casselberry, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/small-class-size-benefits-casselberry-fl.md): Discover the benefits of Casselberry small classes at Crenshaw Academy — an accredited K-12 college preparatory school offering personalized education with 12:1 and 15:1 student-to-teacher ratios since 1997. - [Academic Private School Longwood, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/academic-private-school-longwood-fl.md): Crenshaw Academy offers families near Longwood, FL a K-12 college preparatory education with small class sizes, dual enrollment, and an entrepreneurial program — preparing students for top universities since 1997. - [College Preparatory Education Altamonte Springs, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/college-preparatory-education-altamonte-springs-fl.md): Discover comprehensive college preparatory education near Altamonte Springs, FL at Crenshaw Academy. Rigorous curriculum, small classes, and proven university acceptance record since 1997. - [Individualized Learning Maitland, FL](https://thecrenshawacademy.com/resources/individualized-learning-maitland-fl.md): Discover individualized learning near Maitland, FL at Crenshaw Academy. Small class sizes, personalized education, and individual attention for K-12 students since 1997.