When seeking the best educational foundation for your child, exploring options beyond your immediate area can lead to discovering the perfect learning environment. For families in Lake Nona, FL looking for exceptional private education, The Crenshaw Academy offers a distinctive approach to learning that balances academic rigor with personalized attention.
Located a short drive from Lake Nona, our academy provides a compelling alternative for parents seeking a non-religious private school experience that emphasizes both academic excellence and the development of the whole child.
Why Consider Options Beyond Lake Nona for Private Education?
Finding the right educational fit sometimes means looking beyond your immediate neighborhood. While proximity is convenient, the perfect school environment for your child deserves consideration regardless of a few extra miles. Many families from Lake Nona choose The Crenshaw Academy for several compelling reasons:
- Educational Philosophy Alignment: Our approach to education may better match your family's values and your child's learning needs
- Specialized Programs: Access to our entrepreneurial program and dual enrollment opportunities not available at all schools
- Class Size Advantage: Our small teacher-to-student ratios provide personalized attention that fosters academic growth
- Secular Curriculum: A non-religious educational approach focused on academic excellence and critical thinking
- College Preparation: Proven track record of university acceptances and scholarship achievements
The Crenshaw Academy: A Distinguished Alternative
Founded in 1997 by Brenda Crenshaw, our academy has established a well-earned reputation for educational excellence. What began with just five students has grown into a respected institution that maintains its commitment to personalized education and academic rigor.
Our Educational Philosophy
The Crenshaw Academy delivers a vibrant, intellectually stimulating educational experience designed to expand horizons while thoroughly preparing students for future success. Our distinctive philosophy centers on fostering respectful, collaborative community relationships and nurturing each child's capacity for intellectual inquiry and independent thinking. We carefully balance fundamental skill mastery with advanced critical thinking and problem-solving development, creating a dynamic environment where debate, discussion, questioning, and hands-on experimentation form the cornerstone of learning.
Our philosophy is built on:
- Respectful and collaborative relationships throughout the community
- Nurturing each child's capacity for intellectual inquiry and independent thought
- Balancing mastery of basic skills with critical thinking and problem-solving
- Creating an environment where debate, discussion, questioning, and experimenting are fundamental aspects of learning
Small Class Sizes: The Crenshaw Difference
For families exploring education alternatives near Lake Nona, our exceptional student-teacher ratios represent a significant advantage. With Lower School (K-5) maintaining a 12:1 ratio, and both Middle School (6-8) and High School (9-12) offering a 15:1 ratio, we provide truly personalized education. These intentionally small class sizes enable individualized attention to each student's unique learning style, personalized feedback that enhances academic progress, and strong teacher-student relationships built on trust. Our approach allows for customized learning strategies that address specific challenges while leveraging inherent strengths, and creates abundant opportunities for meaningful participation in classroom discussions and activities.
|
Grade Level |
Student-Teacher Ratio |
|
Lower School (K-5) |
12:1 |
|
Middle School (6-8) |
15:1 |
|
High School (9-12) |
15:1 |
These small ratios allow for:
- Individual attention to each student's learning style and needs
- Personalized feedback that accelerates academic growth
- Strong teacher-student relationships that foster trust and engagement
- Tailored learning approaches that address specific challenges and strengths
- Greater participation opportunities in classroom discussions and activities
Comprehensive K-12 Educational Program
As a complete K-12 institution, The Crenshaw Academy offers a seamless educational journey from the earliest formative years through college preparation.
Lower School (Elementary Grades K-5)
Our Lower School program instills a love of learning from the beginning, with:
- Developmentally appropriate curriculum that inspires children
- Strong foundation in core academic skills
- Introduction to a wide variety of disciplines
- Experiential learning opportunities
- Significant individualization within an integrated curriculum
- Early social skills development
Young students develop positive attitudes about education that will serve them throughout their academic journey. From age five, we guide each child toward self-confidence and independence in a supportive yet challenging environment.
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
The middle school years represent a critical transition period. Our program is specifically designed to meet the varied needs of early adolescents by integrating:
- Core subjects (math, English, science, social studies, and foreign language)
- Fine arts, technology, and physical education
- Study skills development
- Community service opportunities
- Personal growth activities
During these formative years, we solidify basic skills while expanding students' knowledge base and preparing them for the rigors of our college-preparatory Upper School curriculum.
Upper School (High School Grades 9-12)
Our Upper School offers a strong and varied program that provides numerous opportunities for students to demonstrate individual strengths and develop their potential:
- Rigorous college-preparatory curriculum
- Honors courses in each discipline
- Diverse elective offerings
- Independent study options
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
High school students with a B average or above can participate in Dual Enrollment at Valencia Community College, Lake Sumter State College, University of South Florida or University of Central Florida. This program:
- Enhances the college admissions process
- Provides real college experience while still in high school
- Develops confidence and maturity
- Allows students to earn college credits before graduation
Academic Excellence and Preparation
The Crenshaw Academy's educational process prepares students to thrive in college and in life within our global community. We focus on:
Critical Thinking Development
Beyond basic skills, we emphasize:
- Critical reflection
- Transferable skill development
- Analysis and synthesis
- Evaluation and problem-solving
College Preparation and Success
Our graduates have been accepted to top universities nationwide, including:
- Stanford University
- Princeton University
- University of Southern California
- Tulane University
- University of Florida
- University of Miami
- Georgetown University
Beyond Academics: Developing Well-Rounded Students
At The Crenshaw Academy, while rigorous academics form our cornerstone, we firmly believe that a truly comprehensive education must nurture the whole child. Our holistic approach recognizes that physical development, creative expression, and community involvement are equally vital components in preparing students for lifelong success and fulfillment. Through our strategic partnership with D2 Futsal, we've implemented a robust physical education program tailored to developmental needs across all grade levels. Elementary students engage in structured physical activity 1-2 times weekly, while our middle school students participate daily, ensuring healthy habits during these formative years. Families appreciate the convenience and quality of our optional after-school soccer program, which extends physical development opportunities beyond regular school hours.
Physical Education and Sports
We've partnered with D2 Futsal to provide regular physical education classes:
- Elementary students receive PE daily
- Grades 6-8 participate daily
- Grades 9-12 have an option to participate daily
- After-school soccer program options available
Beyond physical wellness, we cultivate well-rounded individuals through meaningful engagement with the arts, athletics, and community service. Students discover their unique talents and passions within our collegial environment, which intentionally balances academic rigor with creative exploration and civic responsibility. This integrated approach helps students develop not only intellectual capabilities but also emotional intelligence, teamwork skills, leadership qualities, and social awareness—essential attributes for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. We believe these experiences outside traditional classroom settings often provide the most transformative moments in a child's educational journey.
Community Engagement
Students learn the importance of self-discovery and education in a collegial environment that emphasizes:
- Academics
- The arts
- Athletics
- Community service
Why Families Choose The Crenshaw Academy
Parents seeking private education options near Lake Nona select our academy for numerous reasons:
Individualized Attention
Our teachers know each student by name, not by seating chart. This personalized approach means:
- Learning challenges are identified early
- Strengths are recognized and nurtured
- Instruction is tailored to individual learning styles
- Students receive the support they need to excel
Secular Educational Approach
As a non-religious private school option for Lake Nona area families, we provide:
- Curriculum based on academic excellence rather than religious doctrine
- Inclusive environment welcoming students of all backgrounds
- Focus on critical thinking and scientific inquiry
- Global perspective that prepares students for diverse workplaces
Innovative Curriculum
Our forward-thinking, innovative, and flexible curriculum is designed to:
- Help students from diverse backgrounds reach new levels of accomplishment
- Adapt to different talents and interests
- Provide outstanding preparation for future endeavors
- Open minds to new possibilities
College Preparation Excellence
Our comprehensive college preparatory approach includes:
- Rigorous academic preparation
- College counseling services
- Scholarship application assistance
- University partnership opportunities
- Dual enrollment experiences
Accreditation and Recognition
The Crenshaw Academy maintains accreditation from multiple respected organizations:
- SACS / CASI / COGNIA
- Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF)
- Middle States Association
- Accreditation International
- National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)
Additionally, we are approved for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and accept Step Up For Students Scholarships.
Tuition and Financial Commitment
We believe in transparency regarding the investment in your child's education. For our 2025-2026 tuition structure, please see our Tuition and Fees page including discounts for Active Military Members, First Responders, Alumni, and Siblings.
The Enrollment Process
For families in Lake Nona considering our school, the enrollment process involves:
- Initial Contact: Complete our inquiry form to schedule an appointment with an Admissions Advisor
- Campus Tour: Visit our campus and meet with administrators
- Documentation: Complete all required forms and applications
- Enrollment Confirmation: Pay program registration fees and first tuition payment
Visit The Crenshaw Academy
We invite families from Lake Nona to experience the Crenshaw difference firsthand. Touring our campus allows you to:
- Observe our teaching philosophy in action
- Meet our dedicated faculty and staff
- See our facilities and resources
- Ask questions about our programs and approach
- Determine if our educational environment aligns with your family's goals
Finding Your Educational Home
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your child. For many families seeking education alternatives near Lake Nona, The Crenshaw Academy has provided the perfect balance of academic rigor, personalized attention, and preparation for future success.
Our approach recognizes that every child is different and learns in unique ways. Rather than forcing students to fit into standardized programs, we work with each child's individual strengths and challenges to create a supportive educational experience that fosters both academic excellence and personal growth.
Start Your Journey With The Crenshaw Academy
If you're exploring private school options near Lake Nona and seeking a non-religious educational alternative that prioritizes academic excellence, critical thinking, and personalized attention, we invite you to learn more about The Crenshaw Academy.
Contact us today to schedule your campus visit and discover how our unique educational approach can benefit your child's academic journey.
