The Crenshaw Academy is an accredited, secular K-12 college preparatory school in Gotha, Florida, serving families from across the greater Orlando area, including Celebration, FL. Our program is built to prepare students for university admission through small classes, honors coursework, dual enrollment, and personal guidance through the college application process. This page explains what our college prep program includes, what results our students have achieved, and how your family can begin the enrollment process.
A College Preparatory Option for Osceola County Families
Celebration is a master-planned community and census-designated place in Osceola County, originally developed by The Walt Disney Company, with a population of 11,178. Public schools in the community fall within the Osceola County School District.
For Celebration parents comparing private school options, The Crenshaw Academy offers something different from a large campus: a close-knit school where every student is known by name. Our campus is located at 2342 Hempel Avenue in Gotha, in west Orange County.
Families who choose us typically want three things for their children:
- A rigorous academic program that leads directly to college readiness
- Teachers who know each student well and adjust instruction to fit how that student learns
- A welcoming, non-religious environment where families of every background belong
What College Prep Looks Like at The Crenshaw Academy
Every grade level at The Crenshaw Academy is designed with the long view in mind. From Kindergarten forward, students build the habits of critical thinking, written and oral expression, and independent problem-solving that universities expect. By the time students reach our Upper School, they are ready for honors coursework, college-level classes, and the responsibility that comes with both.
Small, Discussion-Based Classes
Our student-to-teacher ratio is 12:1 in the Lower School and 15:1 in the Middle and Upper School. Teachers know students deeply, understand their learning styles, and adjust instruction accordingly. In a class this size, students do not fade into the background.
Upper School courses are taught in seminar-style settings that emphasize inquiry, debate, and clear communication. Students are expected to contribute to every class discussion, and that daily practice builds the confidence they will need in a university lecture hall or seminar room.
Honors Courses and Electives
Honors courses are available in every discipline at the Upper School level. Students may also pursue independent study for additional credit in areas not covered by the standard curriculum. Because we are a small school, elective offerings change from year to year based on student interest and faculty expertise. Past and current electives have included:
- SAT Prep
- Psychology and Philosophy
- Forensic Science, Zoology, and Botany
- Creative Writing and Contemporary Literature
- Intro to Business and Leadership
- Film Appreciation and Video Editing
Upper School students with an interest in business can also take part in our entrepreneurial program for grades 9-12. In addition, every Upper School student completes 100 hours of community service as part of graduation requirements.
Dual Enrollment for a Head Start on College
Dual enrollment is one of the most valuable parts of university preparation Celebration families will find at The Crenshaw Academy. Eligible students may begin as early as 6th grade, and juniors and seniors are encouraged to take courses at Valencia Community College or the University of South Florida. Upper School students may take up to a full course load each semester.
To qualify for dual enrollment at these partner institutions, a student needs:
- A B average or above
- Qualifying scores on the College Board SAT or the PERT
- Parent permission
Credits earned through dual enrollment count toward both the student's high school transcript and a future college degree. Students arrive at university with coursework already completed, along with firsthand experience managing a college schedule. Dual enrollment also signals academic initiative to admissions officers reviewing a student's application. Learn more about this and our other offerings on our Educational Programs page.
Results Families Can Verify
A college prep search should come down to results. Here is what The Crenshaw Academy can point to:
- Standardized testing: Our students ranked above average globally in English on the PSAT/NMSQT and above average statewide in both English and Math on the PSAT 8/9 (The Crenshaw Academy, Educational Programs).
- Independent ratings: Niche gives The Crenshaw Academy an overall grade of A and an A in its College Prep category.
- Five accreditations: We are accredited by SACS/CASI/COGNIA, the Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF), the Middle States Association, Accreditation International, and the National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA). Accreditation helps ensure that colleges and universities recognize your child's transcript and coursework. Details are available on our Accreditation page.
A Secular, Community-Focused School Environment
The Crenshaw Academy is a non-religious school. Our curriculum is driven by academics, and families from all backgrounds and beliefs are equally welcome. For parents seeking a rigorous private education without a religious affiliation, this sets us apart from many college prep schools in Central Florida.
Our founder, Brenda Crenshaw, built the school around a cohesive sense of community and a commitment to knowing every student as an individual. That spirit shows up in clubs such as Student Council, Debate Team, and Media Club, and in daily physical education for Middle and Upper School students through our partnership with D2 Futsal.
Parents notice the difference. One parent shared this in a review: "Crenshaw has provided both of my children with the knowledge and confidence to allow them to be successful in university."
You can read more from our families on our Testimonials page.
Making a Private Education Accessible
Many families find that a Crenshaw education is more affordable than they expected. Enrollment fees include curriculum and course materials, a school-issued laptop, and access to the student and parent portal. Families can choose a single payment or a 10-month payment plan.
We accept several Florida scholarship programs:
- Step Up For Students FES-EO Scholarship
- Step Up For Students FES-UA Scholarship
- Step Up For Students FTC Scholarship
- Step Up For Students PEP Scholarship
- AAA Scholarship Foundation funds
Tuition discounts are available for active military members, first responders, alumni families, and younger siblings. Review current rates on our Tuition and Fees page, and explore funding options through our Scholarship Resources page.
How to Enroll at The Crenshaw Academy
Enrollment is rolling, so families can apply at any point during the year. The process can be completed in person or virtually:
- Schedule a tour. Visit campus, meet our administration, and ask every question you have. Virtual appointments are also available.
- Schedule a shadow day. Prospective students spend a day in the classroom alongside current students.
- Submit your documents. Required items include a birth certificate, immunization records, a Florida Health Exam record, recent report cards or transcripts, and teacher recommendations.
- Complete enrollment. Enrollment is confirmed once all documents are received and the registration and first tuition fees are paid.
Full details are available on our How to Apply page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Crenshaw Academy a religious school?
No. The Crenshaw Academy is a secular, non-religious school. Families from all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome, and our curriculum is entirely academically driven.
What grades does The Crenshaw Academy serve?
We serve students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, with a college preparatory focus at every grade level.
How does dual enrollment work?
Eligible students may begin dual enrollment as early as 6th grade. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to take courses at Valencia Community College or the University of South Florida. Students need a B average or above, qualifying SAT or PERT scores, and parent permission.
Does The Crenshaw Academy offer honors courses?
Yes. Honors courses are available in every discipline at the Upper School level, and students may pursue independent study for additional credit.
Is there an admissions test?
There is no formal academic assessment before acceptance. Admission is based on grades from the student's previous school. After acceptance, we conduct an assessment to understand how best to support the student in the classroom.
Can families from Celebration, FL enroll?
Yes. We welcome families from communities throughout the Orlando area. Contact our admissions team to discuss your student's needs and schedule a visit.
Schedule a Tour of The Crenshaw Academy
Choosing a college preparatory school is one of the most important decisions your family will make. The Crenshaw Academy offers small classes, honors coursework, dual enrollment, five accreditations, and a graduate record that includes some of the most respected universities in the country. The best way to understand what we offer is to see it in person.
Contact us today to schedule a tour, ask about enrollment, or speak with our team about your student's path to college.
