Every child learns differently. Some grasp mathematical concepts quickly but need more time with reading comprehension. Others excel in creative writing but struggle with scientific methods. At Crenshaw Academy, we've built our entire educational philosophy around one fundamental truth: personalized education works better than one-size-fits-all instruction.
Located just minutes from Maitland, our accredited K-12 college preparatory school has been providing individual attention to Central Florida students since 1997. With small class sizes, experienced educators, and a curriculum designed to meet each student where they are, we create learning environments where every child can thrive.
The Importance of Individualized Learning
Traditional classroom settings often force students to fit into predetermined programs and standards. Teachers manage 25, 30, or even more students simultaneously, making meaningful individual attention nearly impossible. Bright students who need additional challenges may become bored and disengaged. Students who need extra support often fall behind, struggling silently in crowded classrooms.
The impact of personalized education extends far beyond test scores. When students receive instruction tailored to their learning style, pace, and interests, they develop confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning. These qualities serve them throughout their academic careers and into their professional lives.
The Crenshaw Academy Difference
At Crenshaw Academy, we don't force children to fit into programs and standards—we work with each child. Our philosophy recognizes that every child is different and learns by different means. This student-centered approach ensures that each child will be known by name, not by seating charts.
Since opening our doors with just five students, we've maintained this commitment to personalized education even as we've grown. Our success caught the attention of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), which accredited us through their international division, CITA, recognizing our exceptional program. Visit our testimonials page to see reviews from graduates.
Small Class Sizes Create Learning Opportunities
Small class sizes and close faculty-student-parent relationships are integral to the Crenshaw education. Our intentionally limited enrollment allows teachers to reach students with various learning styles effectively.
Our Student-Teacher Ratios
- Lower School (K-5): 12:1 – Elementary students receive focused attention during crucial developmental years
- Middle School (6-8): 15:1 – Adolescents benefit from personalized guidance as they navigate increasing academic complexity
- High School (9-12): 15:1 – College-bound students receive individualized support in rigorous preparatory coursework
These ratios translate into daily opportunities for teachers to observe how each student approaches problems. It helps them identify individual strengths and challenges, and adjust instruction accordingly.
In this environment, we foster students' natural capacity for intellectual analysis, problem-solving, independence of thought, and mastery of life-long skills. Because our teaching staff occupies a unique position with such intimate class sizes, they can genuinely connect with each learner's needs.
Personalized Education Across Grade Levels
Lower School: Foundation of Individual Attention (K-5)
Young children develop attitudes about learning based on their earliest experiences in school. With this in mind, Crenshaw Academy offers a nurturing, safe environment and a distinct, sequenced program specifically designed to meet the needs of individual Lower School students.
Our developmentally appropriate curriculum inspires children to love learning by:
- Instilling positive attitudes and motivation
- Teaching strong basic learning skills
- Introducing a wide variety of disciplines
- Fostering early social skills
From age five, Crenshaw Academy guides each child toward self-confidence and independence in a supportive and challenging environment. Your truly educated child of the new millennium will move beyond knowledge and skills to cultivate priceless habits of mind.
These habits of mind include:
- Crafting provocative questions born out of curiosity
- Reflecting on the nature of one's own thinking
- Synthesizing old concepts into new ones
- Weaving together diverse perspectives into one coherent idea
Such habits support lifelong learning—learning that transforms understanding of the world. With small class sizes in Maitland-area classrooms, our teachers can nurture these capabilities in each individual student.
Middle School: Meeting Varied Individual Needs (6-8)
Designed to meet the varied needs of the early adolescent, our Middle School integrates subjects, study skills, community service, athletics, and social and personal growth activities into its program. The curriculum offers a challenging and enriching experience, preparing students for the Upper School's rigorous college preparatory curriculum.
The Middle School builds upon the academic foundation laid in earlier years. In grades six through eight, basic skills are solidified as students expand their knowledge of literature, social studies, mathematics, science, computer, health, and performing arts.
Our approach to personalized education during these critical years addresses:
- Good organization skills tailored to each student's needs
- Routine study skills adapted to individual learning styles
- Personal responsibility for work, guided by attentive faculty
- Mature social behavior supported through close mentorship
The demanding course of study exposes students to a broad knowledge base while our teachers use facts and techniques to help students apply concepts creatively to both individual and group work. The curriculum is interdisciplinary and multicultural, designed to stretch students' thinking from concrete to abstract while keeping enthusiasm high.
Upper School: College Preparation with Personal Guidance (9-12)
Our Upper School offers a strong and varied program that provides numerous opportunities for students to demonstrate their individual strengths and develop their potential. The rigorous college-preparatory program, which includes honors courses in each discipline in addition to electives, prepares students for the college and university setting.
The curriculum—taught in small, seminar-style classes—emphasizes methods of inquiry as well as written and oral expression. Students continue to develop and refine their skills and knowledge in the arts. They are also required to complete a computer science requirement and engage in community service.
In an atmosphere and physical setting that promote both independence and responsibility, students can elect to take honors and independent study options that align with their interests and goals.
Specialized Programs for Individual Interests
Dual Enrollment Program
Eleventh and twelfth graders are encouraged to participate in Dual Enrollment at Valencia Community College, Lake Sumter State College, or the University of Central Florida for one or two classes per semester. Students must have a B average or above to register and apply to this program. Interested in another school? Just let us know and we can check to see if we can work with your school.Small, seminar-style classes emphasizing discussion and inquiry.
This experience enhances their college admissions process and ensures their capacity to meet the challenges of future schooling. Crenshaw Academy has utilized this Dual Enrollment program with great success for juniors and seniors. It's awe-inspiring to watch how our students grow and are instilled with confidence and maturity during this time.
The individual attention students receive at Crenshaw Academy prepares them exceptionally well for this transition to college-level work.
Independent Study Options
What if your child has special strengths or interests they want to explore further? Crenshaw Academy meets with teachers, parents, and students to assist in finding or providing resources that can enrich or extend the curriculum.
We have the option for older students to set up an Independent Study where they can earn credits for work in areas that may not be available through our regular curriculum. This flexibility exemplifies our commitment to individualized learning—when a student's interests extend beyond standard offerings, we create pathways for them to pursue those passions academically.
Academic Support Beyond the Classroom
Can your child receive academic support beyond the classroom if needed? Absolutely. Crenshaw Academy has an in-house tutoring program to provide support in organization, study skills, and content area concepts and curriculum.
This additional layer of individual attention ensures that students who need extra help can receive it without the stigma or inconvenience of seeking outside tutoring services. Our teachers already know your child, understand their learning style, and can provide targeted support that builds on classroom instruction.
Accreditation and Recognition
Crenshaw Academy's commitment to academic excellence is accredited 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)
We are also approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and work with Step Up For Students Scholarship programs, providing additional opportunities for families. Visit our tuition page for more information on costs.
A Philosophy Centered on the Individual
The Crenshaw philosophy engenders respectful and collaborative relationships throughout the community, at home, and at school. From a young age, we focus on nurturing the child's capacity for intellectual inquiry, analysis, problem-solving, and independence of thought, as well as mastery of basic skills.
Debate and discussion, substantial writing and reading, questioning, and experimenting are basic modes of learning at our school. This approach requires the individual attention that only small class sizes can provide.
Teaching begins with the ability to make learning the antithesis of a chore. At Crenshaw Academy, our students learn and, more importantly, learn to love learning. This transformation happens because each child receives the personalized education they deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Individualized Learning at Crenshaw Academy
How does individualized learning differ from traditional classroom instruction?
At Crenshaw Academy, we don't force children to fit into predetermined programs and standards—we work with each child. Teachers have the time and capacity to identify individual strengths, address specific challenges, and adjust teaching methods to match how each student learns best. In traditional classrooms with 25-30+ students, this level of personalization is nearly impossible.
Can students pursue interests beyond the standard curriculum?
Yes. We offer Independent Study options for older students to earn credits in areas that may not be available through our regular curriculum. We also meet with teachers, parents, and students to find or provide resources that can enrich or extend learning based on individual interests and strengths.
Is tutoring available if my child needs extra academic support?
Absolutely. Crenshaw Academy has an in-house tutoring program to provide support in organization, study skills, and content area concepts. Because our teachers already know your child and understand their learning style, they can provide targeted support that builds directly on classroom instruction.
What special programs does Crenshaw Academy offer?
We offer an Entrepreneurial Program for Upper School students interested in international business and business management. We also encourage qualified juniors and seniors (B average or above) to participate in Dual Enrollment at Valencia Community College or the University of Central Florida, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school.
Where do Crenshaw Academy graduates attend college?
Our graduates have been accepted to prestigious universities worldwide, including Princeton University, Stanford University, Georgetown University, UCLA, University of Florida, University of Miami, Penn State University, Rollins College, Tulane University, and many others. Several graduates have already completed their Master's degrees or entered medical school.
How do I schedule a tour of Crenshaw Academy?
Registration and tours must be completed in person or virtually. To request an appointment with an Admissions Advisor, please visit our contact page or call us directly. We're located at 2342 Hempel Avenue in Gotha, just a short drive from Maitland.
Visit our FAQ page for more information.
Schedule Your Campus Tour
Discover how individual attention, small class sizes, and personalized education can transform your child's academic experience. Families throughout Central Florida, including Maitland, have trusted Crenshaw Academy for nearly three decades. We invite you to see why.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and discover whether our approach aligns with your family's educational needs and goals.
