Families in and around the Lake Buena Vista area have access to one of Central Florida's most distinctive private education options: The Crenshaw Academy. As an accredited, secular, college-preparatory school serving students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, The Crenshaw Academy has been shaping curious, capable young learners since 1997. Whether you're searching for college prep near Lake Buena Vista, a private school with smaller classes, or a rigorous academic program that truly sees your child as an individual, our approach was built with families like yours in mind.
A College-Preparatory Education Built on Individual Attention
At The Crenshaw Academy, the belief is straightforward: every student learns differently, and every student deserves a program designed around their needs. Our K-12 curriculum is challenging, forward-thinking, and flexible, and built to help students from a range of backgrounds and with a range of talents reach new levels of academic accomplishment.
Student-to-Teacher Ratios at The Crenshaw Academy
- Lower School (K–5): 12:1
- Middle School (Grades 6–8): 15:1
- Upper School (Grades 9–12): 15:1
These ratios allow our faculty to move at the right pace for each learner, challenge students who are ready to go further, and provide support to students who need more time to master a concept, without either group getting lost in the shuffle.
What Families Are Looking For
Parents exploring private education in this part of Central Florida often come to us with similar priorities. They want an academically serious environment that still feels warm and personable. They want their child challenged without being overwhelmed. And they want to know that the school they choose is genuinely invested in what happens after graduation.
The Crenshaw Academy was designed with exactly those priorities in mind.
Our Core Academic Philosophy
Our educational philosophy emphasizes the skills students need to think, communicate, and problem-solve at a high level. In small, seminar-style classes, students develop:
- Analytical reasoning and debate
- Written and oral expression across disciplines
- Inquiry-based approaches to mathematics, science, and the humanities
- Independent study and self-directed learning habits
- Community service and civic awareness
- Computer science literacy
For younger students, our program emphasizes experiential learning and significant individualization within an integrated curriculum. As students move into the upper grades, the program expands to include both required courses and electives, with honors courses available in all disciplines.
Programs That Prepare Students for What Comes Next
The Crenshaw Academy works to ensure that every graduate is ready to succeed at a competitive college or university. That preparation begins in Kindergarten and grows more intentional with every grade level.
Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Juniors and seniors at The Crenshaw Academy have the opportunity to participate in Dual Enrollment at Valencia College or the University of Central Florida. Students must maintain a B average or above to qualify. This program gives upper-school students the experience of genuine college coursework before they graduate, strengthening their admissions profile and building the confidence that comes with succeeding at the next level.
Honors and Independent Study
At the upper-school level, students can pursue honors courses in all disciplines and elect independent study options in areas that may fall outside the standard curriculum. This flexibility is a meaningful advantage for students with specialized interests, accelerated learning goals, or unique academic strengths.
Physical Education and Athletics
The Crenshaw Academy has partnered with D2 Futsal to deliver structured physical education classes across all grade levels:
- Elementary students participate every day
- Students in Grades 6–8 participate every day
An after-school soccer program through D2 Futsal is also available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, providing an additional outlet for students who want to stay active and engaged beyond the school day.
Accreditation You Can Trust
Choosing a private school is a significant decision, and accreditation matters. The Crenshaw Academy holds accreditation from five recognized organizations.
Our accrediting bodies include:
- SACS / CASI / COGNIA
- Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF)
- Middle States Association
- Accreditation International
- National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)
This multi-body accreditation means our program has been independently evaluated and meets the standards expected of high-quality K-12 institutions. It also means that credits earned at The Crenshaw Academy are recognized by colleges and universities, and that our graduates enter the application process from a position of academic credibility.
The Crenshaw Academy is also approved through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which allows us to enroll international students and issue the I-20 forms required for F-1 student visas.
A Secular, Inclusive Learning Environment
Families searching for private school near Lake Buena Vista frequently ask about the school's religious affiliation. The Crenshaw Academy is a secular institution. We welcome students from all backgrounds, faiths, and family structures. Our school is grounded in academic excellence, respect, and a commitment to developing the whole child — not in religious instruction.
This makes The Crenshaw Academy an excellent option for families who want the personalized attention and high standards of a private education without a faith-based curriculum.
How Crenshaw Graduates Succeed After High School
The ultimate measure of a college-preparatory education is where it takes students next. Crenshaw graduates have been accepted to some of the most respected universities in Florida and across the country, including:
- University of Florida
- University of Central Florida
- Florida State University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Georgetown University
- University of Southern California
- Rollins College
- University of Miami
- Penn State University
- Tulane University
- Michigan State University
Several Crenshaw alumni have also gone on to graduate and professional programs, including medical school. Our After Crenshaw page offers a fuller picture of where our graduates land and the paths they pursue. Visit our testimonials page to see reviews from graduates, who have won over $300,000 worth of scholarships this year alone!
Step Up For Students Scholarship Acceptance
Private school education is an investment, and The Crenshaw Academy is committed to making that investment accessible to as many families as possible. We are an approved Step Up For Students scholarship school, which means families who have been awarded a Florida Tax Credit (FTC) or Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO) scholarship can apply those funds toward tuition at The Crenshaw Academy.
Florida's school choice scholarship programs have expanded significantly in recent years. As of the 2023-2024 school year, income restrictions for FES-EO were eliminated — meaning any Florida-resident student eligible for public K-12 enrollment may apply, regardless of household income. Priority funding goes to lower-income households first, but all families are encouraged to apply.
For detailed information on tuition and current fees, visit our Tuition and Fees page, or reach out to our admissions team directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is The Crenshaw Academy located?
The Crenshaw Academy is located at 2342 Hempel Avenue, Gotha, FL 34734 — easily accessible to families throughout the greater Orlando area, including the Lake Buena Vista corridor. The school is a short drive from communities in Orange and Osceola counties.
What grades does The Crenshaw Academy serve?
We serve students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, making it possible for families to enroll their children early and keep them in the same academic community all the way through high school graduation.
Is The Crenshaw Academy a religious school?
No. The Crenshaw Academy is a secular, non-denominational private school. We welcome students of all backgrounds and do not incorporate religious instruction into our curriculum.
Does The Crenshaw Academy accept Florida school choice scholarships?
Yes. The Crenshaw Academy is an approved Step Up For Students scholarship school and accepts the Florida Tax Credit (FTC), Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO), and PEP. Please contact our admissions team to discuss your scholarship status and how it applies to enrollment.
How do I apply to The Crenshaw Academy?
Enrollment at The Crenshaw Academy is completed in person or virtually. Families begin by requesting an appointment with an Admissions Advisor, then completing a campus tour and meeting with administration. All required documents and a registration payment must be submitted to confirm enrollment. Visit our How to Apply page or contact us to schedule your appointment.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
Lower School maintains a 12:1 ratio, while Middle School and Upper School both maintain a 15:1 ratio. These intentionally small class sizes are central to the Crenshaw teaching model.
Does The Crenshaw Academy offer dual enrollment?
Yes. Students in 6th grade or above who meet qualifications and maintain a B average or above may participate in Dual Enrollment at Valencia College or the University of Central Florida for one or two classes per semester.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're looking for a private school near Lake Buena Vista that offers genuine college preparation, small classes, experienced instruction, and a secular, inclusive environment, The Crenshaw Academy is worth a visit. Our admissions team is happy to walk you through our program, answer your questions, and help determine whether our school is the right fit for your child.
Contact The Crenshaw Academy today to schedule your campus tour or virtual appointment.
