Families searching for a Winter Garden STEM school want a program that builds strong skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics from the earliest grades through graduation. The Crenshaw Academy is a secular, accredited K-12 college preparatory school in nearby Gotha that integrates inquiry-based science, hands-on mathematics, and technology into every grade level. Small classes give students room to ask questions, test ideas, and build the confidence to take on demanding coursework in high school and college.
This page explains how STEM learning works at The Crenshaw Academy, what students study at each stage, and how your family can take the next step toward enrollment.
Why Families Are Prioritizing STEM Education
Interest in STEM learning reflects real changes in the job market. STEM employment is projected to grow 8.1 percent from 2024 to 2034, compared with 2.7 percent for non-STEM occupations.
Growth is especially strong in technology-driven fields. Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 28.5 percent from 2024 to 2034, and actuary employment is projected to grow 21.8 percent over the same period. Employment of data scientists is projected to increase 33.5 percent during that decade.
Science Programs Built on Inquiry
At The Crenshaw Academy, science is taught as a process of investigation. Students observe, ask questions, experiment, and explain what they find. This approach reflects guidance from the National Science Teaching Association, which recommends that children have early opportunities to observe phenomena, engage in problem solving, and explain their thinking..
Lower School Science (K-5)
For Winter Garden families comparing science programs, the Lower School at The Crenshaw Academy introduces inquiry-based science from Kindergarten onward. With a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, teachers can guide each child through experiments and discussions.
Lower School science includes:
- Hands-on experiments: Inquiry-based activities that connect classroom concepts to the real world
- Environmental education: Lessons that help students understand and care for the natural world
- Technology in scientific exploration: Digital tools integrated into science lessons
- Science as a Kindergarten special: Science is part of the rotating afternoon enrichment in Kindergarten, alongside Spanish, Art, Music, and Social Studies
Middle School Science (6-8)
The Middle School program is designed to move students from concrete thinking toward abstract reasoning. Science classes emphasize inquiry-based learning, hands-on experimentation, and real-world application of scientific concepts. Small, discussion-based classes let students practice explaining their reasoning.
Upper School Science (9-12)
In the Upper School, students study the physical and life sciences with a focus on inquiry and application. Honors courses are available in every discipline, and students may pursue independent study for additional credit in areas beyond the standard curriculum.
Elective offerings change from year to year based on student interest and faculty expertise. Past and current science-related electives have included:
- Zoology
- Forensic Science
- Botany
The Crenshaw Academy is also open to student suggestions, and several electives exist because students asked for them.
Mathematics From Kindergarten Through Graduation
Mathematics is a daily priority at every level of The Crenshaw Academy. The curriculum builds skills in a clear progression:
- Kindergarten: A morning math block uses hands-on activities, games, and manipulatives to build confidence in counting, number sense, patterns, shapes, and early problem-solving.
- Grades 1-5: Concrete, hands-on learning develops abstract reasoning, problem-solving strategies, and real-world application of mathematical concepts.
- Middle School: Students build from foundational skills toward higher-order problem-solving and reasoning.
- Upper School: Advanced coursework builds toward honors options and college-level readiness.
Younger students also use IXL throughout the week for individualized math practice. The results show in standardized testing: The Crenshaw Academy ranked above average statewide in both English and Math on the PSAT 8/9.
Technology Education Integrated Into Daily Learning
Winter Garden families looking for technology education for their students will find that technology is part of the regular school day at The Crenshaw Academy.
Key elements of technology learning include:
- School-issued laptops: A laptop or iPad is included in annual enrollment fees for every enrolled student (Tuition and Fees)
- Technology across subjects: Lower School students experience technology integrated across all subject areas
- Middle School Computer coursework: Digital literacy and technology skills are built into coursework
- Personalized learning platforms: IXL and Lexia support individualized practice in math and reading
- Media production: The Video Editing elective and the Media Club give students hands-on experience with content creation and visual media
Dual Enrollment for Advanced STEM Students
Students ready for college-level math and science can begin earning college credit early. Dual enrollment is available to eligible students beginning in 6th grade. Juniors and seniors are encouraged to take classes at Valencia Community College or the University of South Florida and may take up to a full course load each semester.
To qualify, students need:
- A B average or above
- Qualifying scores on the College Board SAT or the PERT
- Parent permission
Benefits for STEM-focused students include:
- College credit earned early: Students arrive at university with credits already completed
- College experience before college: Students build the independence and time management skills universities expect
- Stronger applications: Dual enrollment shows admissions officers real academic ambition
A Secular, Academically Driven Approach
The Crenshaw Academy is a non-religious school, and its curriculum is academically driven. Families from all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome. Science classes emphasize evidence, critical thinking, and methods of inquiry, and Upper School seminar-style classes focus on solving complex problems.
Accreditation and College Outcomes
The Crenshaw Academy holds five accreditations, giving families confidence that coursework meets independently verified standards:
- SACS/CASI/COGNIA
- Association of Independent Schools of Florida (AISF)
- Middle States Association
- Accreditation International
- National Council for Private School Accreditation (NCPSA)
Graduates have been accepted to universities across Florida, the country, and the world, including Stanford, Princeton, and the University of Florida. Alumni have gone on to careers in medicine, film and entertainment, professional athletics, and more. A parent wrote in a review on Niche: "Crenshaw has provided both of my children with the knowledge and confidence to allow them to be successful in university." Explore where alumni go on the After Crenshaw page.
A Convenient Option for West Orange County Families
The Crenshaw Academy is located in Gotha, a short drive from Winter Garden. Families in the surrounding West Orange County communities can access a full K-12 college preparatory program, from Kindergarten math blocks to Upper School dual enrollment, at one school.
How to Get Started
The enrollment process is straightforward, and in-person and virtual appointments are available. Here is how it works:
- Schedule a tour: Visit the campus, meet administration, and ask your questions.
- Attend a shadow day: Your child spends time at the school to experience a typical day.
- Submit your documents: Provide the required enrollment documents and forms.
- Complete enrollment: Enrollment is confirmed once all documents are received and the registration and first tuition fees are paid.
Full details are available on the How to Apply page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Crenshaw Academy offer STEM learning in every grade?
Yes. Science, mathematics, and technology are part of the curriculum from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Lower School science is inquiry-based and hands-on, Middle School science emphasizes experimentation and real-world application, and Upper School students study the physical and life sciences with honors options.
What science electives are available in the Upper School?
Elective offerings change based on student interest and faculty expertise. Past and current offerings have included Zoology, Forensic Science, and Botany. Students may also suggest new courses and pursue independent study for additional credit.
Do students receive a laptop?
Yes. A school-issued laptop or iPad is included in the annual enrollment fees for every enrolled student.
Can advanced students take college-level math and science courses?
Yes. Dual enrollment is available to eligible students beginning in 6th grade. Juniors and seniors with a B average or above are encouraged to take courses at Valencia Community College or the University of South Florida.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio?
The Lower School maintains a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, and the Middle and Upper School maintain a 15:1 ratio.
Is The Crenshaw Academy a religious school?
No. The Crenshaw Academy is a secular, non-religious school with an academically driven curriculum that welcomes families from all backgrounds.
Take the Next Step Toward a Strong STEM Foundation
The Crenshaw Academy offers families a K-12 path that combines inquiry-based science, steady growth in mathematics, everyday technology use, and the individual attention that small classes make possible.
The best way to see the program is in person. Contact The Crenshaw Academy today to schedule a tour, ask questions about STEM learning at any grade level, and find out whether the school is the right fit for your child.
