Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat to know about our boutique virtual private school.

What kind of student thrives here?

We serve the student whose potential is being capped by their age rather than their ability. Students who are stalled by the standard pace. The ones who grasp a concept the first time and are forced to idle while the rest of the room catches up. Students receiving discipline for behavior that is actually a symptom of cognitive misalignment. Students who crave momentum and meaningful progress, not just "busy work" to fill the time, will thrive in our community.

What kind of family thrives here?

We're for families who value enrichment and adventure. You thrive here if your goal is to nurture your child's full potential without the pressure or pace of traditional schooling. You belong here if you want school to enrich your life instead of overwhelming it with stress or confusion. Our community is built for families who want their children to grow with confidence, security, and a real love for learning.

Who is this not for?

This is not for students who struggle in live, participatory instruction. This is not for families looking for a passive, self-paced program where their child works alone. Our model is synchronous, Socratic, and demanding. Students must show up, engage, and do the work.

What do you believe about acceleration?

We believe acceleration is the appropriate response to exceptional readiness. It is not about speed. When a student has truly mastered material, the responsible and ethical action is to move them forward with purpose. If a student is capable, we fail in our role as coaches when we hold them back, and we are wrong to stall their progress simply because it is easier for adults to manage the load or the bureaucracy. Our commitment is to honor each student's potential and guide them as far as their readiness allows.

What do you believe about rigor?

We believe rigor should be attainable. Hard work should lead somewhere. Our students complete challenging coursework, but they are never set up to fail. Structure that feels safe. Rigor that feels possible. That is the environment we build.

What do you believe about community?

We believe high-ability students need a tribe. Too often, these students learn to dim their light for the sake of classroom management. True community is found when they are finally surrounded by peers who match their pace and intensity. We believe relationships should be a stable, long-term anchor that allows students to be witty, intense, and unapologetically authentic. For many of our students, this is the first time they have been in a room where they fit in simply by being themselves. Community is not just about making friends; it is about finding the intellectual peers who make it safe to be your true self.

What happens when a student struggles?

We do not give up on our students. Once admitted, a scholar is never removed from the program. If a student struggles, we adjust. We provide additional support. We move them to one-on-one instruction if needed. We made a commitment when we accepted them, and we will honor it.

You are a new school. Why should I trust you?

Because this model has been tested. The curriculum works. The systems work. The results are real. We are also a registered Florida nonprofit with 501(c)(3) status, legally structured for transparency and accountability, with a Board of Directors and published bylaws.

What if it does not work out?

If your family needs to transition, we support you fully. We provide a complete transcript and portfolio documenting all completed coursework. We communicate directly with your child's next school to ensure their progress is recognized. Our curriculum aligns with recognized standards, so transitions are smooth. We want your child to succeed, even if that path leads elsewhere.

Are you a religious school?

Accelerate H.S. and Accelerate Launch are secular programs. Accelerate Faith is an optional prayer and King James bible study add-on for families wishing to incorporate their education into a life centered on faith in Jesus Christ. Accommodations are also made for students of other faiths and spiritualities, as discussed with your family during academic consultation, in accordance with applicable state laws.

How is this different from Florida Virtual School?

Florida Virtual School is free, asynchronous, and self-paced. Students work through modules on their own. We are live, synchronous, and Socratic. Our students are in class together, discussing ideas with faculty and peers in real time. The experience is fundamentally different.

How is this different from a homeschool co-op?

We are a registered private school with dedicated faculty, a structured curriculum, and a clear pathway to AP coursework and college credit. We handle instruction, assessment, and documentation. Parents participate as partners, not as primary instructors.

How is this different from enrichment programs?

Enrichment programs supplement core education. We provide core education. Our scholars can earn actual high school credit, complete AP coursework, and build a transcript that opens doors. This is not after-school tutoring or weekend math club. This is a full academic program designed to replace conventional schooling with something better.

Why virtual?

A virtual classroom allows us to connect students based on ability, not geography. It provides a sanctuary where the focus is strictly on learning, avoiding the inefficiency and unpredictability of a physical campus. You do not have to compromise your child's physical safety to get a world-class education. This model reclaims your life: no commutes, no wasted transitions, and no busy work. Just three hours of focused instruction, then freedom to do the things that truly matter.

Why a four-year commitment?

We believe deep learning requires deep roots. When students are shuffled every year, relationships remain superficial and progress resets. By keeping our cohorts together, we skip the surface-level introductions and get straight to the work. This consistency allows our coaches to understand a student's trajectory over years, not months, giving us the flexibility to prioritize lasting gains over short-term metrics. Students thrive here because they are free to struggle and experiment in front of peers who trust them and coaches who truly know their history.

Why "coach"?

We choose the term "coach" because words shape mindset. Rather than imply that we hold the knowledge and dispense it to a passive mind, "coach" reminds us that the power lies within the student. We are not gatekeepers bestowing a gift; we are trainers developing a skill. We stand beside the student, not above them, providing the strategy, feedback, and correction they need to master the material themselves.

What is your non-discrimination policy?

Acceleration Academics admits students of any race, color, gender, orientation, nationality, and ethnicity to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded to students at the school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, orientation, national and ethnic origin, or religious background in the administration of our educational and admission policies, financial assistance, or other programs.

What makes your approach different from conventional gifted programs?

Most gifted programs prioritize speed over mastery. Students skip coursework and accumulate gaps. We take the opposite approach: we believe in mastering fundamentals, not bypassing them. Our scholars complete rigorous work at an accelerated pace because their foundations are solid. The result is genuine readiness, not fragile credentials.

Why should I choose a boutique school over a larger institution?

Large institutions optimize for scale. We optimize for your child. With cohorts of eight to twelve students, we know every scholar personally. Faculty understand their strengths, challenges, and aspirations. When families have questions, they reach decision-makers directly. This level of attention is only possible because we remain intentionally small.

When should a prospective student apply?

Applications open in January and close April 30th. Our admissions process involves multiple steps, so families benefit from starting early enough to move through each stage without rushing.

What are the admissions deadlines?

Applications are open January through April 30th. Decisions by May 15th. Motivated candidates who meet one or more metrics will receive conditional offers and have until July 1st to fulfill remaining requirements.

Does applying earlier improve chances of acceptance?

No. Admission is determined solely by whether a student meets our metrics. Every candidate who qualifies is admitted, regardless of when their application arrived.

Do you offer rolling admissions?

No. A fixed admissions cycle allows us to evaluate each applicant with care and intention, then build cohorts of scholars who will learn alongside each other for four years.

When can students expect an admissions decision?

By May 15th. Candidates meeting all metrics receive full admission. Those showing strong potential with gaps receive conditional offers and have until July 1st to meet outstanding requirements. We believe in giving motivated families a real chance.

Is there an application fee?

There are no fees to apply for any program.

What entrance or standardized tests are required?

None. Standardized tests measure what students have been exposed to; our metrics measure what they are ready for. We use our own assessments tailored to each program track. For Launch Prep: multiplication facts for 1, 2, 5, 10, and 11 at any pace with 80% accuracy, plus oral reading fluency benchmark of 100 words per minute. For High School Prep: multiplication facts for 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12 at any pace with 80% accuracy, plus oral reading fluency benchmark of 150 words per minute. Both tracks require a written response using RACE format (Restate, Answer, Cite, Explain), an academic work sample demonstrating need for enrichment, and interview scores of "excellent" or above for both student and guardian.

What are the minimum GPA or academic performance requirements?

GPA is not a factor. Grades reflect compliance and opportunity as much as ability. Our metrics assess foundational competencies that predict success here: multiplication fluency, reading fluency benchmarks, evidence-based writing, and demonstrated need for challenge beyond conventional settings.

Do you accept applications from students outside Florida or the United States?

Yes. Exceptional students exist everywhere. Our virtual model and multiple instructional windows accommodate families across time zones, and we hold all applicants to the same standards regardless of geography. We will work with families to establish protocols to adhere to location-specific requirements on curriculum, testing and financial aid.

What grade levels are eligible to apply?

All students enter our flagship program in 5th grade. This is a four-year journey, and scholars remain with their cohort through completion. Students who enter together grow together, building lasting bonds with peers who share their commitment to excellence. For families with students in grades 3 or 4, our Launch Prep program prepares them to enter the flagship program with confidence. Students grades 6-8 may join individual courses on a case-by-case basis. Schedule a consultation to learn more about options available to your family.

Are there prerequisite courses or programs?

No. We care about readiness, not pedigree. Our admissions metrics assess that directly. We seek students with intellectual curiosity, foundational skills, and the disposition for rigorous study.

Do you have a waitlist?

Because our cohort size is strictly capped at twelve scholars to maintain instructional quality, spaces are limited. Once a grade-level cohort is full, admitted students are placed on a waitlist for the next available opening or until a new cohort can be formed. We encourage families to apply early in the window to secure their placement.

Must students be formally identified as gifted to apply?

No. Formal gifted identification is not required. We recognize that many high-potential students have never undergone formal testing. Instead, we utilize our own admissions metrics to identify readiness and drive, regardless of external labels. Our assessment simply ensures that your student possesses the foundational baseline necessary to thrive in our community.

What are the requirements for international students?

The same metrics apply to all applicants. Our four instructional windows span the global day, making participation possible from nearly any time zone.

Is a student interview required?

Yes. Both the student and at least one guardian participate. Beyond academics, we assess alignment between family values and our culture. We seek families who value attainable rigor, cultivate scholar-level respect, and understand that autonomy is earned through demonstrated responsibility. Kind students who work hard deserve to be surrounded by peers who share those values. Our interview process helps us build compatible cohorts.

What are the tuition costs and fees?

Our comprehensive fee structure is available on our Tuition Schedule page. In addition to Florida Choice Scholarships, we are equipped to process Purchase Orders (POs) and funding from various external educational programs. If you are utilizing a unique grant or third-party payer, our administrative team will work directly with you to verify eligibility and facilitate the process whenever possible.

Do you accept Florida Choice Scholarships?

Yes. We accept the Florida Tax Credit Scholarship (FTC) and Family Empowerment Scholarship for Educational Options (FES-EO), both administered through Step Up for Students. These scholarships are available to all Florida K-12 students regardless of household income. We also accept the Family Empowerment Scholarship for Unique Abilities (FES-UA) for eligible students. Scholarship availability and amounts are determined by the State of Florida.

Are payment plans available?

Yes. For direct-pay families, we offer monthly (twelve payments), semester (four payments), and annual payment options. Families making annual payments will receive a 10% tuition discount. Scholarship families receive funds quarterly as distributed by Step Up for Students. Payment details are finalized during enrollment.

Is there a deposit?

Yes, the enrollment deposit equals the first month’s payment. However, this deposit is waived for scholarship recipients once they have been approved.

When is the deposit due?

The deposit must be received by July 1 to secure cohort placement for fall. Scholarship students are placed after scholarship approval.

How is the sibling discount calculated?

We value the commitment of self-pay families. To expand accessibility for households enrolling two or more scholars without state aid, we apply a 30% discount to the total tuition invoice. This reduction applies to the entire family balance, meaning the first student is discounted as well, not just the additional siblings.

How are admissions decisions communicated? Is there an appeals process?

Decisions arrive via email by May 15th and include detailed reasoning. The correspondence outlines any available appeals process.

Can a student reapply for a future term if not admitted?

For our flagship program, students enter in 5th grade only. If not admitted, families may explore our Launch Prep program for grades 3 and 4, which prepares students for flagship entry. Students in grade 6-8 may enroll in single subject courses on a case-by-case basis. Our tutoring programs also offer an alternative pathway to academic enrichment.

How do I withdraw my child from their current school?

Once you have received your acceptance letter and signed your enrollment agreement with us, you will formally withdraw from your current school. Under Florida law, you do not need permission to withdraw; you simply need to notify. We will then send a formal Records Request to transfer your student's cumulative file.

Can my child participate in local school sports?

Yes. Under Florida Statute 1006.15, students enrolled in private schools that do not offer a specific sport are eligible to try out and participate in that sport at their zoned public school. We will sign the necessary FHSAA forms to verify your student's enrollment and academic eligibility.

How do I get a transcript mid-year?

Transcript requests are submitted by email to transcripts@accelerationacademics.org.

What support is provided for Conditional Admission?

Families have regular check-ins to monitor progress toward the July 1st deadline. We provide the results of all assessments so students know exactly where their gaps are and what needs to be done to close them.

Are siblings given priority in admissions?

No. All students must meet the same metrics. However, we recognize the investment families make: those enrolling two or more students and paying full tuition without scholarship assistance receive a 30% reduction on their total invoice.

How can families speak with an admissions advisor before applying?

Every family participates in a personal consultation before receiving application access. This meeting is required, and no exceptions will be made. We believe meaningful relationships begin with meaningful dialogue, and we want to understand your child before you begin the application.

What is the mission of the school?

To create conditions where students advance according to their true capacity, unconstrained by conventional pacing. Our scholars complete rigorous, high-school-level coursework that prepares them for Advanced Placement examinations, dual enrollment, or a home education diploma petition. Our founding pilot cohort completed AP courses and obtained early college credit before entering 9th grade.

What is the class size?

Eight to twelve scholars. Small enough for genuine individual attention, large enough for rich intellectual exchange.

What are the teacher qualifications?

We set a standard that goes beyond basic certification. We require our faculty to hold advanced degrees in their subject areas or demonstrate significant professional contributions in their field of instruction. Additionally, our leadership team possesses specialized training in gifted education, Socratic methodology, and virtual instruction. We prioritize educators who truly understand the accelerated learner and can adapt to individual needs. All faculty undergo comprehensive background screening in compliance with Florida law.

What is the mathematics progression?

Our mathematics curriculum is designed to reach Pre-Calculus by 8th grade, positioning scholars for Calculus in 9th grade. The progression moves through Pre-Algebra / Algebra I (combined), Geometry, Algebra II and Precalculus with Trigonometry. Pacing is mastery-based: students advance when they demonstrate proficiency, not when the calendar dictates. This is one of our core promises.

What is the science curriculum?

Science instruction integrates life science, physical science, and earth science with increasing depth across the four-year program. We emphasize scientific reasoning, laboratory methodology, and preparation for high school honors and AP science coursework. By 8th grade, scholars are prepared for Biology, Chemistry, or Physics at the high school level.

How many AP courses will students complete?

Three: AP Human Geography, AP World History, and AP US History. This sequence builds geographic and historical literacy progressively, giving scholars the contextual knowledge to engage meaningfully with complex ideas.

Why are humanities the only AP subjects offered?

We intentionally limit AP offerings to ensure students can balance rigor with well-being. AP humanities provide a strong introduction to college-level work that fits well within our students' current capacity. For English and Science, our standard advanced courses provide the necessary foundation without the excessive workload of an AP curriculum. In Math, the AP track begins with Precalculus; we are currently assessing the new AP Precalculus course for future implementation.

What teaching methods are used?

Socratic inquiry and hands-on application. We embrace variety rather than dogma. Scholars develop intellectual flexibility across multiple modalities.

How does grading work and translate to transcripts?

We track mastery on a 4.0 scale. A "3" represents proficiency (meeting the standard), and a "4" represents exceeding it (mastery). For high school transcripts and college admissions, these convert directly to traditional letter grades: a 3.0 to 4.0 mastery level translates to an 'A' (4.0 GPA), ensuring our scholars remain competitive for scholarships and university admissions. We provide both 4.0 and 5.0 GPAs to account for AP course weighting.

If you tailor the pace to each child, how does a cohort move together?

It begins with selection: cohorts are grouped with extreme precision based on readiness metrics, ensuring students start at a compatible baseline. Inside the classroom, we utilize flexible grouping to allow for review or deeper exploration as needed. If a student struggles to maintain the cohort's momentum, we deploy targeted interventions, including small-group remediation or 1-on-1 instruction, aligned with MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) and UDL (Universal Design for Learning) frameworks to help them regain their footing without stalling the group.

Can my child work ahead and finish early?

No. The courses are meticulously designed to fill the allotted time. As the nature of the cohorts is collaborative and enriched, the students move at the same pace. This is the advantage of keeping students who are scoring at the same level together rather than mixing levels. We prioritize depth and collaboration over rushing.

What happens if my child falls behind?

We use a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). If a student misses benchmarks, we intervene immediately, well before grade reports. Tier 1 is in-class redirection. Tier 2 is mandatory Friday small-group tutoring. Tier 3 is daily 1:1 intervention sessions with faculty. We maintain our standards, but we increase the support until the scholar clears the hurdle.

How do I access grades in real-time?

All parents receive a Canvas Observer account. You can log in via the web or the Canvas Parent App to see assignment submissions, teacher feedback, and mastery levels in real-time.

How do you handle academic integrity?

We utilize standard tools like TurnItIn to scan for AI and plagiarism, but our response to findings is unique. We do not view academic dishonesty as a disciplinary crisis or a moral failing; rather, we view it as a diagnostic signal. Often, what looks like cheating is actually a student attempting research without the proper tools or support, which we view as a failure in our instruction, not their character. Instead of punishment or embarrassment, we refer the student to a closely monitored, supported second attempt to ensure they have what they need to succeed honestly.

Is there homework?

This is a peculiar question for an online school, because the class is at home. There is no work outside the structured school day. Socratic methods and peer interaction ensure meaningful learning happens within instructional hours. The rest of the day belongs to wellness, extracurriculars, and family.

How are accommodations handled?

We trust parents. If your child needs accommodations, mention them during your consultation. We do not require an IEP or formal documentation. A parent's understanding of their child is sufficient for us. We will make those accommodations as effortlessly as possible for your family. Universal Design for Learning is embedded in everything we do.

Do you support twice-exceptional (2e) learners?

Yes. Many gifted students also have learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. Our small cohort size, individualized support, and UDL framework make us well-suited to serve 2e learners. Discuss your child's specific needs during the consultation. We trust your judgment and will work with you to provide appropriate support without bureaucratic hurdles.

What does a typical week look like?

Three hours daily, Monday through Thursday: integrated English and Social Studies, Science, and Math. Fridays are for independent study, mentor consultations, and peer connection.

What cohort timeslots are available?

We offer four instructional windows: 6:30 to 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 2:00 to 5:00 PM, and 5:30 to 8:30 PM. All times are EST. Families choose what works for their location.

What is the academic calendar?

The 2026-2027 academic year runs from the first Monday of August to the last Weekday in June, totaling approximately 40 instructional weeks. We observe major holidays and provide extended breaks in November (Thanksgiving week), March (Spring Break), and the full month of December. View the full schedule at accelerationacademics.org/calendar.

What is your attendance policy?

Attendance is critical to our mission. Our Socratic, discussion-based classes depend on presence and participation. Missed material must be made up promptly.

What is the policy on absences?

We respect parental autonomy. We do not dictate when your family can or cannot travel, nor do we distinguish between "excused" and "unexcused" absences. The calendar is yours to manage. However, the pace of our curriculum is demanding. If a student misses instruction and falls behind, the natural consequence is an academic deficit. In those instances, we will immediately activate our intervention protocols (UDL and MTSS) to close the gap and restore mastery.

What happens on the first day of school?

Day 1 is about establishing culture. We focus on ensuring every student feels welcome, equipped, and confident in the technology. We handle tech checks, platform navigation, and cohort introductions, allowing students to learn the rituals of our community without the pressure of academic deliverables. It is a day designed to set the stage for a successful year.

How do students build friendships in a virtual environment?

Small cohorts and Socratic methods generate sustained, meaningful peer interaction. Scholars collaborate through discussion and problem-solving, forging bonds with classmates who share their intellectual curiosity. These are friendships built on mutual respect and shared purpose. Outside school, families pursue local extracurriculars.

Are there virtual clubs or community activity recommendations?

Scholars may form their own organizations, developing governance and leadership skills along the way. We sponsor such activities outside instructional hours and share community partnerships as they develop.

What formal programs exist for students to develop leadership and governance skills?

Leadership is integrated into the cohort structure through rotating discussion lead roles, collaborative project management, and the formation of student-led organizations. We emphasize servant leadership and intellectual honesty. We provide weekly coaching on ethical decision-making and self-governance, cultivating the maturity and character expected of top-tier institution students.

How do students participate in competitive academic organizations?

We actively support and encourage participation in all major academic competitions. We help scholars integrate competition preparation into their Friday independent study time. We facilitate the registration process for events like MathCounts, Science Olympiad, and various writing and debate contests, leveraging our virtual platform to connect students with resources and coordinate group participation when possible.

Is there a parent community?

Yes. We facilitate parent connections through virtual coffee chats, a private communication channel, and events at the annual retreat. Parents of scholars in the same cohort often form lasting relationships. We encourage this community but do not mandate participation.

What is expected of parents day to day?

We view education as a partnership. Your role is to stay engaged with your child's journey by reviewing weekly consultation notes and attending scheduled video conferences. Beyond the logistics, we ask for open, frequent communication. There is no such thing as "too much" information when it comes to your child's wellbeing. Tell us what you are seeing at home. Share the wins and the struggles. We are here for them, and we are here for you.

What systems monitor student wellbeing?

Our intimate cohort size means we notice shifts in engagement or mood long before they escalate. Social-emotional check-ins are woven into weekly consultations and project work.

Do you provide mental health counseling or referrals?

We monitor wellbeing and provide direct support. When circumstances warrant, we facilitate referrals to mental health professionals. We take the whole child seriously.

How do you address screen time, sleep, and physical activity?

Three instructional hours, then done. The curriculum is designed to minimize screen time within our watch, leaving ample room for extracurriculars, family time, and rest.

How do you support students balancing extracurriculars with accelerated academics?

We design coursework to maintain optimal cognitive load. Children are whole people with varied interests. The efficient curriculum builds stamina while preserving time for outside pursuits.

What is your approach to discipline and behavior expectations?

We expect intellectual integrity and mutual respect. Standards for academic honesty and online etiquette are clearly defined in the student handbook. When issues arise, we take a restorative approach, focusing on growth rather than punishment. Consistency, fairness, and high expectations.

What is the language of instruction?

All coursework and instruction are conducted exclusively in English. To ensure students can fully engage with the accelerated pace and depth of our curriculum, high-level proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking is required for admission.

How do you handle accessibility and accommodations?

We will do whatever it takes to ensure accessibility for all. We are committed to removing barriers to ensure every capable student can access our program. Please direct specific accommodation requests or accessibility inquiries to admin@accelerationacademics.org.

Are there clear norms for cameras, microphones, and chat during live sessions?

Yes. Our Socratic model requires genuine engagement, not passive attendance. Cameras remain on during core instruction to facilitate dialogue and collaboration. Clear guidelines govern microphone and chat use. The expectation is a focused, professional learning environment that mirrors a high-level university seminar.

How do you ensure online safety, privacy, and data protection?

Encryption and vetted platforms safeguard student and family data. We comply with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act). Policies are reviewed regularly, and we hold ourselves to the standards we would want for our own children.

What backup plans exist for technology issues or emergencies?

Printed materials. Localized clusters for in-person instruction when needed. Direct faculty curriculum delivery. Educational continuity is maintained regardless of circumstances. We built redundancy into the model because disruptions hinder gains.

Are in-person events mandatory?

The Annual Academic Retreat in Central Florida is completely optional. It is a rare time we gather physically to build deep social bonds, conduct intensive workshops, and solidify the school culture.

What technology does my student need?

A computer (laptop or desktop) with webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection. Minimum internet speed: 10 Mbps download. We recommend a quiet, dedicated learning space. Specific software requirements are provided upon enrollment.

What are the detailed computer requirements?

OS: Windows 10/11 or macOS 11 (Big Sur) or higher. RAM: 8GB minimum (16GB recommended). Processor: Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or equivalent. Backup: An external hard drive or cloud backup service is required. Browser: Google Chrome (latest version). Internet: Minimum 10 Mbps upload/download speed per student.

What if our internet speed is below 10 Mbps?

Video-based synchronous learning requires bandwidth. If you need assistance with tech support, we will work with your family to ensure your child has what is needed to succeed. That guarantee is included in the tuition.

What supplies do we need?

Beyond the computer, scholars need a dedicated headset with a microphone and a high-resolution webcam. We believe in analog work in a digital world. All other worksheets and supplies required to complete lessons are included in the price of tuition and will be ordered by Acceleration Academics upon formal enrollment.

How is technology used in instruction?

Instruction is delivered through Canvas, our learning management system, but technology is merely the infrastructure, not the pedagogy. Our lessons are human-led, Socratic, and peer-to-peer. While we refuse to use technology as a substitute for teaching, we actively integrate AI and programming into our curriculum because the modern world demands those capabilities. We teach students to wield these tools with precision and ethics, ensuring technology remains a powerful lever for their intellect rather than a crutch for their thinking.

Is the school accredited?

We are in our inaugural year, and accreditation requires operational history. This is standard. We have initiated the process for Accreditation Eligibility with Cognia (SACS CASI), the regional accreditor for Florida and the Southeast. We are building to their standards from day one, not retrofitting later. Full accreditation is expected by the end of our second academic year.

How do you handle mandated testing?

We will work with your county to ensure exams such as EOC, SAT, PERT, AP, etc. are completed as required for various goals your student may have (early graduation, advanced high school curriculum, dual enrollment, etc.).

How are course credits, transcripts, and academic records documented?

Every student receives an official Academic Transcript and Portfolio detailing completed high-school-level courses, content mastery, and grade equivalency. Students exiting our program pursue one of three pathways: Advanced High School Placement, Early College Admission, or Home Education Diploma.

How do you align with state, national, or international standards?

Our curriculum aligns with The College Board (AP/SAT) and Florida Department of Education high school standards. We do not aim for minimum compliance. Our standards meet or exceed traditional graduation requirements, preparing students to enter high school with advanced standing.

What regulations govern your operations?

As a Florida private school, we operate under Florida Statute 1002.42 and are registered with the Florida Department of Education (School #3987). We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation (EIN 41-2449608). We adhere to federal regulations on student data privacy (FERPA and COPPA) and maintain a non-discrimination policy. Compliance is overseen by administrative leadership, external legal counsel, and our Board of Directors.

How does this affect other entities or activities (i.e., sports) eligibility?

Acceleration Academics makes no statements about how early high school course completion affects eligibility for admissions or participation in activities or organizations outside of diploma requirement completion, per FL statutes. It is strongly encouraged that you contact your selected organization for eligibility and compliance with their programs.

How do I graduate after homeschooling in Florida?

To graduate, FL high schoolers must have 4 English credits, 4 mathematics credits, 3 science credits, 3 social studies credits, 1 physical education credit, 1 credit in the fine and performing arts, speech and debate, or practical arts, 8 elective credits, and 1 online course. For more information, visit our resources on receiving a diploma, annual assessments, middle-grade promotion, and Bright Futures.

What college counseling and pathway planning do students receive?

Accelerated pathway advising begins in Grade 5 and continues through Grade 8. We provide strategic high school planning, portfolio development for early college applications, SAT readiness (integrated into the annual retreat), and guidance on the Home Education Diploma petition process.

How do you prepare students for standardized tests?

Test readiness is a natural outcome of mastery, not a separate track. Students complete rigorous, college-level work including three AP courses. They leave prepared for AP exams and dual enrollment. SAT instruction is integrated into the annual academic retreat. We do not teach to the test, rather we recognize exams are a required part of the whole academic journey.

What metrics do you track to measure student success?

Three dimensions. Academic Acceleration: mastery rates in core subjects and completion of AP courses with early college credit before entering 9th grade. Pathway Completion: percentage of graduates successfully placed into their desired pathway. Holistic Wellbeing: engagement and emotional flourishing tracked through our advisory and feedback models.

What outcomes can you share for graduates?

We are an inaugural program, so longitudinal data does not yet exist. What we can share: our pilot cohort completed AP courses and obtained early college credit before entering 9th grade. They are prepared for early college admission, immediate dual enrollment, or home education diploma petition.

Beyond your founding pilot cohort, what specific matriculation data and SAT/ACT score averages do you project?

As an inaugural program, we do not have longitudinal data for college matriculation. Our accountability, however, is measured by what we call The Readiness Metric: all scholars are targeted to achieve mastery in three high-level AP courses and secure early college credit before entering 9th grade. This level of foundational rigor prepares them not just for standardized tests, but beyond them. Our integrated SAT preparation is designed to produce scores that reflect genuine mastery.

How do you support students transitioning to traditional schools?

We manage the entire process. We provide the receiving school with a comprehensive transcript and portfolio. We communicate directly with the new school to ensure appropriate placement and credit recognition. Your child's accelerated progress will be honored.

What is the policy on withdrawal, leave of absence, or dismissal?

Voluntary withdrawal is permitted at any time, with full transcript support for completed coursework. Widely recognized curricula make transitions smooth. Once admitted, scholars are never dismissed. Those who need additional support transition to one-on-one instruction.

What is the refund policy if we withdraw?

Refund terms are outlined in the enrollment agreement and depend on the timing of withdrawal. Generally, tuition is prorated through the current quarter. The application fee and enrollment deposit are non-refundable. Scholarship funds are returned to the state according to Step Up for Students guidelines. Full details are provided before enrollment.

What if we move out of Florida mid-year?

Your enrollment travels with you. Your enrollment travels with you. You can continue without interruption. If you move out of state, your scholarship status may change, and you would transition to a private-pay out-of-state family, but your child's seat in the cohort remains secure.

How do you ensure academic quality and evaluate faculty performance?

Mastery checkpoints and benchmarks continuously gauge student progress, guiding early intervention and pacing decisions. Faculty receive ongoing professional development in Socratic methods, gifted pedagogy, and virtual engagement. Performance is evaluated through mastery metrics and direct family feedback. We strive for small faculty, high standards, constant refinement.

What role does governance play in quality and mission alignment?

Acceleration Academics, Inc. is a Florida nonprofit corporation with 501(c)(3) status (EIN 41-2449608). The Board of Directors handles strategic planning, financial stewardship, and legal compliance. We provide continuous evaluation of curriculum and pedagogy with dual oversight and built-in accountability.

What resources are available for Florida homeschool families?

We provide guidance on Florida homeschool requirements including receiving a diploma, annual assessments, middle-grade promotion, and Bright Futures scholarship eligibility. Visit our website for detailed information on each pathway.

What is the "Launch Prep" program?

Launch Prep is our specialized foundational tier for scholars in grades 3 and 4. It is strictly designed to prepare high-potential students for the rigors of our flagship 5th-8th grade cohort. The curriculum focuses heavily on the specific metrics required for flagship admission: automating multiplication facts, building oral reading fluency, and mastering RACE (Restate, Answer, Cite, Explain) writing framework.

Who is the "Accelerate Single Subject" program for?

This program allows homeschool students to guest join a single subject cohort on a semester basis. It provides families an affordable, flexible option to access high-level instruction without a full-time commitment.

What is the "Summer Elite" program and who can attend?

Summer Elite is our intensive preparatory session designed to bridge academic years, preventing the "summer slide" while introducing advanced concepts for the upcoming term. For scholars currently enrolled in our Launch or High School tracks, this program is complimentary and included in your annual tuition. We also welcome motivated external students to apply for these summer sessions; tuition rates for non-enrolled students are available on our Programs & Tuition page.

Do you offer 1-on-1 tutoring for students not enrolled in the full-time school?

Yes. We open our faculty schedule to the public for focused, private instruction. This is an excellent option for families who are satisfied with their current school but require expert intervention in specific areas such as advanced mathematics, Socratic writing, or standardized test preparation. Pricing and scheduling options can be found on our Programs & Tuition page.

What is the "Focus on Faith" track?

A dedicated add-on for families who wish to integrate a Biblical worldview. It includes a daily 30-minute morning session covering prayer and King James Bible study, plus specialized Humanities that explores history and literature through a faith-based lens.

What is the cost and schedule for the Faith track?

The Faith track is offered at no cost. It occurs Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1:00 PM EST.

Is the Faith track mandatory?

No. It is strictly opt-in. Families select this option during enrollment. Students in the secular track simply do not attend.