About Academy Schools
It all began in 1996…
Before Academy Schools, founder Janelle Neil encountered a student who twirled—and eventually pulled out—his hair because it “helped him keep his feet still” and meet classroom expectations. Janelle recognized that the problem was not the child; it was an environment that had not yet learned how to meet him.
Together with Camille Cummings and Claudia Jacobus, Janelle helped create a school where adults would observe carefully, partner with families, personalize instruction, and begin with the belief that every student can learn. What began with three students grew, one grade at a time, into the K–12 school Academy is today. Thirty years later, we are still proud to carry the heart of the founders’ goal:
We inspire a vibrant community of learners through a tailored, comprehensive educational experience that inspires inclusion, empathy, and a passion for life-long learning.
What makes us different?
We Are Tuned in to Every Student
Small class sizes allow for us to connect and personalize a unique academic experience for each student, and our class culture intentionally supports the concept that everyone needs things a little differently, and it’s our job to help each child have what they need.
We Meet Each Child Where They Are
We expect to modify our instructional practices and provide accommodations for different learners. We do not ‘teach to the middle’ but intentionally design our instruction to meet the needs and interests of students in our class.
We Model Healthy Relationships and Mental Health Practices
Our students are learning to accept that people are imperfect—them, their peers, their parents, and their teachers. We have an opportunity and a responsibility to teach them healthy ways to interact and grow. We strive to be self-aware, and we recognize our strengths and areas for growth and continually look for opportunities for self-improvement.
We Are Honest and Take Ownership of Learning from Our Mistakes
We model the exact expectations that we have for students. We do not use our power of authority to invalidate a child’s feelings or experiences or to avoid accountability for our actions.