Why Traditional Private Schools Often Struggle to Meet the Needs of Miami’s Elite Student-Athletes

Why Traditional Private Schools Often Struggle to Meet the Needs of Miami’s Elite Student-Athletes
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By: Jay Feldman

Florida has long been home to many ambitious and talented student-athletes, and these exceptional students often benefit from outstanding education options. Yet, with rigorous academic expectations combined with training and gameplay responsibilities that can be grueling and time-consuming, the structure of traditional private schools may not always align well with the needs of these students.

Score Academy was founded with exceptional student needs in mind. When activities related to sports, such as games, practices, and training, conflict with academics, Score Academy provides a flexible solution to help keep kids on track.

“We don’t squeeze students into one-size-fits-all education models. Our programs are built around the student, from scheduling to instruction, because that’s one of the effective ways to support student-athletes with demanding lives on and off the field,” explains Jason Robinovitz, Score Academy’s COO and General Counsel.

How Traditional Schools Can Fall Short for Student-Athletes

While traditional private schools often emphasize rigorous academic standards, they may not always accommodate the varied needs of student-athletes. They also typically operate on a fixed daily schedule, leaving limited flexibility for the adjustable schedules that many student-athletes require to balance training or game commitments.

As a result, student-athletes may feel torn between their two responsibilities. The traditional school structure often leaves little room for rest, additional training, or homework, meaning students might have to choose between their schoolwork and their athletic performance. Frequently, maintaining both at a high level becomes a significant challenge.

In addition, when exceptional students are also elite athletes, extensive travel may be required for games and competitions. Many of these events take place out of town, far from their school, making it difficult — and sometimes impractical — for student-athletes to keep up with testing requirements or coursework while traveling.

While traditional private schools may struggle to accommodate the needs of student-athletes, this highlights why the innovative approach that Score Academy offers Miami’s elite student-athletes can be such a valuable alternative.

Academic Solutions for Athletes in Florida

Score Academy provides student-athletes with highly flexible, one-on-one private schooling designed to meet the multifaceted needs of those who prioritize both athletics and academics. “Traditional schools often require students to choose between competing priorities. We help eliminate that challenge by delivering a customized, academically rigorous education on the student’s schedule, when and where they need it,” says Robinovitz.

Parents and students can feel confident that the educational options offered through Score Academy maintain high standards. Accredited by Cognia and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Score Academy ensures its courses meet the expectations of college-bound students. Its core academic courses are NCAA-approved, and its AP courses and instructors are certified by the College Board.

“We provide elite instruction on demand,” explains Robinovitz. “Whether it’s in-person or virtual, we structure the academic experience around the student, not the other way around.”

Score Academy focuses on college preparation, from 6th grade through 12th grade (middle and high school), by strengthening academic foundations in English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language. This approach fosters a mentoring relationship between instructors and students, encouraging them to engage with their education actively and thoughtfully.

As they enter high school, students have access to a range of classes, from remedial to rigorous advanced placement (AP) offerings. Electives complement the core curriculum, allowing students to explore subjects that align with their interests.

Many schools in Florida — even private ones — operate at full capacity, which can pose challenges for student-athletes. That’s why, like many other private schools and colleges, Score Academy prioritizes its signature small classroom advantage.

“Our job is to minimize the barriers between a student and their goals,” says Robinovitz. “That means highly skilled teachers, flexible delivery, and consistent support. We maintain high standards for rigor and results.”

A Unique Approach

In addition to brick-and-mortar locations, Score Academy offers a virtual option. However, Score Academy is far from a typical virtual school. Instead of joining a Zoom call with dozens of other students, where instructors may struggle to engage everyone, students log in to a private classroom. Here, they interact with their instructor much like they would in person. They also have access to interactive tools, including whiteboards, audio features, and other resources that enhance learning while allowing for scheduling flexibility.

Score Academy emphasizes live instruction and regularly scheduled classes. Its instructors actively communicate with parents and guardians, ensuring they stay informed if a student faces difficulties or needs additional support.

Along with flexible virtual school options, Score Academy also provides in-person private school choices in Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, Coral Springs, and Miami-Dade County, which will debut for the 2025-2026 school year.

Score Academy stands out as an option for student-athletes who need a flexible and comprehensive education that supports their athletic ambitions. Student-athletes thrive in a supportive environment where parents, instructors, administrators, and coaches collaborate to help them succeed.

With individualized support and the academic rigor that parents and college-bound students seek, Score Academy offers the balance and options that student-athletes need to pursue their full potential, both in sports and in the classroom.

 

Published by Jeremy S.

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