Why Kipe Academy?
Kipe Academy is intentionally designed as a small, relationship-centered learning environment where students are truly known, supported, and challenged to grow—both academically and emotionally.
We believe students need more than a one-size-fits-all approach. They need to be seen, supported, and given meaningful opportunities to build confidence, independence, and ownership of their learning.
Who Kipe Academy Is For
Families choose Kipe Academy because they’re looking for something different—and ready for something more intentional.
Kipe Academy is a strong fit for families who are:
-
Committed to a personalized, relationship-centered learning environment
-
Open to a multi-age classroom model
-
Ready for their child to grow in independence and responsibility
-
Looking for something beyond a traditional school experience
If this does not align with your family’s goals, Kipe Academy may not be the right fit.
What Makes Kipe Academy Different
Our model is intentionally designed to be different from traditional school environments.
-
An intentionally small, designed learning environment
-
Multi-age classrooms instead of strict grade levels
-
Small group instruction and goal-based independent work tailored to each student
-
Strong focus on independence, ownership, and real-world learning
-
Hands-on, real-world learning through HOT Topic Units
At Kipe Academy, growth looks like:
-
Students take increasing responsibility for their learning and behavior
-
Students grow in confidence and problem-solving
-
Students make academic progress at their own pace
-
Students develop communication and social awareness
Family
Alignment
Enrollment at Kipe Academy is a partnership.
Families choose our program for both academic growth and a shared commitment to connection, independence, and meaningful learning.
We seek families who value kindness, collaboration, and personal growth—because when families and educators are aligned, students thrive.
Our model is intentionally small and personalized, allowing for strong relationships—while also requiring students to take increasing responsibility for their learning and behavior.
While we provide a supportive environment, Kipe Academy is not:
-
A therapeutic or behavior intervention program
-
A one-size-fits-all traditional school model
-
A drop-off environment without family partnership
Families are expected to actively support their child’s growth and alignment with our model.
While our daily experience is rooted in personalized learning and strong relationships, our work is guided by the following mission and vision:
OUr Mission
The mission of Kipe Academy is to inspire creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in a learning environment that empowers students of varying ability levels to achieve independence.
OUr Vision
At Kipe Academy, students will learn to problem solve through collaboration, experimentation, and exploration in a small class setting where the Science of Reading and Math are imbedded with the purposely designed curriculum based on student interests in science and social studies.
The program is designed to foster a holistic environment that allows students to advance forward based on their learning pace.
Students will also attend to art, music, STEAM, and physical activities as well as social-emotional learning opportunities.
Our goal is to close learning gaps and accelerate learning while allowing students to experience real world scenarios and be a part of their community.
Our Story
Kipe Academy was founded in 2022 by Tonya Kipe, an experienced educator with over a decade in public education, in response to a growing need for more personalized, relationship-centered learning.
After years in traditional classrooms, Tonya saw firsthand that many students needed something different—an environment where they could truly thrive both academically and emotionally.
She envisioned a learning space where students would be known, supported, and challenged in a small, intentional setting.
With the support of the Kipe Academy Board of Directors, that vision became a reality.
Today, Kipe Academy serves students and families in Winter Haven, Florida through intentionally designed programs that meet learners where they are.
Kipe Academy continues to grow as a community built on trust, connection, and purposeful learning.
Meet the Kipe Academy Team
Our team is made up of experienced educators who are passionate about personalized learning, building strong relationships, and helping students grow in confidence and independence. We work closely together to create a supportive and intentional learning environment for every student.
Tonya Kipe
Executive Director | Certified Private Tutor
Mallory Dyar
Certified Private Tutor
_edited.jpg)
Magaly Velez
Substitute Teacher
Faye DeJong
Certified Private Tutor
Ethics and Professional Conduct
Our Commitment to Safety and Professionalism
Kipe Academy is committed to maintaining a safe, ethical, and professional learning environment.
All instructional personnel, educational support employees, and administrators complete training on the Code of Ethics and Principles of Professional Conduct.
By law, all employees are mandated to report any misconduct or suspected child abuse to the appropriate authorities.