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Our Journey

Compass Rose Academy was founded in March of 2008. The idea for the school was generated by a small group of parents who were looking to provide the highest level of education possible for their children. This group of parents wanted a school that would allow their children to learn in an environment where they would be challenged and encouraged, respected and acknowledged, motivated and loved. We started as a home school program for 12 children. Most of Sherry Hartley’s (co-founder of CRA) home was turned into a Montessori-style classroom. We spent the year working with students and developing our baseline curriculum. By the end of that year it was time to find a new home for CRA. We moved into two rooms at The Market Shops of Sandestin. The school remained at this location for three-and-half years. We spent this time growing our program, reinforcing our curriculum, and becoming an area leader in academics. In 2012, CRA moved again. We found a beautiful piece of property in Blue Mountain Beach and it is here that we have created our forever home for Compass Rose Academy.

Written By:

Christine Buscarello, Co-founder of CRA

School Enrollment

Our school year runs year round. This allows students to learn, grow, and inspire all year long. Open enrollment for the 2024- 2025 school year has begun. We will have limited availability for all grade levels PreK3 through 6th grade.

All of our grade levels have limited availability due to our strict 8 to 1 student teacher ratio and they will fill quickly. Spaces are filled on a first come first serve basis.

Call today to schedule a classroom observation.

We open the classrooms to one family per day at 7:45am or 3pm.

Tours are by appointment only.

What grades/ages does CRA serve?

At Compass Rose Academy, we serve children ages 3 through 11 or PreK3 through 6th grade.
How many classrooms do you have?

We currently have 3 classrooms. Each classroom serves different ages groups/grade levels. Sea Turtles PreK3 & PreK4 Ages 3 to 5 Sea Otters & Tiger Sharks Kindergarten, First, & Second Grade Ages 5 to 7 Manta Rays Third Through Sixth Ages 8 to 12
What is the differnece between part-time and full-time enrollment?

Full Time Enrollment Student attends CRA during the year-round, at least 9 out of 12-month, school year during typical school hours. Part Time Enrollment Student attends anytime during the calendar year. Student attend as home school hybrid or during aftercare hours or partial school day hours or only during the summer months.
What is your student to teacher ratio?

We provide a 8 to 1 ratio, 8 students for every 1 teacher.
What are school hours?

CRA school hours are from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm. Drop off times are staggered based on age. Pick up time is between 2:30-3:00pm. Early drop off at 7:45 is allowed for an additional fee. After care is available from 3:00 - 5:15pm for an additional fee. Please see the fee schedule on the parent information page about additional costs.
Can my child attend before age 3?

Sadly, no. We are registered as a private school. There for we can only serve children 3 and above.
Do you accept VPK voucher?

Sadly, no. Those are only to be used at daycare facilities that offer VPK. We do have a fantastic PreK program though.
Where can I find information on scholarships?

You can find lots of information at the Step Up for Students website. Please visit: https://www.stepupforstudents.org/