Finding the right education option for your child while balancing the unique demands of working in Central Florida's tourism industry presents distinct challenges. Families in the Lake Buena Vista area often work non-traditional hours, manage unpredictable schedules, and need educational solutions that accommodate the realities of careers in hospitality, entertainment, and tourism.
Pluris Academy understands these challenges. Located just 15 minutes from Lake Buena Vista, we offer an innovative educational approach that prepares students for the rapidly evolving world while accommodating the scheduling needs of tourism industry families education.
Why Choose Pluris Academy
Lake Buena Vista sits at the heart of one of the world's most dynamic tourism centers. Families who call this area home often work for Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, or the hundreds of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues that make Central Florida a global destination. These careers require dedication, flexibility, and often non-traditional schedules.
Our Unique Educational Philosophy
Pluris Academy was founded with a simple but powerful mission: to empower students to become effective problem-solvers who can navigate and shape an ever-changing world. We call our approach the "garage" methodology, inspired by the legendary innovators who started world-changing companies in modest garage spaces.
Our educational model emphasizes:
- Entrepreneurial thinking integrated across all grade levels
- Project-based learning that develops critical thinking and real-world skills
- Technology integration that prepares students for digital citizenship
- Global perspective that develops culturally aware, sustainable thinkers
- Small class sizes that ensure personalized attention for every student
Transportation Solutions
One of the primary concerns for Lake Buena Vista families considering a private school near Disney is transportation. We understand that commute time and convenience matter significantly when you're coordinating work schedules, drop-offs, pickups, and after-school activities.
Easy Access via Major Routes
Pluris Academy's location at 11520 S Apopka Vineland Rd offers convenient access from Lake Buena Vista through multiple routes:
Primary Route via Apopka Vineland Road:
- Distance: Approximately 7 miles
- Average commute time: 15 minutes
- Direct route with minimal turns
Alternate Route via FL-535:
- Distance: Approximately 8 miles
- Average commute time: 18 minutes
- Convenient for families living near the western areas of Lake Buena Vista
Commute Time Benefits
The 15-minute drive from most Lake Buena Vista locations to Pluris Academy means:
- Morning drop-offs that don't add significant time to your commute if you work in the International Drive or Universal areas
- Afternoon pickups that allow time to get home, transition, and prepare for evening shifts if needed
- Midday flexibility for families with non-traditional schedules who may need to drop off or pick up outside standard times
Accommodating Non-Traditional Work Schedules
The tourism and hospitality industry runs 24/7, which means many work schedules don't align with traditional 9-to-5 hours. Pluris Academy recognizes this reality and works with families to provide educational excellence without adding stress to already complex schedules.
Our School Schedule
Standard School Hours:
- Elementary School: 8:30 AM - 2:45 PM
- Middle School: 8:00 AM - 2:45 PM
- High School: 8:00 AM - 2:45 PM
These hours provide consistency for students while offering flexibility for families with varying work schedules. Parents working evening shifts can drop off children and have the afternoon free, while those with morning shifts can pick up children after school.
Flexibility for Tourism Industry Families
While we maintain consistent school hours for optimal student learning, we work with families on:
Communication and Coordination:
- Regular updates through our school portal so parents can stay informed regardless of their work schedule
- Flexible parent-teacher conference scheduling, including evening and early morning options
- Email and phone communication that accommodates various schedules
- Virtual meeting options for families who can't attend in person
Emergency Contacts and Support:
- Multiple emergency contact options for families whose work schedules vary
- Understanding of the unique situations tourism industry families face
- Collaboration with extended family members who may assist with pickups or school needs
School Calendar Considerations:
- Our academic calendar published well in advance for schedule planning
- Understanding that some families may need to plan around peak tourism seasons
- Flexibility in arranging makeup work when family obligations require schedule adjustments
Comprehensive Education for All Grade Levels
Pluris Academy serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade, providing continuity and consistency as your children grow.
Elementary School (Grades K-5)
Our elementary program focuses on building strong foundational skills while nurturing creativity and curiosity. Young learners experience:
- Core academics including reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies
- Creative exploration through art, music, and physical education
- Entrepreneurial introduction appropriate for young minds
- Technology exposure that develops digital literacy
- Small class sizes ensuring individual attention
Middle School (Grades 6-8)
The middle school years present unique challenges and opportunities. Our program addresses the specific needs of early adolescents through:
- Interdisciplinary curriculum that connects learning across subjects
- Entrepreneurial skill development that teaches problem-solving
- Technology integration including coding and digital citizenship
- Social-emotional learning that helps students navigate adolescence
- Advisory periods that provide mentorship and support
High School (Grades 9-12)
Our college preparatory high school program challenges students while providing exceptional support for future success:
Academic Excellence:
- Rigorous curriculum aligned with college requirements
- Honors courses across disciplines
- Small, seminar-style classes that encourage discussion
- Preparation for standardized testing
Entrepreneurial Program:
- Advanced entrepreneurship curriculum available to upper school students
- Real-world business projects and startup development opportunities
- Mentorship from successful entrepreneurs
- Foundation in international business and business management
College Preparation:
- Dual enrollment program in partnership with the University of Central Florida
- College counseling and application support
- Transcript preparation and teacher recommendations
The Pluris Academy Difference: Our "Garage" Methodology
Our "garage" methodology sets Pluris Academy's approach apart from traditional educational options.
What Is the "Garage" Approach?
Inspired by innovators like Steve Jobs, who started Apple in a garage, our methodology recognizes that breakthrough thinking happens in spaces designed for experimentation, iteration, and hands-on problem-solving.
At Pluris Academy, we create three primary "garages":
First Garage (Ages 5-10):
- Focus on creativity and exploration
- Introduction to design thinking
- Project-based learning appropriate for young children
Second Garage (Ages 10-13):
- Emphasis on entrepreneurial skills
- Development of business thinking
- Technology as a creative tool
Third Garage (Ages 13-18):
- Focus on careers and startup creation
- Advanced technology integration
- Real-world problem-solving
Real-World Learning
Children growing up in the Lake Buena Vista area witness world-class service, innovation, and entertainment daily. Our garage methodology channels this exposure into educational experiences that develop:
- Problem identification skills
- Creative solution development
- Iterative thinking and learning from failure
- Collaboration with diverse teams
- Presentation and communication skills
These skills serve students regardless of their future career path, whether they pursue hospitality management, technology, engineering, healthcare, education, or any other field.
Academic Excellence Aligned with Florida Standards
While our innovative approach makes Pluris Academy unique, we maintain rigorous academic standards that ensure students master essential knowledge and skills. Our curriculum aligns with Florida standards, meaning students receive comprehensive education that prepares them for standardized assessments, college admissions, and future academic success.
Specialized Programs
Online High School Program: Through our partnership with The Crenshaw School, we offer an accredited online high school program. This provides additional flexibility for families who may need alternative scheduling options while ensuring students receive a quality American high school diploma.
Dual Enrollment: Our partnership with the University of Central Florida allows qualified high school students to earn college credits while completing high school. This program gives students a head start on higher education and demonstrates academic readiness to college admissions offices.
Beyond Academics: Developing Well-Rounded Students
Academic excellence forms the foundation of education, but Pluris Academy develops the whole student. We recognize that tourism industry families value diverse experiences and cultural awareness—qualities we cultivate through our comprehensive program.
Arts and Enrichment
All Pluris Academy students participate in:
- Visual arts that develop creativity and self-expression
- Music education that builds discipline and appreciation
- Physical education that promotes health and teamwork
- Technology integrated meaningfully across subjects
Pluris Talks and Guest Speakers
We regularly bring successful entrepreneurs and leaders to campus to share their experiences with students. Past speakers have included the founder of Booking.com and other successful business leaders who inspire students with real-world stories of innovation and achievement.
Taking the Next Step: Enrolling at Pluris Academy
If you're exploring Lake Buena Vista education options and want to learn more about how Pluris Academy can serve your family, we invite you to take the next step.
Our Enrollment Process
Enrolling at Pluris Academy involves several straightforward steps:
- Schedule a campus tour: Visit our facility and meet our administration and teachers
- Complete required documentation: Submit enrollment forms and academic records
- Financial arrangements: Explore tuition options and available scholarships
- Finalize enrollment: Complete registration and prepare for the school year
Registration must be completed in person or virtually. We work with families to make the process as smooth as possible, understanding that tourism industry schedules may require flexibility in appointment timing.
Scholarship Opportunities
We accept most scholarships, especially STEP UP scholarships, making private education more accessible to families throughout the Lake Buena Vista area. Explore our tuition and fees page to understand costs and available financial assistance options.
Connect With Pluris Academy Today
Ready to explore whether Pluris Academy is the right educational choice for your family? We welcome the opportunity to meet you, answer your questions, and show you firsthand how our innovative approach prepares students for success.
Contact us today to discover how Pluris Academy can become your family's educational home.