In the Upper Academy, students are encouraged to approach their studies with a spirit of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. Catholic religious studies courses are offered at every grade level, providing a foundation for spiritual growth alongside academic development.
In Middle School, significant classroom time is devoted to project-based learning, built on the principle that students gain deeper understanding through active exploration of real-world challenges. This approach is complemented by a wide range of extracurricular opportunities and a focus on nurturing the whole person—intellectually, morally, spiritually, socially, and personally.
High School students may select from a diverse range of electives, including AP Psychology, Current Events, Forensics, Art 2D/3D, and Film Studies. They also benefit from additional opportunities for enrichment and personal development through Florida Virtual School courses, Model United Nations, the Student Government and more.
Beyond the classroom, extracurricular activities broaden Upper School students’ horizons and build a spirit of service and optimism. Over 20 clubs and student-led organizations give students the chance to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and form lasting friendships while making a positive impact on the school community. From National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society to Key Club, Marine Biology Club, Future Lawyers of America Club, Shelton Without Borders, Model UN, Bible, Media Clubs and more; offer a wide range of opportunities that not only enrich intellectual curiosity but also cultivate responsibility, integrity, and a spirit of collaboration. At Shelton, students grow in character, deepen their sense of purpose, and prepare to lead with both competence and compassion.
All Upper Academy courses are supported by Chromebooks and IPads, ensuring students fully benefit from digital resources and supplemental materials that enhance the classroom experience.
Life in Middle School entails increased independence and flexibility. Each day offers a thoughtful balance of discovery and growth—where students engage with new concepts, explore their own identities, and share experiences that build friendships and community. While gaining the groundwork for secondary school, they develop deeper understandings, celebrate accomplishments, find satisfaction in their progress, and experience the joy and fun that make learning both meaningful and memorable. Integral to this vision is an environment that challenges students beyond academic achievement and provides them with the necessary tools, experiences, and role models to become men and women of faith who strive to grow in virtue and character.
The full breadth and depth of Shelton’s Formation Department continues in Middle School, with a myriad of projects undertaken in Life Prep that combine academic content with real world applications, allowing students to learn by doing. Middle School students willtake Geography, Public Speaking, and Computer Literacy as part of their LifePrep experience.
The Shelton High School curriculum is designed to provide students with the foundation of knowledge and skills that will allow them to succeed in higher education and beyond. We aim to broaden perspectives, guiding students to reach their full potential and a life of virtue rooted in faith. Shelton Academy students are encouraged to seek and love the truth with a spirit of innovation, and to find purpose and meaning in a life of service and personal responsibility.
In High School, students will encounter a greater responsibility on their shoulders for their own learning process. Advanced college-level and honors coursework and programs make High School more dynamic and help students shine in their college applications.
Through electives and extracurricular opportunities, students discover passions and cultivate skills that enrich both their academic credentials and personal lives, as they prepare to become competent adults who care for the common good. They develop their minds while edifying their souls.
Upper Classmen are exposed in detail to the life and teachings of St. Josemaria Escriva and other great and influential men and women who have defined the Western Tradition. Through a deep understanding of how these role models faced tragedy and triumphs, students gain tools to face their own challenges, guided by a Christian moral compass that will shape their decisions and their character.
Our students demonstrate academic excellence and leadership through active membership in prestigious honor societies that recognize achievement across disciplines.
At Shelton Academy, we believe that preparing students for college begins well before senior year. Our College Counseling Program is designed to guide students through every step of the process from self-discovery and academic planning to applications and scholarships ensuring they are not only ready to be admitted to excellent universities but also prepared to thrive once there.
Through personalized advising, students explore their strengths, interests, and career aspirations, while learning to set goals and build a strong academic and extracurricular profile. Parents are actively involved in the process, receiving updates and guidance to support their children’s journey. By the time our students apply to college, they do so with confidence, clarity, and a sense of purpose.
As part of this preparation, Shelton Academy partners with Ray Dass, a nationally recognized program designed to help students excel on the SAT, ACT, and PSAT exams. Using engaging teaching methods, diagnostic testing, and personalized practice, the Ray Dass program empowers students to reach their highest potential on standardized tests.
Beyond test preparation, Ray Dass emphasizes the development of discipline, resilience, and problem-solving skills — qualities that will serve students not only in college admissions but throughout their academic and professional lives. The program is fully integrated into our Upper Academy, giving students the structure and support they need to succeed in one of the most critical steps of the college application journey.
