Our Mission
Bethune Academy values the unique qualities of each person and believes that everyone has the capacity to learn. We expect all learners to attend and show effort, meet the required curriculum, develop responsibility, citizenship, and leadership.
Vision
Bethune Academy prepares elementary students for successful personal and academic achievement through a traditional academic program focusing on science, math and technology. Students choosing Bethune Academy are held to rigorous academic and behavior expectations. The school culture inspires students to set and achieve academic and personal goals as they prepare to make appropriate life choices.
School History
Initial Development
Bethune Academy, formally known as Bethune Elementary, was an all black school until 1963 when a lawsuit was brought against the Polk County School Board to end de jure segregation. Bethune Elementary was integrated but was still racially identifiable as a majority black school. After several court injunctions Bethune Elementary was closed and the districts were redrawn. Bethune Elementary reopened in 1993 as a Magnet school for Haines City, Davenport, Lake Hamilton, and Dundee. The school was renamed Bethune Academy and emphasizes science, math, and technology. To read the full history you can download this PDF.
Recent History
Sharon Knowles has been the principal of Bethune Academy since it was opened in 1993. She has cultivated a family atmosphere among her staff like no other school in this county. Bethune Academy is a place where all the parts have a vested interest in the success of the whole. Bethune Academy rewards students for proper behavior as a means to correct improper behavior. Every month students and staff come together for a school wide celebration of the accomplishments and achievements of the students. Here the students are awarded and recognized among their peers. Through these celebrations Mrs. Knowles has intentionally developed a sense of pride and school spirit in all who enter the walls of Bethune Academy.
Code of Conduct and Other School Policy
Bethune Academy families are an important part of the success of our mission and vision. We depend on the full support and participation from our families. Upon acceptance into Bethune Academy, our parents must sign a contract which explains their responsibility to support our academic, behavior, uniform dress code and attendance policies. In addition, it is vital to our success that the Bethune Academy families participate in all required meetings and special events.