A Modern Microschool Built
on Purpose
Academy of Scholars Leadership and Learning Center was founded in 2020 with a clear vision: to create a personalized, relationship-centered learning environment where students are both challenged and supported. Designed as a bridge between homeschool and traditional school, the Academy provides structured academics within a calm, focused, and engaging learning community.
We believe students thrive when they are known, mentored, and encouraged to explore their ideas deeply. Our model combines academic rigor with flexibility, ensuring scholars develop confidence, discipline, and strong intellectual foundations.
Our Story
After more than 15 years in education—teaching preschool through doctoral-level courses—I recognized the need for a learning environment that nurtured both excellence and individuality. Many students were capable of more than traditional systems allowed, yet they needed structure, guidance, and meaningful relationships to fully realize their potential.
The Academy of Scholars was created to disrupt miseducation by offering an intentional alternative: small classes, mixed-grade collaboration, hands-on learning, and strong mentorship. Our goal is not simply academic completion, but academic growth with purpose.
Our Educational Model
The Academy operates as a microschool serving grades 6–9 (with high school expansion aligned to cohort progression). Our model blends the best elements of traditional schooling and homeschooling:
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Small-group instruction
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Mixed-grade collaboration
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Individualized pacing
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Project-based and experiential learning
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Direct instruction guided by certified educators
We intentionally maintain a cohort-based structure to preserve academic continuity and meaningful peer relationships. Scholars receive rigorous instruction while learning in an environment that feels focused, relational, and supportive.
Our Mission
To cultivate confident, capable scholars through rigorous instruction, hands-on learning, and leadership development within a personalized academic community.
Leadership
Dr. Cyrhonda Hill, Founder & Head of School
Dr. Cyrhonda Hill is an experienced educator and educational leader with more than 20 years of experience spanning preschool through doctoral-level instruction. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, along with a master’s degree in Adult Education and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She holds Missouri certification in K–12 Cross-Categorical Special Education and has served as a new teacher mentor and school improvement consultant for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
In 2020, Dr. Hill founded the Academy of Scholars Leadership and Learning Center to create a personalized, academically rigorous learning environment where students are both challenged and genuinely known. Her doctoral research and extensive professional experience shaped the Academy’s microschool model, blending structured instruction with flexibility, critical thinking, and leadership development.
As a certified NASP Archery Instructor and Master Gardener, Dr. Hill integrates applied learning into the Academy’s STEM and sustainability initiatives. Under her leadership, Academy scholars have earned regional recognition in national STEM competitions and secured grant funding to support community-based initiatives such as the Eat Green Grow Green program.
Dr. Hill leads the Academy with a commitment to academic excellence, intentional mentorship, and the belief that education should cultivate both intellectual strength and strong character.
Our Team
Camryn Hill, Teacher's Assistant
Camryn Hill holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and brings a strong scientific foundation to the Academy. Her academic background includes advanced coursework in animal behavior, organic chemistry, physics, and independent biological research. Through hands-on laboratory work and research projects, she developed expertise in experimental design, scientific analysis, and data interpretation.
Camryn supports scholars in STEM instruction, research projects, and hands-on experimentation, helping students translate complex scientific concepts into meaningful learning experiences.
Our Commitment to Scholars
At the Academy of Scholars, education extends beyond textbooks. Scholars participate in STEM competitions, leadership initiatives, community engagement, fine arts instruction, and structured physical education experiences. We are committed to developing not only strong students—but thoughtful leaders prepared for high school completion, post-secondary pathways, and meaningful contributions to their communities.