A Legacy of Excellence

Founded with a bold vision, Excelsior Prep Academy is driven by a passion for education that spans generations. From its origins in Havana, Cuba, to the classrooms in Florida today, we remain true to our mission of nurturing students who excel academically and embrace cultural diversity.

A Journey of Dedication

The roots of Excelsior Prep Academy trace back to 1950 in Havana, where Dr. Sofia Nuñez Rodriguez and her partner Margarita Labarta established a school that became a beacon of education and community pride. Though the school was shut down in 1961 due to political changes, the founders’ dedication to education remained undeterred. Dr. Nuñez Rodriguez, an advocate for bilingualism, continued her work as a teacher in the U.S., and her daughter, Alicia Rodriguez Bower, brought the Excelsior name to Florida’s charter school landscape in the late 1990s.

Black and white scalloped pattern design.

What We Stand for

Excelsior Prep Academy believes in the power of language and culture. We are committed to providing our students with a solid foundation in the Spanish language, integrated seamlessly throughout their academic journey. Our goal is simple: to help students transition into post-secondary education with confidence and pride, all while embracing their diverse cultural identities.

Setting High Expectations

We strive to foster academic excellence in all our students while helping them develop their linguistic abilities. By providing an immersive language experience beginning in preschool and continuing through middle and high school, we prepare students for success, both in academics and in life. At Excelsior Prep Academy, we set high expectations for our learners to ensure they are ready for the future ahead.

Black and white cloud-like scalloped pattern.

A Community of Respect and Responsibility

At Excelsior Prep Academy, we celebrate diversity. Our vision is to create an environment where students learn to be respectful, responsible, and productive members of their community. With the support of our dedicated teachers, parents, and administration, we aim to develop students who are equipped to succeed in both their education and their broader social environments.

Where Language Meets Culture

Language is more than just words – it’s the key to understanding different cultures, fostering connections, and opening doors to new opportunities. Our commitment to bilingual education is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that learning Spanish in the early years lays the foundation for a lifetime of success, enriching students' academic performance and preparing them for a globalized world.

Continuing the Legacy

Excelsior’s legacy is alive and well thanks to the continued passion and dedication of the next generation. Led by Tim Bower Rodriguez, Esq., and Dr. Carolina Alfonso, we honor the work of Dr. Nuñez Rodriguez and Ms. Rodriguez Bower, who laid the foundation for a school system that fosters academic excellence and cultural pride.