Full-Time ESE Center Charter Schools in Tampa Bay

Pepin Academies are full-time ESE Center Charter Schools in the State of Florida that offer a standard diploma option to students with learning and learning-related disabilities in grades 3-12.

What is an ESE Center?

An ESE Center, short for Exceptional Student Education Center, is a specialized educational setting designed to meet the unique needs of students with exceptionalities. In an ESE Center, students receive individualized attention, evidence-based instruction, and therapeutic interventions to help them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. These schools foster an inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that every student’s potential is recognized.

The Pepin Academies Approach

Discover the difference at our ESE charter schools. At Pepin Academies, the approach is about the whole child. Pepin Academies are an example of how a well-designed educational program, dedicated and innovative teachers, committed parents and our civic and business communities can work together to provide for the individual needs and opportunity of a child, regardless of the special challenges they may face.

We offer a supportive atmosphere that focuses on improving academics and social achievement. For students who qualify, therapy is provided, at no cost, with access to social workers, mental health counselors, occupational therapists, physical therapists, sensory integration, and speech-language programs.

Individualized Instruction for Each Student

We provide differentiated instruction for each student and utilize continuous and authentic assessments. The curriculum is diversified and driven by the needs of the students. All students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities and educational opportunities such as athletics, performing arts, clubs, and career and technical education. These are opportunities that they may not otherwise have in a traditional school setting.

Our mission is to empower students with learning disabilities to maximize their potential in a positive therapeutic educational environment.

Pepin Academies School Year Calendar

Pepin Academies follows a modified calendar starting school in late July. Students have the same number of school days but have a shorter summer break with more frequent breaks throughout the school year.

Cognia Accreditation

Pepin Academies is a Cognia-accredited educational institution. Accreditation through Cognia indicates that Pepin Academies has met rigorous, research-based standards of educational excellence to ensure the educational program offered meets the needs of learners through proficiency in four key characteristics.

• Culture of Learning: the institution’s focus on the challenges, joys, and opportunities for learning, and the coherence with its mission and vision.
• Leadership for Learning: the responsibility of an institution’s leaders to influence and impact all aspects of the institution in positive ways.
• Engagement of Learning: the inclusion of all learners in the learning process, and their development of confidence and love of learning.
• Growth in Learning: the growth of learners in the programs and curricula provided by the institution and their readiness to successfully transition to the next levels of learning.
• System of Distinction: In 2023, out of over 1000 candidates across the globe, Cognia has named Pepin Academies a System of Distinction. This award recognizes schools or systems that effectively implement high-quality instruction, show consistent organizational effectiveness, and maintain a commitment to continuous improvement.

The Yass Prize

Pepin Academies is proud to be recognized as a Yass Prize Finalist and one of just four recipients of the STOP Award—a distinguished honor within the Yass Prize initiative, often referred to as the “Pulitzer of Education Innovation.”

Launched in 2021 by philanthropists Janine and Jeff Yass, the Yass Prize celebrates education innovators who deliver Sustainable, Transformational, Outstanding, and Permissionless (“STOP”) learning models. These awards support visionary organizations that reimagine how students learn—especially under challenging circumstances like the recent pandemic.

Receiving the STOP Award highlights Pepin’s unwavering commitment to serving students with learning disabilities through innovative, individualized education. Our recognition reflects our strong community partnerships, evidence-backed outcomes, and holistic approach to empowerment. It validates our mission and amplifies our ability to scale impact, ensuring every learner has access to transformative opportunities.

This honor not only celebrates our achievements today—it propels us forward as we continue expanding, improving, and creating a brighter educational future for students across Florida and beyond.