Today we’d like to introduce you to Marlene Dandler.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Seashore Academy began at my kitchen table, where I witnessed firsthand the magic of small-group learning and hands-on, pencil-and-paper instruction coming to life. From those very first days, we made a clear and intentional commitment to screen-free. Seashore Academy was founded with a simple yet powerful vision: to create a nurturing, child-centered learning environment where curiosity, confidence, and character grow alongside strong academics. What started as a small, close-knit school rooted in traditional, time-tested values has thoughtfully grown into a vibrant learning community serving children throughout their elementary years. At every stage of our growth, our mission has remained the same—to provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that foster deep understanding, personal responsibility, and a genuine love of learning.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like many growing communities, our journey has not been without challenges. In the early years, we focused on building trust within the community, refining our programs, and carefully assembling the right team to bring our vision to life. From the very beginning, we have remained deeply committed to child-centered education—prioritizing flexibility, individualized learning, small class sizes, and a truly screen-free environment. As enrollment grew, we navigated increasing operational demands and the evolving needs of families—especially during times of uncertainty in the broader educational landscape. Meeting these moments required adaptability, resilience, and strong, steady leadership. At the same time, we were intentional about balancing growth with preserving the close-knit, nurturing culture that defines Seashore Academy. Each challenge ultimately strengthened us. They compelled us to clarify our values, refine our systems, and deepen our commitment to delivering a high-quality, personalized education. These experiences have shaped who we are today and continue to guide our growth with purpose, care, and integrity.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Seashore Academy, we maintain small class sizes and thoughtfully group students by academic ability rather than age, ensuring each child receives the appropriate level of challenge and support. Our program is intentionally screen-free and centered on hands-on, experiential learning that connects education to the real world.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
People recognize Seashore Academy for its academic programs and nurturing environment, but many might not know that we incorporate sustainability and hands-on environmental projects into daily learning. From planting gardens to exploring local ecosystems, we’re helping students develop a sense of responsibility for the planet alongside their academic and social growth. Since 2015, one hundred percent of our students have been legally homeschooled and come to us for 1 to 5 days of academics. Families enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeschooling with the rigor and structure of private education. Students wear uniforms, have credentialed teachers and rigorous academics, including tests, quizzes, papers, report cards, etc. We put families in the driver’s seat of their children’s education. Students develop strong academic foundations while also building character, confidence, and leadership skills. Beyond core subjects, they gain practical life skills such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and public speaking—preparing them not only for academic success, but for life beyond the classroom. Our families value the flexibility we offer, with enrollment options ranging from one to five days per week to accommodate diverse needs. Grounded in research highlighting the impact of excessive screen time on children’s cognitive development, we remain committed to providing a fully screen-free environment where students learn through meaningful interaction, active engagement, and authentic experiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.SeashoreAcademy.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seashore_academy_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.seashoreacademy.org
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/seashore-academy/?viewAsMember=true
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@seashore_academy
Image Credits
Seashore Academy
