1251 Learning Essentials Academy empowers students and their families to Learn, Lead, Serve, and Create to transform their community.
Our 4 Pillars
At the heart of 1251 LEA are four guiding pillars that shape everything we do:
🎓 LEARN
We cultivate strong academic foundations through small-group instruction, personalized goals, and a love for reading, writing, and thinking deeply.🌟 LEAD
Every child is a leader. We teach leadership through biblical character-based education and real-world responsibilities.💛 SERVE
Our students serve others through community projects, mentorship, and daily acts of kindness, instilling humility and purpose.🎨 CREATE
Children express themselves through the arts, storytelling, innovation, and entrepreneurial thinking, building the confidence to dream big and do good.
Meet Our Founder
Welcome to 1251 Learning Essentials Academy. As a lifelong educator, literacy advocate, and mother, I founded this school to create the learning environment I wished existed for every child, one that sees their potential, values their voice, and prepares them to lead with wisdom and faith.
Our academy is more than a school; it’s a community. Rooted in the rich heritage of Riviera Beach, we serve families who believe in the power of small classrooms, big dreams, and unwavering values. Whether your child is starting their academic journey or needs a place to thrive, we are here to walk alongside you.
I invite you to come visit us, meet our team, and see how your child can flourish at 1251 LEA.
With faith and gratitude,
Kendra Spence-Wester
Founder | Director | Literacy Champion
1251 LEA OUR STORY
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1251 LEA OUR STORY *
Our Story: A Legacy of Literacy & Leadership in Riviera Beach
1251 Learning Essentials Academy was born out of both a calling and a community need. After more than 25 years in public education, from teacher to principal to district leader, our founder returned to her roots to address one of the biggest challenges facing children in our neighborhoods: literacy.
We opened our doors with a mission to close the achievement gap, restore joy in learning, and champion the success of every child, especially those often overlooked.
In alignment with Psalm 125:1, our school is firmly planted in faith. We carry forward the legacy of local trailblazers, including family members who’ve served this city with distinction, from education and law enforcement to public service and the arts. Their courage inspires us to raise up the next generation of readers, leaders, and difference-makers.