Non-Traditional

Episode 59: Steve Boehle (Academy 48 Charter School) 🎙 In this episode: I talk with Steve Boehle about the non-traditional charter school he has started in Arizona called Academy 48. Will this type of innovative model be the wave of the future in tackling some of the problems in youth sports, or are there still too many unknowns? 🔹 Bringing Back the Good in Youth Sports Steve Boehle saw what was missing in today’s youth sports culture—and decided to build something better from the ground up. 🔹 From Tech to Teams Before launching Academy 48, Steve worked in the corporate world, helping manage free and reduced meal claims for state agencies. 🔹 Listening First, Then Building Steve started asking questions across the youth sports ecosystem—and used his market research background to identify common problems and real solutions. 🔹 Middle School Magic While coaching middle school baseball, Steve saw how sports can unify a school: improving academics, reducing discipline issues, and building community. 🔹 Turning Resistance Into Action After running into barriers with his coaching philosophy at a high school program, Steve chose to go out on his own—and Academy 48 was born. 🔹 What Is Academy 48? It’s both a school and a sports training center, designed for student-athletes who want development, community, and balance—not just a fast track to college scholarships. 🔹 A New Model for a New Generation By integrating athletic training into the school day, Academy 48 helps families reclaim their evenings and build healthier routines. 🔹 Is It Just a Sports Factory? Steve addresses concerns that models like this can sacrifice academics. He says grades come first—and the goal is better humans, not just better athletes. 🔹 Who Teaches at Academy 48? All teachers are state-accredited. Most are former athletes or part-time educators aligned with the school’s mission. Class sizes are kept small at a 1:20 ratio. 🔹 Room to Grow Steve acknowledges that the current setup isn’t ideal for every learner yet (like students needing AP or special education services), but hopes to expand. 🔹 No Specializing Too Soon Academy 48 encourages multi-sport participation and doesn’t allow sport specialization before 5th grade—burnout prevention is a top priority. 🔹 Travel Team Limits & Tuition-Free Access No travel teams allowed until at least 7th grade—and Academy 48 is tuition-free, thanks to Arizona’s education funding model and grant support.

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