What inspired Academics Plus, and how has it evolved since 1991?
"When Mark and Melinda Crenwelge founded Academics Plus in 1991, their goal was to teach students how to think. Though we’ve adapted to new technologies and challenges, like the pandemic and AI, we stay committed to that mission: helping students learn how to learn and build the confidence to take academic risks."
What distinguishes Academics Plus from other tutoring or learning centers?
"Academics Plus is a woman-founded, woman-owned small business, and we were the very first learning center in McKinney. Between myself and our two founders, we hold three master’s degrees, a Ph.D., and one Ph.D. currently in progress. And, this is a big one, we provide school advocacy and collaboration at no extra cost to our enrolled students. That’s an incredible value we provide because our students are worth it."
Your team focuses on research-based, personalized instruction for K–12 and test prep. Please explain your approach and methods.
"Many educators say they use research-based practices but what does that really mean? True evidence-based strategies are backed by solid research, not just intuition. For example, highlighting while reading feels helpful but is actually ineffective at promoting learning. In contrast, retrieval practice (or testing) is proven to boost learning. At Academics Plus, we use retrieval, interleaving and spaced practice, all methods grounded in research. Our focus is on building skills, with content as the space to apply them."
How do diagnostic evaluations and measurable, data-driven goals shape learning journeys for students?
"We use standardized and in-house assessments to understand each learner’s strengths, gaps and challenges. What do they already know how to do? What needs review? What have they yet to learn? What are possible contributing factors? We then review school data, including 504s and IEPs, and create personalized plans with parents to build skills and address needs."
How do you collaborate with schools, teachers and families to ensure continuity between classroom and center?
"With parental consent, we meet each child’s classroom teachers upon enrollment and annually in the fall, and I attend 504 and ARD/IEP meetings. Our goal is collaborative advocacy, supporting students’ unique needs while guiding parents through the process."
What first drew you to this field, and what made you decide to purchase and lead Academics Plus in 2015?
"I think I was born to be a teacher — I just didn’t realize it at first. In high school, I often helped friends with math and loved working as a music teacher at a youth theater. A college professor once suggested teaching, but I didn’t consider it until I explored other majors and realized I love learning broadly. I switched to education and became a teacher. Joining Academics Plus showed me the power of personalized instruction, helping students catch up and get ahead. When the opportunity to lead Academics Plus came in 2015, I jumped at the chance."
Outside the center, you're involved in civic groups such as Rotary and Youth Services. Have you supported any youth-focused nonprofits recently, and how do those efforts align with Academics Plus’s mission?
"We love being part of the community! I currently serve on the boards of Volunteer McKinney and the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. I’m also the 2025–26 president of the McKinney Rotary Club and a proud Paul Harris Society member. Academics Plus supports the McKinney Education Foundation by awarding a $1,000 scholarship annually to an MISD student, and I also volunteer as a grant and scholarship reader and event volunteer for MEF. Each July, we collect donations and promote the Back-to-School Fair for the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County. We love McKinney and we love to serve."
Academics Plus was named 2025 Small Business of the Year by the McKinney Chamber of Commerce.
"It’s no secret: skill development takes practice. Have children read daily and review math facts or SAT problems consistently. Whether it’s books, articles or exercises, a little each day makes a difference," says Stephanie Talley.