“My son used to shut down when it came to school. He never wanted to talk about it. After being part of Kut Different, I see a completely different kid. He’s confident, focused, and even talks about going to college. I never thought I’d hear that.”
- Parent of KD Mentee
Transformation You Can See.
Every number tells part of the story, but the real proof is in the boys themselves. Here’s what change looks like when mentorship, structure, and belief turn into action.
“Before Kut Different, I couldn’t keep up in class. I was failing math and hated reading out loud. Now, I’m proud of my grades. I went from a D to a B and I actually help my friends study.”
- KD Mentee
“I’ve seen the boys in Kut Different programs transform in the classroom. The ones who were skipping school or disrupting class are now showing up on time, turning in assignments, and even leading group projects. It’s not just grades, it’s character.”
- Local School Teacher
Our City Stands With Us.
Leaders across Ocala have endorsed Kut Different Academy as the bold next step for our community.
“Kut Different Academy is a bold and timely next step… supporting their mission means supporting the future of Ocala.”
- Pete Lee, Ocala City Manager
“Kut Different Academy represents an exciting and necessary evolution, a meaningful alternative to the school-to-prison pipeline.”
- Ire Bethea, Ocala City Council
“Their dedication to serving underserved populations aligns with broader efforts to ensure that every young person, regardless of background, has the chance to thrive.”
Florida Senate (Senator Stan McClain)
“Kut Different Academy is the next bold step, an intentionally designed school to build a school-to-career pipeline that disrupts the harmful cycle of the school-to-prison pipeline.”
- Ocala Police Department (Chief Michael Balken)
“I wholeheartedly support their mission and vision, and I encourage others to invest in, collaborate with, and support their mission.”
- Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney (William M. Gladson)
From Struggling Students to Confident Leaders.
+60% Academic Improvement
Students showed dramatic growth in reading and math after mentorship and tutoring.
-70% Absenteeism & Discipline Referrals
Engagement and behavior improved when boys were supported and held accountable.
100% Belief in What’s Possible
When boys are challenged and supported, they rise.
4x Family Engagement
Families became active partners in student growth.
When Boys Are Supported, Violence Drops and Learning Rises.
Florida’s schools are failing boys in grades, in behavior, in safety. Kut Different has already turned that failure into growth.
