Robert Cutrer

Robert Cutrer, whose diverse background covers medieval history and English literature, has been named the new head of school at Optima Classical Academy Gladiolus, Fort Myers’ first tuition-free classical academy scheduled to open this fall.

Cutrer is world educated and considered an expert in medieval and Icelandic studies. He is a noted author, lecturer, researcher and teacher in the field. His extensive teaching acumen includes roles as an instructor in medieval studies, old English, old Norse literature as well as instruction in English literature and composition.

Cutrer founded the steering committee at Oxford for the study of old Norse emotions. He was founder and executive board member at Westminster Classical Academy in Toronto and chair of English and foreign languages at Whitfield Academy in Smyrna, Ga., from 2007-2010.

“Witnessing the school coming together and the promises it offers, I cannot help but be filled with hope for our students,” Cutrer said. “Pythagoras said, ‘A lack of education is the mother of all suffering,’ and that is why we made sure this school was free and accessible to all.”

Cutrer’s diverse life experiences extend well beyond his academic background. He won the 2005 Blue Grass Games Fencing tournament and won gold and bronze medals at the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments. An accomplished musician, Cutrer won best musical performance three consecutive years in college for writing homecoming musicals. He attended college on a partial music scholarship.

Fluent in four languages and proficient in two others, Cutrer is currently working towards a PhD in medieval and early modern centre from the University of Sydney after earning two master’s degrees in centre for medieval studies from the University of Toronto and medieval Icelandic studies from Haskoli Islands University. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from Georgetown College.

The K-8 Optima Classic Academy Gladiolus, currently under construction at the corner of Gladiolus and Summerlin in Fort Myers and accepting registrations for all grade levels, features a content-rich curriculum and virtuous education that nurtures a genuine love of learning and critical thinking rooted in fundamental truths.

About Optima Classical Academy

Optima Classical Academy Gladiolus, Fort Myers’ newest tuition-free public charter school, is open for Fall 2024 K-8 registration. Our world-class curriculum encompasses math, civics, literature, and the arts, fostering well-rounded, virtuous students with a thirst for knowledge. We offer top-notch facilities, proven teaching methods, and innovative technology to challenge your child to reach their fullest potential. Visit gladiolus.optimaclassical.org to apply today or register for parent information meetings to learn more about how to get private school quality education for free.