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What Makes a Great School?

Every parent wants their child to attend a great school – not just a good school. When my wife and I moved our family to Orlando several years ago, we found a great school in The First Academy.

On the first day of the new school year, I observed with apprehension from a second story window as my middle child walked onto a playground crowded with unfamiliar faces. With a lump in my throat, I watched as he stood alone with his hands in his pockets, obviously filled with uncertainty and nearly paralyzed by fear. What happened next told me much about what makes The First Academy a great school.

It turns out that I wasn’t the only one observing. His teacher saw the worry on his small, furrowed brow, too. She approached my son, took him by the hand, and walked him toward the monkey bars. I could see her bend down and introduce him to several boys who were joyously greeting one another, and so at home within a familiar place. Within moments, those boys were welcoming my son into their fold, and they have since become treasured friends.

That moment was powerful for me as I observed a great teacher in action. Great teachers understand that true education involves more than just teaching the mind – it begins with reaching the heart. Great teachers understand that students aren’t interested in finding out how much a teacher knows until they find out how much a teacher cares.

Teachers at The First Academy are called the Living Curriculum. They come in all different shapes and sizes, have varied backgrounds and experiences and possess unique personality types – I believe there are identifiable beliefs and qualities that set them apart. For example, Living Curriculum teachers are Christ-followers, relationship builders, effective communicators, parent partners, and student advocates.

Besides our exemplary teachers, The First Academy is also blessed with other qualities necessary to be a great school:

• A modern, secure campus with state-of-the-art infrastructure supporting the latest in learning environment technology
• An award-winning academic curriculum, including our Lower School being named to the prestigious list of Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education
• A world-class athletic complex that is home to numerous state championships
• A vibrant, award-winning fine arts program
• A commitment to character development and service to others

The First Academy is a great school. I invite you to experience it for yourself and your family. Please call our Office of Admissions today to schedule a campus visit. Walk the halls, sit in on a class, listen to the conversations of our students and faculty, and I believe you will recognize what makes The First Academy distinctive and a great school for your children and your family.

Click here to view our Senior Students Hall of Fame video and hear from our parents how their student's life has been impacted by The First Academy's Living Curriculum.

In His Joy,

Dr. Steve D. Whitaker, Ph.D.
Head of School