The First Academy
General Information
About (Overview)
The First Academy (TFA) is a private Christian, college-preparatory school located in Orlando, Florida, serving students from preschool through 12th grade. Established in 1987, the school emphasizes a Christ-centered education that integrates faith, character, and academic excellence. At The First Academy, faculty and staff focus not only on intellectual growth but also spiritual formation and leadership development, helping students “learn, love, and lead.”
With modern facilities, a robust curriculum, and extracurricular opportunities in arts, athletics, and service, TFA offers a comprehensive educational environment where small-class sizes and close community foster individual attention and personal growth. The school’s mission emphasizes character before career, service before self, and participation as a way of life, aligning academic rigor with Christian values and a global perspective. Every graduate from the Upper School boasts a 100% college-acceptance rate, demonstrating the school’s success in preparing students for higher education and beyond.
Contact Information
- Address: 2667 Bruton Blvd, Orlando, FL 32805, USA
- Phone Number: (407) 206-8602
- Email Address: admissions@thefirstacademy.org (general admissions contact per school site)
School Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1987 |
| Motto | Character before career; wisdom beyond scholarship; service before self |
| Grades Served | Preschool – Grade 12 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 15:1 |
| Enrollment | Around 1,400 students |
| School Type | Private, Christian, College Preparatory |
| Campus Location | Urban/Suburban Orlando, Florida |
The First Academy Rankings
| Category | Rank / Note |
|---|---|
| Overall Niche Grade | A+ — Best Private K-12 Schools in Florida |
| Average SAT Score | ~1220 (per Niche) |
| College Acceptance Rate | 100% for Upper School graduates |
The First Academy Academics
The First Academy Faculties / Departments
- English & Humanities
- Mathematics & Computer Science
- Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science)
- Social Studies & Global Studies
- World Languages & Cultural Studies
- Visual & Performing Arts
- Physical Education & Athletics
- Counseling & College Preparation
- Faith & Character Development
- Technology & Innovation
The First Academy Courses and Programs / Majors
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses across disciplines (Niche)
- Honors courses designed for academic challenge
- Fine arts programs including band, orchestra, theater, visual arts
- Strong athletics program offering more than 20 sports (On3)
- Service-learning and leadership development embedded in curriculum
- Preschool through Upper School curriculum aligned for college readiness
- Hybrid/Distinction programs for unique student needs
Online Learning
While The First Academy prioritizes in-person instruction, the school leverages digital platforms and blended learning tools to supplement classroom work, support individualized student pace, and extend learning beyond the traditional schedule. During exceptional circumstances (e.g., weather disruptions, health mandates), the school has demonstrated flexibility in delivering virtual instruction, ensuring continuity of learning while maintaining the Christ-centered culture and student engagement.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Approx. 1220 |
| ACT | Approx. 27 |
| Graduation Rate | 100% (Upper School graduates) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The First Academy maintains strong retention through all grade levels, with nearly all Upper School students graduating and being accepted to college. The consistent 100% college-acceptance rate reflects the school’s focus on preparing students academically, spiritually, and socially to succeed in higher education and beyond. The nurturing environment, comprehensive support services, and strong community contribute to long-term student engagement and fulfillment of the school mission.
The First Academy Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The First Academy seeks students who demonstrate academic motivation, character alignment with the school’s Christian values, and readiness for their learning programs. While a specific GPA or test score threshold is not publicly mandated, the average metrics (~1220 SAT, ~27 ACT) indicate the level of college-preparatory readiness expected of Upper School applicants.
The First Academy Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate / Notes |
|---|---|
| General Admission | Rolling admissions, competitive private school |
| Upper School | Admission based on academic records, faith alignment, interview process |
The First Academy Application Requirements
Prospective students of The First Academy must complete a comprehensive application packet, including previous academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores (where applicable), and participate in an interview with admissions staff and/or faculty. As a Christian school, TFA also assesses alignment with its faith-based mission and student’s willingness to participate in the school community and culture. The process is designed to ensure both academic fit and cultural/faith compatibility, thus promoting a cohesive student body committed to the school’s ethos of leadership and service.
Application Process
- Schedule a campus visit and tour of The First Academy.
- Complete the application form (online or paper) with student and parent information.
- Submit previous school transcripts, test scores, and recommendations.
- Attend admissions interview and placement assessment (if required).
- Receive acceptance decision and complete enrollment paperwork.
- Attend orientation and begin classes for the upcoming academic year.
The First Academy Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Rolling – early applications encouraged |
| Deadline for Upper School Entry | Varies by grade and space availability |
| Decision Notification | Shortly after interview/assessment |
| School Year Begins | Late August |
Essay Prompt
Some applicants may be asked to submit a short personal statement or essay expressing their faith journey, academic aspirations, and the ways they hope to contribute to The First Academy community. This helps admissions faculty evaluate fit beyond academics and gauge alignment with the school mission of learning, love, and leadership.
The First Academy Scholarships
The First Academy offers merit-based scholarship opportunities and need-based financial aid to qualified families. These are designed to support students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to the school’s Christian values. Specific amounts and eligibility criteria vary each year, and families are encouraged to consult the school’s financial aid office for details.
The First Academy Tuition and Fees
| Category | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Upper School) | ~$26,800 annually for upper grades |
| Application Fee | ~$155 (per Niche data) |
| Technology/Materials Fee | Varies by grade level and program |
The First Academy Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The First Academy serves over 1,400 students from preschool through grade 12. The student body reflects a variety of backgrounds though is unified by the Christian mission and the school community culture. According to review data, the average GPA is approx. 3.76 and the school fosters academic excellence within a faith-based context.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The First Academy is committed to inclusive education and offers tuition assistance and support services to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. While specific percentages of low-income or students with disabilities are not publicly detailed, the school states its dedication to character development, service, and belonging for all enrolled students, including those with unique learning needs and diverse abilities.
Student Body
| Category | Number / Tag |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | ~1,400 students |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | ~14:1 |
| Graduation Rate | 100% (Upper School) |
Diversity
The First Academy fosters a diverse and inclusive culture rooted in Christian faith and community. Students from different backgrounds—racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and academic—are brought together in a common pursuit of excellence, service, and spiritual growth. The school emphasizes relational learning, personal mentorship, and community engagement, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose across student demographics. By intertwining academic challenge with character development and service opportunities, TFA prepares students not only for college and career but also for meaningful contributions to society and global citizenship.
Average Earnings
While specific alumni earnings data is not publicly published, the rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, small class sizes, leadership development, and 100% college acceptance rate position graduates of The First Academy for strong postsecondary success. Alumni often matriculate at competitive universities and pursue careers in business, STEM, arts, ministry, and service-oriented fields, benefiting from a foundation of strong academic preparation, character, and community values.
The First Academy Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The First Academy employs faculty and staff who are not only academically qualified but also committed to the school’s Christian mission. Teachers are often described as “Living Curriculum Influencers”—professionals who anchor their teaching in faith, relationship-building, and servant leadership. The school offers a secure, modern campus environment and supports ongoing professional development and innovation in teaching.
Faculty Profiles
The faculty at TFA hold advanced degrees, are experienced in college-preparatory contexts, and are active in mentoring students academically, spiritually, and in leadership roles. They lead programs in fine arts, athletics, STEM, service learning, and faith development. Their expertise and commitment support the school’s distinctive mission of producing well-rounded graduates equipped for life beyond high school in both mind and character.
The First Academy Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The First Academy’s campus is designed to support a vibrant student life rooted in academics, faith, arts, and athletics. While the school does not provide on-campus housing (as it is a day school), the campus offers numerous amenities: a modern student center, impressive athletic facilities (including the Payne Stewart Athletic Complex and Cramer Family Field House), arts venues, and community spaces designed to encourage student engagement, service, and leadership. Student life emphasizes participation, teamwork, spiritual growth, and meaningful relationships with peers and faculty.
Transportation
Students commute to The First Academy via personal vehicles, carpools, or school-arranged transportation when available. The Orlando location is accessible within the metropolitan area, supporting families living in and around Central Florida. The campus design and scheduling accommodate student involvement before and after typical school hours in athletics, the arts, and service-oriented activities.