Distinct Abilities Learning

A Christian Alternative to Unique Abilities Education

An Christian Alternative to Unique Abilities Education

Your child’s educational journey probably looks different from others. The First Academy’s Distinct Abilities Learning program is designed for families that value a Christ-centered education and a strong academic foundation but also need a unique approach to teaching that works best for their child’s specific learning needs.

Here, students learn on campus in a small student-to-teacher ratio that promotes achievement across academic, cognitive, and spiritual areas. It combines specialized instruction with a joyful community and individualized progress with a true sense of belonging.

Discover how our approach to alternative Unique Abilities Education in Orlando can help your family.

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What Is Distinct Abilities Learning?

The Distinct Abilities Learning (DAL) program is a specialized academic alternative for K–12 students that creates a Christ-centered environment of learning and development for students with unique abilities. DAL offers a unique approach to teaching students with various learning needs academically, cognitively, and spiritually, providing the structure of on-campus classes with a small student-to-teacher ratio to promote student achievement. Scheduling options include a 5-day track (Monday–Friday) for students in grades K–12, while limited 3-day (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and 2-day (Tuesday, Thursday) tracks are available subject to current enrollment capacity.

Several young children in a playground holding up a multi-colored parachute

Exclusive Program Offerings

While we offer a variety of specialized pathways, our primary program offerings include ESE Foundations and ESE Success. Please note that additional specialized programs, such as Journey to Independence and our Inclusion Hybrid model, are available by invitation only to ensure the most appropriate placement for every student.

At The First Academy’s Distinct Learning Abilities program, we believe every student is a unique image-bearer of God. Our program is designed to support the whole child.

Our approach includes:

  • Christian Teaching & Biblical Worldview Immersion: Integrating faith into every aspect of the learning experience.
  • Student Academic Plans / Goals: Developing customized roadmaps for individual success.
  • Job Skills Training: Preparing students for future vocational opportunities through hands-on learning.
  • Social Skills Training: Fostering respectful relationship building and confident communication.
  • Elective Opportunities: Providing access to diverse courses to explore individual interests and talents.
  • K–12 Grade Level Appropriate Curriculum: Ensuring academic growth through age-appropriate and rigorous standards.
  • Physical Education: Promoting health, wellness, and teamwork within a supportive environment.
  • Smaller Class Sizes: Ensuring personalized attention and a supportive “Joyful Community” for every student.

Our team is deeply committed to partnering with families to nurture each student’s potential.

Program Support

N. Grindle

Robyn Whipple

Interim Director

(407) 206-8801

Email Mrs. Whipple

N. Grindle

Dawn Romero

Program Coordinator

(407) 206-8801

Email Mrs. Romero

Partner with Us in Your Child’s Education

Take the next step in joining The First Academy’s Distinct Abilities Learning Program by submitting an application to partner with our team in nurturing your child’s academic, cognitive, and spiritual growth.

apply today