Upper School Academics | The First Academy

Student Discussion in the Alumni Commons

2020 #1 Best Christian School in Orange County

The First Academy Upper School

Recognized as Orange County’s #1 Christian High School by Niche.com.

The First Academy Upper School, grades 9-12, is comprised of 475+ students split between five houses and a faculty of forty certified, degreed professionals. In January 2009, the Upper School Building opened its doors to students. This world-class facility has enhanced our academic rigor and enriched our diverse extra-curricular programming.

The building includes four science labs, a media production center, computer lab, and spacious art facilities. Each classroom has video projection capabilities designed to support an individual teacher’s instructional style.

While we are very proud of this structure, we are more excited about the professional faculty and staff who have chosen to make The First Academy their career home. Teaching and the educational milieu is our top priority, and has become the basis of a strong and rigorous academic program. To achieve this type of atmosphere, we strive to hire teachers who meet simple criteria: mastery in their subject area, an affinity for the Upper School learner, strong teaching skills, and a love for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I have had nothing short of an amazing experience at Upper School. Every single teacher cared for me like a friend. There are countless opportunities for student leadership, which is highly encouraged by the school. The Christian environment coupled with the opportunity to utilize a curriculum that is highly personalized to one’s specific needs, sets TFA apart from any other high school. Overall, TFA is a fantastic place to have spent the last seven years of my life!”

– Alumni Review on Niche.com, Class of 2019

In meeting these criteria, our faculty is our Living Curriculum. As teachers, we partner with parents in the education of students for Kingdom service and ministry. Our goal is to equip students for a lifetime of serving, and we believe that God calls people to be doctors, lawyers, scientists, business owners, and scores of other professionals for the sake of the Gospel of Christ. We take this goal very seriously and are proud to serve as educators of students who are changing the world.

Looking for College Advising? Visit the Guidance page for more information.

Upper School Contacts

Dr. Shayne Grove,
Principal
(407) 206-8659

Kacey Chambers,
Assistant Principal
(407) 206-8632

Mary Gooseman,
Administrative Assist.
(407) 206-8659

Summer Assignment Note: Only AP students are required to complete a summer assignment. All other students are encouraged to complete the English Honors or CP assignment, but it is not mandatory.