We are eternally grateful for the impact The First Academy has had on our family. I was privileged to be part of this amazing school from the day the school opened all the way to graduation; being part of the first graduating class to have spent all 13 years there. I met my husband Robert when he began attending in the 10th grade and now get to see our three children, Madison (12), Amy Grace (10) and John (6) walking the same halls that we did. I came to know Christ at age 6 and TFA helped to deepen my walk and knowledge of Scripture through the strong education and influence of some amazing teachers like Kathy Truex and Scott Toenges.

I was impacted by their strong relationship with Christ and the way they affirmed each child, not only academically but spiritually as well. Inspired by the teachers I had and my mom who worked in Early Childhood, I pursued my passion and went on to receive my degree in Early Childhood Education. Currently, my passion is fulfilled in raising my children and substituting at TFA. It is a privilege to give back to the school that gave so much to me. Robert was grateful to have been mentored and influenced by TFA teachers like Ralph Walton, Doug Farley and Jason Dukes (who later married us!) and answered the call of Christ in high school. He went on to receive his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from UCF. He is proud to continue the family business his father founded and is committed each day to be a faithful steward and make an eternal impact in the lives of the employees, vendors, and customers.

When Rob and I graduated in 2000, we joined our senior sidewalk squares with a cross. This was to remind us that we don’t know what the future holds, but we will continue to submit to Christ’s will in our lives, whatever that may be. God has been faithful through these years in leading and guiding us. TFA has played an important part in both our faith foundation and now in supporting us in laying this same foundation in the lives of our children.