Building Bridges to Success: Benefits of Staying in SFCA
As parents, you’ve watched your child thrive at Southwest Florida Christian Academy through middle school. But now, as high school approaches, you’re facing a familiar challenge: your teen may be looking for something new — more friends, more athletic options, or a wider range of classes. It’s tough to hear that they might be feeling like the “grass is greener on the other side,” especially when they’ve been with familiar faces through the years.
A Safe, Supportive Community.
While you understand their desire for new experiences, you’re also aware of the many uncertainties that come with different environments. SFCA has been a safe, supportive community where your teen has grown in confidence and character.
Now, as you consider what’s best for the next chapter, it’s time to explore the many benefits our Christian high school has to offer. Staying the course might just be the bridge your teen needs to discover the opportunities they’re looking for — right where they are.
Academic Continuity
Moving from middle school to high school can feel overwhelming, especially when academics become more challenging. And, changing schools during this time can add even more stress. That’s why at SFCA, your teen will experience a smooth transition from middle school to high school because we focus on academic continuity and personalized support.
Here’s how we bridge the gap:
- Early High School Credits: Eighth graders can take high school-level courses like Algebra 1, building relationships with high school teachers and earning credits early.
- Personalized Academic Support: Our dedicated counselors and academic coaches know each student by name, making sure they’re on the right path with the right courses, whether it’s honors, AP, or dual enrollment.
- Consistent Policies: Middle and high school students share the same handbook, so students don’t have difficulties adjusting to new academic or community expectations.
SFCA provides a supportive environment that guides your teen, providing support as they stay on track academically and are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
of our graduates receive college acceptance.
Marks the beginning of personalized college planning at our school.
Prep begins in middle school, with targeted support continuing throughout high school.
Connect with Us Today
Discover how choosing a K-12 school like SFCA can make your teen’s high school journey a rewarding one. Get your questions answered today by reaching out to Amy Long, our Director of Marketing & Admissions, at (239) 936-8865 x1472 or amy.long@sfcakings.org.
Thriving Community
Meeting new friends is exciting, but there’s real value in holding onto friendships your teen has spent years building. At SFCA, we create a tight-knit community that supports those lasting connections while fostering new ones, ensuring your teen feels supported and at home.
Inside our preschool classrooms, you will find:
Accessible Faculty and Staff
Our leadership team, faculty, and staff are always accessible, making it easy for your teen to feel comfortable approaching them with concerns or just to chat. Their presence allows our high schoolers to feel known and valued.
A Family-Like Atmosphere
Many students and graduates talk about how much they miss SFCA’s staff, faculty, and the close connections they’ve made. In the day-to-day interactions, your teen will feel the warmth of our community. High school students experience camaraderie and support among peers that are often hard to find in larger schools.
Engaging Community Events
We bring everyone together through events such as pep rallies, Spiritual Emphasis Day, and Homecoming activities. One of the highlights is our “Unplugged Week,” where high school students and staff spend four days at Lake Ocklawaha, disconnecting from technology to focus on building connections, team spirit, and spiritual growth.
The biggest reason I love the community at SFCA is everyone’s love for Jesus. Over any education or sports team, the school prioritizes my relationship with Jesus over it all. They want nothing more than for each student to leave here with a strong love for Jesus, which has helped me grow my faith as I have grown up.
– Cross Newton, SFCA Junior
Enhanced Extracurricular Activities
At SFCA, your teen can enjoy a wide range of extracurricular activities while playing a bigger role in them than they might in a larger school. We provide unique opportunities for students to discover — and grow — in their God-given gifts.
Here’s why our extracurriculars stand out:
- More Opportunities, More Involvement: Because of our smaller size, your teen can participate more and truly engage in a variety of activities. Whether they’re athletic, artistic, or service-minded, there’s something for everyone.
- Christ-Centered Values: At SFCA, your teen will be guided by Christian coaches and teachers who not only develop their skills but also pour into their spiritual growth, helping them build strong character and faith.
For the Athletically-Minded
Your child is unique, and so are their college and future plans. This is why we offer students one-on-one advising, readiness assessments, and the Scoir platform to explore colleges nationwide.
For the Arts-Minded
From sophomore year, SFCA provides access to the U.S. Department of Labor’s profiler to help your child discover job positions, salaries, and daily job insights. Plus, on-campus college visits enhance their career exploration experience.
For the Service and Ministry-Minded
Families can easily connect to Parchment to view transcripts and Big Future for scholarships. We also provide information about FAFSA aid for tuition assistance, and senior workshops prepare your child for essays and applications.
For the Future Leaders
Students can explore specialized tech and health academic pathways. In addition, they’ll be offered the SAT/ACT and CLEP exam prep, while SFCA’s dual enrollment and AP course offerings support your child for college plans and beyond.
Streamlined Support Services
When students feel supported from the start, they can focus on what really matters — learning. With our streamlined support services, your teen won’t have to worry about getting lost in the hallways or finding someone to sit with at lunch. They’ll feel empowered and ready to dive into their education right away.
How do you help your child in this area? You can motivate them to participate in class discussions and engage in collaborative projects to enhance how they speak and listen to others. Plus, they’ll also benefit from team sports to grow their capacity to work within a group. And if they’re interested, support them in taking on leadership roles in clubs, organizations, and service projects.
Orientation and Preparation
At SFCA, we provide a seamless shift from middle to high school with tailored support services. Before school starts, freshmen and new students attend orientations where they meet counselors, the principal, and seniors who guide them through what to expect in high school. Your teen will experience an early preparation that helps them feel confident and informed.
Ongoing Support and Engagement
On the first day, Student Government officers help students navigate the campus. In March, we introduce course selections, followed by a meet and greet, so high school students can foster connections within our community. In addition, the counseling department, principal, and academic coach offer continuous support throughout the school year.
In working with students at SFCA, I strive to help them build self-confidence in their God-given abilities. I love to experience with them the satisfaction and reward of accomplishing great things. I work directly with many students in this way in the academic realm.”
– Daryl Falde, High School Lead Teacher
We’re committed to building Bridges at every stage of your teen’s journey.
Our supportive community, enriching activities, and dedicated services prepare your teen academically, spiritually, and socially, as they confidently step into their future.
Questions? Feel free to reach out to Amy Long, our Director of Marketing & Admissions, at (239) 936-8865 x1472 amy.long@sfcakings.org.