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First Baptist Brandon Expands Weekday Children's Program

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Jeff Lukens

Published: April 23, 2007

First Baptist Brandon Christian Academy Church is revising its curriculum and expanding.

"After 43 years of providing quality weekday education for preschool age children in its Kindergarten and Wee Care programs," Principal Cynthia Crawford explains, "we continue to grow."

The academy will revise its program to the A Beka Book reading curriculum beginning at preschool age 3, and on through kindergarten. This curriculum emphasizes phonics, language development and reading. Also included in the curriculum are science, mathematics and social studies.

"All of our classes will use Bible lessons and character-building through hands-on activities and interactive instruction," said Crawford. "Children of all ages enjoy music and art as part their daily activity. The mission of First Baptist Brandon Christian Academy is to honor and serve Jesus Christ by providing academic and Biblical excellence for boys and girls while developing their faith in partnership with the home, the church and the community. Our motto is, 'Equipping Children for Biblical and Academic Excellence'."

Moreover, an affiliated school on the same campus -- the First Baptist Brandon School of Fine Arts -- has a longstanding history of creative expression in a Christian context through music, drama, art and puppetry. The two schools together will provide a unique opportunity for students who wish to pursue their artistic and musical abilities on a higher level. As the academy grows, Crawford anticipates the opportunity for students to participate in choir, band and orchestra as well.

Crawford credits the work of ministerial staff and members of the church family with developing the present program, and their efforts to grow in the future.

"We have a wonderful program for infants through 2-year-olds for the 2007-2008 school year," she said. "This comes from a team of highly-qualified people who have devoted more than a year of researching and developing age-appropriate activities. Lessons are designed to promote social, intellectual, physical and spiritual growth."

Classes for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds are rapidly filling, and the academy continues to receive inquiries from the community.

Crawford said, "If we see a strong community need, the school will gladly consider opening additional classes in these age groups."

The academy, a ministry of First Baptist Church of Brandon, has been approved by The Association of Christian Schools International (ASCI), The Southern Baptist Association of Christian Schools, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and The Child Development Education Alliance.

The academy is on Parsons Avenue, one block north of State Road 60. Hours are 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., with flexible class options for each age group. The office can be reached at (813) 689-9435 from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Inquirers may also visit the church Web site at www.fbcbrandon.org. Information on the Academy may be found on the Children's Ministry pages with a link to the academy.

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