Private | K-12 | 160 students |
First Baptist Academy is a private school in O Fallon, Illinois. It serves 160 students in grades K-12.
This school has an average Community Rating of 3 out of 5 stars, based on reviews from 14 school community members.
School highlights:
| COMPARE | SCHOOL | GREATSCHOOLS RATING | COMMUNITY RATING |
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0 miles | |||
0 miles | |||
Laverna Evans Elementary School 0.5 miles | |||
Estelle Kampmeyer Elementary School 1.2 miles |
This school is really growing. If you want your child in a productive environment you need to come in and observe the school and make your own opinion. It is academically challenging . and the teachers really care. My children have been in both public and private education and I could easily find things to complain about. There are some amazing teachers here are a lot of these reviews just seem angry. Look at the classrooms and you can see the care and thought inside. Not sure about the other post concerning academics because I have seen the work in both elementary and high school . Children attend Spanish, Art, Music (with the option to do drama), they can play sports, and have lots of opportunities to do mission work. Seems well rounded to me!
The church is great, the school? Not so much. Thought the students say no bulling ever happens at this school, my child has been bullied. Also the curriculum is extremely disappointing and have no gifted and talented programs. My daughter who has a GPA of 4.0, and all 100% on ever test and quiz complains about how easy everything is. In my opinion, even public schools seem to be the better option. They do not have challenging enough academic programs.
To date we have had a wonderful experience at FBA. Teachers are highly dedicated, wonderfully trained, knowledgeable, caring, and loving individuals. This school does an amazing job achieving it's mission and focus of academic excellence under a strong Biblical foundation..."hearts that seek God and minds that pursue truth!" What a wonderful environment for a child to grow and learn in. I'm so thankful for FBA!
I would recomend First Baptist Academy for student K-2nd grade. I feel the curriculum in the upper grades on scratched the surface of what students should be learning. The principal is extremely hypocritical in her dealings with students, staff, and parents. I didn't think political games were played in christian environments, however they are and it is obvious within this institution. In my opinion, if you are looking for a quality christian education, this is not the place to find it. Things may look great on the outside, however you might want to check to see if the inside of the cup is clean before drinking out of it.
Reading some of these replies makes me wonder are we talking about the school or the church? I thought this was a school website. I am sure the church is wonderful and all it has to offer, but the school made me feel like I have no idea what is going on with my child. I have had one email from the teacher all year. Bringing my child here I thought we would have a great education. I find also that when a parent questions anything the administrator all though very nice is not open to hearing anything that could help. I cannot believe there is no Christmas program for the school kids - unless you belong to the church then there was one. In all my years I have never had that experience with a school. No spelling bee, nothing for kids in the lower grades.
Coming to FBA I thought it was going to be a continue growth in my childs education. We had a wonderful experience in Christian education and then we moved here we were quite disappointed with the school. I will say the administrator is a very nice loving person who cares about the students. But when it comes to pushing teachers to do what is in the best interest of a student she is not. If your child is above average or maybe needs extra help this is not the school. Especially in the lower grade levels. I have known five people to take their children out of the school alone for this reason. I have since found a better school. I was wowed by the big church and the school setting, but after my child started there I was not happy with the curriculum.
Since first grade, I've been to seven different schools, and this is the best I've ever attended! The teachers are great, and they work on developing a personal relationship with each student. For me, it feels like a home away from home. In response to a previous comment, most of the teachers have masters degrees, and, the principle's daughter that was so much of an issue has three college degrees, two of them masters. The teachers also focus on helping the students develop their relationship with God. Also, any concern that you have, they will gladly listen, and then pray about what to do and allow God to direct their decisions. In addition, the academics are very challenging, and they are in the process of getting accredited by ACSi. The only bad thing is the sports program, which is relatively small, but growing steadily. Other than that, this school is awesome!
In reference to the one star rating given above, I have to comment. The information is highly falsified and misrepresentative of the school and staff. First, all of the full time classroom teachers have degrees and are certified to teach. The principal's daughter was hired and taught there before the principal came into that position. Several teachers on staff also carry Masters degrees. Both of my children attended there for 6 years and have received the best treatment from a caring and concerned staff. The teachers were honest, helpful, and connected well with parents on important issues. My kids received a top-notch education and in addition learned about how to set a Christ-like example for others. I couldn't be more pleased with the results or environment.
I have seen first hand the quality programs in place at this church. I'm so excited that they are offering an alternative to public schools and doing so with their normal 110% effort. The teachers and administrators are professional and caring. I have also had a chance to sub at their pre-school program and am always an advocate for it. Thanks FBA for investing in young peoples lives, offering quality learning and sharing Christ's love with them.
My girls have been attending First Baptist Academy the past three years. Not only are the teachers phenomenal, but the administrator knows each child by name. I know when I drop my children off in the morning they will receive a quality education and be loved for who they are....each a unique individual!
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