Academics for real life
FAQ
What is a Charter School?
Charter schools are non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations that have a contract or charter to provide the same educational services to students as district public schools. They are non-sectarian public schools that operate with freedom from many of the regulations that apply to traditional public schools. Charter schools are designed to improve learning opportunities for all students and to encourage the use of innovative teaching and learning methods. Focus Academy is tuition-free and is run by our Board of Directors consisting of local Tampa area residents.
How can I apply?
Please see our Application Process page which details the information we will need in reviewing your student's application. In addition, if you would like more information, or would like to be on our mailing list, please contact us.
What type of pre-admission testing (academic or psychological) is required?
Baseline data for math and reading, IEP (if available), any recent evaluations that have been done, plus a questionnaire to help us get to know your child. We will also schedule a face to face meeting with the student and parents.
How many teachers and paraprofessionals will be hired? Will they all be ESE teachers? What kind of experience will they have?
We are planning to hire four teachers and four paraprofessionals. All will be highly qualified and experienced, and all teachers will be certified in ESE.
What other instructional staff will Focus Academy have?
We will have a Physical Education teacher, a drama therapist, a music teacher, an art teacher, as well as occupational therapist and physical therapist.
Will parents be able to meet the staff? When?
Focus Academy will host a “Meet the Teachers” Open House for enrolled students and their families before the start of school in August.
What technologies will be in place when the school opens?
Our goal is to offer our students state-of-the-art technology. We will start with Apple TVs and widescreen LED televisions in each classroom, as well as iPads for classroom use. We will continually upgrade our technology to meet the ever changing needs of our students and ensure our technology remains state-of-the-art.
Does Focus Academy require uniforms?
Yes. We have polo shirts with the logo embroidered for all students, and either jeans or jean shorts (jean skirts are acceptable for girls.) The dress code will be available in more detail in the student handbook.
Take a tour of the Focus Academy campus.
View the video below.
