First Discoveries
Academy

FAQ for Kindergarten and Primary

What ages and grades does this program serve?

​Children must be five years old by September 1st to enroll in kindergarten.  Our Kindergarten/Primary programs typically serve children ages 5 to 8 years old, usually from kindergarten through second grade.

What is the difference between Homeschool Hybrid and Nature Club / Homeschool Enrichment?​

More information coming soon to learn more about Homeschool Hybrid and Nature Club / Homeschool Enrichment.

Do you accept state scholarship programs?​

Yes!  We have been a direct pay provider with Step Up for Students since 2016.  Depending on the program that you choose, we accept the Florida Tax Credit (FTC), FES Equal Opportunities (FES-EO), Unique Abilities (UA) and FES Personalized Education Program (FES PEP).  As a direct pay provider, we invoice Step Up for Students directly and receive our payments from them, so families do not have to worry about reimbursements.

Depending on the program selected, the scholarship program will pay all or most of the annual fees and tuition.  If there is a small balance due after your scholarship, you can request to have the balance waived if your family qualifies for free and reduced lunch and/or if you are willing to volunteer at school.

Do you offer drop in programs?​

Our programs require a full year commitment from families.  As a small school, we focus on building relationships with children and families.  We believe that creating a School Family is an essential part of our mission as a school and we look forward to working with children and families throughout the entire school year. Whether your child attends a five day a week program or a part time schedule, we will reserve a space for your child for the entire school year.  We are excited to watch your child grow and learn this year!

What happens if my child is absent?​

If your child will be absent for any reason, please notify the school using the parent communication app.  We understand that children will be absent due to occasional illness and that families will schedule time off for special events, trips or other reasons.  Your child's annual tuition secures their space at school for the entire school year; there is no reduction in tuition for absences.

What time is arrival and pick-up?

Families will use our parent communication app to sign children in and out each day.  Be sure to have your phone available to scan the QR code.  If you don't have your phone available, you can use your personal code on the school tablet.  Each family member that drops off or picks up will need a code for check in and check out.

Drop-off time is between 9:00 and 9:30 am.  If your child needs to arrive before 9:00, our extended care program is available starting at 8:00 am for an additional fee.  If your child has an appointment and needs to arrive after 9:30 am, notify the school via our parent communication app and bring a doctor's note to school.  There is no late arrival after 9:30 (without a doctor's note for an appointment) or 10:30 am (with a doctor's note).

Pick-up time is between 1:45 and 2:00 pm.  Be sure to arrive on time for pick up.  A late fee applies for pick ups after 2:00 pm.  Extended care is available after 2:00 pm for an additional fee.

 
Can I volunteer at school?
We love parent volunteers!  Do you want to come play a musical instrument for the classes or read a story?  Does your family have a special pet or hobby that you would like to share?  Are you available to help with cleaning?  Do you love to plan and set up / clean up for special events?  Would you like to donate for class events or parties?  Let us know how you would like to be involved at school! 


Does my child need to attend school every day?

Our kindergarten and primary programs provide opportunities every day for children to work, play and learn.  To benefit from the program, we encourage children to attend regularly.  Obviously, children will occasionally miss school due to illness or for other reasons.  Children may also miss school for planned absences, including family trips and special events.  Please communicate with the school about absences and when we can expect your child to return.