In the Upper School, the final part of a classical education, the rhetoric stage, builds on the first two. The student of rhetoric applies the rule of logic learned in Middle School to the foundational information learned in the grammar grades and expresses conclusions in clear, forceful, elegant language.
Upper School students are nearing the age at which they are expected to go into the world and make disciples without the benefit of parents and teachers looking over them at all times. It is our purpose to teach students during these years to intentionally see the world through the lens of Scripture, equipping them with a Biblical worldview that they will carry throughout the rest of their lives. The Upper School years are filled with many challenges but also many celebrations.
During this time, we are often recognizing the academic (scholarships, internships, 30+ on the ACT, etc.), athletic (All-State honors, player of the week, etc.), and artistic (performances & superior ratings in Ensemble) accomplishments of our students. Even so, our first priority at First Baptist Academy will always remain the spiritual development of the students whom God has brought into our school. We have seen many graduates impact the world for Christ on the mission field, in the college setting, and in the workplace, and we are confident that this will only grow over time.
The desire of First Baptist Academy is to help students become confident, independent learners who develop in Godly character, are able to solve real-life problems, work cooperatively with others, develop unique personal talents, and fulfill God-given ambitions. By the end of the Upper School years, our prayer is that each student will reflect the characteristics of our Portrait of a Graduate.
Curriculum
Every teacher—by emphasizing a child-centered, integrated learning approach — actively engages the students in developing concepts, skills, and creativity. Recognizing differing teaching styles and personality strengths, considerable latitude is given to teachers in the manner of delivery of the material.
Students will follow one of the two core class tracks depending on skill level (College Prep or Honors). This will consist of the courses that are required to graduate, and they will also have the opportunity to choose a few select electives. All Upper School courses are semester-long (18 weeks).
Subject Areas: Math, English, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education & Wellness, Foreign Language, Fine Arts, and Bible.
Elective Options
All elective options are subject to change.
- Drama
- Musical Theater
- Visual Art
- Yearbook
- Church History
- Strength & Conditioning
- Physical Education
- Spanish III
- Spanish IV
- Rhetoric & Debate (required senior elective)
Graduation Requirements
First Baptist Academy is fully accredited and provides an Upper School course load that will allow students to continue their education at the post-secondary level. Students who transfer into the Academy in 10th grade or above will be required to provide an up-to-date transcript in order to develop a graduation plan. In the event that a student is in need of course recovery, we will evaluate that student (transfer or current) on an individual basis to see if they can recover the credit and remain on schedule for graduation.
English: 4 credits
Math: 4 credits (must be enrolled in a math class every year of high school)
Science: 3 credits
Social Studies: 4 credits
Bible: 4 credits (1 credit required for each year of FBA attendance)
Foreign Language: 2 credits (Honors Spanish 3 & 4 are electives offered to upperclassmen)
Physical Education: 1 credit
Wellness: 1 credit
Electives: 2 credits (Rhetoric & Debate is a required senior elective)
Fine Arts: 1 credit
TOTAL: 26 credits
*Note: ½ Activity PE credit can substitute for Physical Education requirement by participating in an FBA sponsored sport. This is recorded as a Pass/Fail grade and does not count in the student’s GPA. Additionally, the Strength and Conditioning elective can also substitute for Physical Education requirement.
Additional Opportunities
SERVICE PROJECTS
We challenge students to be Christ-like leaders by providing a consistent example and opportunities to serve at every grade level. One of the key elements of our Portrait of a Graduate is Mission Engagement, and we encourage our students to serve on and off campus. Our Upper School students take part in a wide variety of projects that allow them to practically impact the world for Christ in big and small ways.
Individualized Learning
In order to individualize learning, all of our teachers offer tutoring hours that can be utilized as needed. This provides the opportunity for students to be challenged in specific areas and strengthen skills that have not displayed competency. It also individualizes every child’s learning plan so they can achieve their full potential in Christ.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Middle School students participate in many celebrations that add fun and excitement to the learning process. These include dress-up days for Spirit Week, Junior/Senior Banquet, and other traditional occasions such as Field Day. We also host several events outside of the school day to encourage a Family-Environment, including our Back to School Celebration.