Lower School Growth: St. Pete Beach Focuses on Students & Community

St. Pete Beach parents seeking an educational environment that challenges young children academically and supports them personally have a strong option in the local Lower School programs. Located near Upham Beach, the school emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention to ignite curiosity and build confidence in students from kindergarten through seventh grade.

Teachers tailor methods to individual strengths and struggles. Through small group instruction and personalized support, educators meet students at their current level. This might include providing advanced math challenges for a first grader interested in marine biology or offering extra encouragement to a fifth grader developing reading skills, perhaps inspired by the historic Don CeSar hotel.

The curriculum prepares students for future academic steps while cultivating integrity and character. Graduates are expected to be enthusiastic about their education and understand their potential to contribute to their communities, mirroring the spirit of the town's early settlers.

Key programs include:

• STEM Programs: Technology integration begins in kindergarten with hands-on learning in software programming, science, engineering, and design.
• Reading and Mathematics Specialists: These specialists use evidence-based programs to support students in all aspects of reading and mathematics, from foundational skills to advanced comprehension.
• SAVVAS “Experience Science” Program: This curriculum uses real-world scenarios, such as Florida's extreme weather, to teach scientific concepts.

Chris Turner '21, a former student, said, “My days at AFA are the best days of my life. Farragut made me a better man. I am wishing and waiting to come visit again soon.”