John and Vienna Adams with their girls

Mrs. Erica is going to miss the opportunity to teach and interact with the high school on a daily basis. She will also miss being a part of their graduation from high school; however, she trusts that the Lord has bigger plans for them and knows that this is not the end of their relationship. She is excited to watch them grow in this new season and maybe be a part of each of their graduation. 

    What Dr. Wooten will miss the most about this ninth-grade class is the daily mix of chaos, comedy, and excellence they brought into the room. "I’ll miss Callie, who was always locked in and giving 110% like she was training for the Academic Olympics. I’ll miss Eli, whose talent for starting debates out of thin air—and growling when annoyed—kept life interesting at all times. I’ll miss Seth, the calm and obedient twin who somehow proved that opposites really do share DNA. I’ll miss Johanna, who set standards for herself higher than most skyscrapers and still found time to conquer swimming and dance. I’ll miss Camden, whose brain was constantly collecting facts and whose favorite extracurricular activity seemed to be arguing with Eli. And of course, I’ll miss Addy, arriving fashionably late with coffee in hand and honesty so blunt it could cut glass. This group made every day memorable, and the classroom will definitely be quieter… and probably much less entertaining without them."  

   Mrs. Amy and Mrs. Terri are going to miss the 8th and 9th, and it is difficult for them to say goodbye to the students. "We want them to know they are loved and they will stay in our hearts forever. It is our prayer that they take all they have learned and experienced at First Academy and share it with students who desperately need to hear and feel God’s love.  We call First Academy Lions 'Defenders of the Faith,' so we want them to go boldly with courage and faith, knowing God will open many doors that they never imagined possible.   We are confident they are prepared for this next phase of life and send them off with love and God’s richest blessings." 

     Saying goodbye to high school is sad for all the teachers because they have taught most of us for years, and some for a little while. We have made so many memories together and will never forget the time we spent together. Even though we fight all the time, we still love each other and see each other as family, and will always cherish the time we have spent together. But this is a new beginning in our lives, and wherever we go, we know that God is with us and in our hearts. 

Senior Plans

By: Allie Gasque

Senior year is a time full of reflection, excitement, and big decisions about what comes next. As the seniors stand on the edge of a new chapter, they begin to focus on their goals for the future—whether that means attending college, starting a career, or pursuing personal passions. It’s a year of growth, where lessons learned over time shape who they are becoming. With a mix of ambition and uncertainty, seniors look ahead with hope, ready to take on new challenges and opportunities. Our seniors at First Academy have some big plans for the future. 

Lacie plans to attend college at Brewton-Parker Christian University and work towards gaining a degree in Music Education. After this, she will teach music in a private or public school and possibly even in a piano studio. 

Natalie will attend Heritage Bible College this coming spring semester where she will pursue ministry. She also states she wants to have “a job in healthcare serving and pouring into people’s lives” in the future. 

Julia plans to attend South Georgia State College one more semester before going to SCAD in Savannah. She will pursue a degree in Video Game development and would like to make video games. 

Logan will attend ABAC in Tifton where he will gain an Agricultural Technology Management degree.  He wants to grow his metal fabrication business and one day have his own fabrication shop. 

Rylan plans to continue growing his tree servicing business full-time. He wants to make his business reliable and a long-term career for himself. 

Hannah plans to attend Wiregrass after graduation where she will gain a Cosmetology degree. She is also looking forward to getting married and starting a family. 

Allie will attend South Georgia State College where she will gain a degree in History and Education. She plans to teach high school or college history. 

Jackson will begin working at Publix, a role he is genuinely excited about. He looks forward to building his skills, contributing to his team, and growing in independence through his work. One of his biggest goals is to save money so he can travel and experience Disney parks around the world. This dream reflects his sense of adventure and enthusiasm for new experiences.

As this group of seniors prepares to take their next steps, their diverse goals reflect both their individual passions and their shared determination to succeed. From education and ministry to business, technology, and hands-on careers, each student is moving forward with purpose and ambition. While their paths may look different, they are all grounded in the lessons and experiences that have shaped them during their time at First Academy. With faith, perseverance, and a vision for the future, these seniors are ready to make a meaningful impact in the world beyond graduation. 

The Gift First Academy Has Given Me

By: Kezney Kashula

Walking through the halls of First Academy for what may be the last time feels unreal. From the moment I first stepped into Pre-K, unsure and small, to now standing as an 11th grader preparing for what comes next, this school has been more than just a place of learning; it has been a place that shaped who I am. Every classroom, every teacher, and every memory holds a piece of my growth. It’s hard to imagine who I would be without First Academy, because it hasn’t just educated me academically; it has built the foundation of my character, my faith, and my outlook on life.                                                                                 Over the years, First Academy has consistently poured into me in ways that go far beyond textbooks and assignments. The many lessons I’ve learned here, including perseverance, kindness, and strength, have come through both challenges and triumphs. There were moments when schoolwork felt overwhelming or life outside of school became difficult, but I was never left to face those struggles alone. Teachers here at First Academy didn’t just teach; they cared deeply. I can honestly say there has never been a teacher who made me feel less than who I am. Instead, they encouraged me, supported me, and reminded me of my worth. One time, my teacher could tell I was struggling and told me, “You are capable of more than you think, especially when you lean on God,” and these words of encouragement have stayed with me until this day.                                                                                                                  Faith has always been a central part of First Academy, and it has impacted my life in a way I will never forget. Through chapel services, prayer, and daily encouragement, I’ve learned how to turn to God in every situation, whether I’m facing success or hardship. If it weren’t for this school, I truly don’t think my relationship with God would be as strong as it is today.                                                                                          As I look ahead to the future, I carry with me everything First Academy has given me. This school has taught me how to face life’s challenges not with fear, but with faith and determination. It has shown me the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in every situation and trusting His plan, even when things are uncertain. While saying goodbye is bittersweet, I know that the lessons, values, and memories I’ve gained here will stay with me forever. First Academy didn’t just prepare me for the next step in my education, it prepared me for life. And no matter where I go in life, a part of me will always remain here at FA, shaped by the place that helped me become who I am today.

A Farewell to Mrs. Bailey

By: Addi Ray

Until seventh grade, I would have considered myself a mediocre math student. What changed? In seventh grade, I had Mrs. Bailey as a math teacher. She slowed down when explaining different math concepts and made sure to thoroughly explain it. Gradually, I was able to grasp concepts that were difficult for me to understand before. I had learned how to multiply and divide decimals and fractions before seventh grade. But before Mrs. Bailey, no teacher had ever slowed down long enough to help me master them. Now I am quite fond of math and excel at it. I will forever be grateful to Mrs. Bailey for that year of learning.

In recent years, however, I have interacted with her as Head of School. On any given day, you can find Mrs. Bailey making her daily rounds around the school, talking to parents, or putting out disciplinary fires. We are going to miss that energy and great attitude. I sat down with Mrs. Bailey last week and asked her about her time here at First Academy. Here is the interview: First I asked her, “How long and in what capacities have you served at First Academy?” Mrs. Bailey responded with, “I have served five years at First Academy. After I retired from the public school system, I came to First Academy to teach math in middle school part time. So I was teaching sixth, seventh, and eighth grade math for the first semester. Mrs. Amber Ware was the high school math teacher. She had an accident and was unable to come back after Christmas. So they asked me if I could teach her Algebra 1 class that she was teaching currently for that semester.” She began teaching full time at that point. In her second year, she became the high school math teacher. She transitioned to Associate Head of School for Endowments, too. That job led to full-time Head of School. When she first came to First Academy, she never intended to become Head of School, but that’s what the Lord intended her to do. She has now served as Head of School for three years. 

My second question was, “What has been most difficult, and what has given you the greatest joy?” Her response was, “The most difficult thing is making hard decisions. For instance, phasing out high school, because it means so much to parents and students.” What brings her joy is the rewarding decision of being at a school like First Academy. Mrs. Bailey says, “I wish everybody could see all the good things that happen; the teaching that happens here, the love that’s poured into the students, the joy in the students’ faces. They just are happy when they walk in, and they don’t want to leave in the afternoons. It’s just a wonderful environment. Then on top of all of that, really first and foremost, is that they are getting a Christian education.” My next question was, “What will you miss most?” She got a bit emotional when answering this one, due to love for her coworkers and the students at First Academy. Mrs. Bailey answered, “I’m just going to miss so much. I’m just going to miss the camaraderie with my fellow teachers. It’s just everyone is friends, we’re family. It’s really going be like I won’t get to see my family anymore, but I’ll have to stop in. I love waking up in the morning and coming here. So I’m just going to miss the people, and I’m going to miss being a part of what’s going on here.” 

My final question for her was, “What is your message for the students?” Her reply: “My message to them would be to appreciate what is offered here, because I’ve seen that this is a different place and it isn’t offered anywhere else. So in their time here, I pray that they appreciate what they have here: their teachers and the love that is poured into them. And for them to be thankful for the opportunity to be exposed to the Bible, God’s Holy Word, every day. They’re going to get a spiritual education that they could never have received anywhere else. This education is not just going to get them to graduation, but it will take them through life and through eternity.” She'll certainly be missed!♥️

 A Day in the Life –Now

By Jordan Moseley

The day-to-day schedule of school is different for every grade. What does high school look like for First Academy’s last graduating class? The Class of ‘27 has a stressful last few days ahead of them. They have to power through their last few classes for college, ace their finals, and prepare for the emotional impact of the last days of the year. So, what does a day in the life of our juniors look like? 

To begin, juniors have to wake up early around 6:40 to make the commute to First Academy to start their day. They usually arrive at the school from anywhere between 7:50 and 8:10. They begin their Bible class with Mr. Bounds at 8:15. They have a study period at 9:00, and after their study period, 11th grade has Journalism with Dr. Wooten at 9:45 until 10:15. At 10:15, the students leave to drive to the college and attend their college class. College classes start at 11:00 and continue until 12:15. According to Jordyn Moseley, one of the juniors, “At the beginning of the year, the structure seemed to not be too stressful, but we are coming up on college finals. We are stressed to the max.” These days, studying is practically another class. Juniors can be seen constantly reviewing and preparing for their finals. 

Finally, school has historically always had a sizable impact on society at large. Schools are places students can express themselves and discover their interests with less consequence than in the working world. It has always been a place that molds those that go through it and First Academy is no different. Instead of shaping students in a secular way, First Academy instills values of honesty, hard work, and a Christ-like life in their students. This class of juniors is no different. All of the juniors come to a consensus that First Academy has helped them develop a Biblical, Christ-like attitude. The juniors have stressful days ahead of them but with Christ they will have peace through it all.

Over the years at First Academy, we have had so many wonderful teachers shaping the young minds of the next generation. While some have been here longer than others, they have all equally had a big impact on FA’s students. In this time of transition and change, we could focus on all the wonderful memories made at the school with friends. However, we should also focus on our teachers—those who have stood by the students and provided guidance no matter the season.

The logical place to begin when reflecting on First Academy’s teachers and staff is, of course, the students. When asked, Logan James stated that “all of my teachers have left an impact on me.” As someone who has been at FA since the beginning of the school, he has had so much exposure to great teachers and staff. Some, he has been around and in their classrooms for all of his high school years. When asked why he chose them as leaving a lasting impression on him, he said exactly that: “because I spent all day every day with them.” He also stated that he looked up to all of them, and they taught him very valuable lessons that shaped his life now. All of FA’s teachers have had a noticeable impact on their students, whether it is through the classroom lessons they teach or the life lesson through everyday experiences. Another student, Brantleigh Taylor, said the teacher or staff that has impacted her the most while at First Academy is her mother, April Taylor. When asked why, she stated that her mother has influenced her in the way she rides her horse: “I do horse riding lessons, and every time I stop, I get slung forward.” Because of her mom, she has learned to sit deep in her saddle with her feet in front of her, “or I will get the saddle horn to the gut.” She knows now that she can use this method when going on trail rides, all because of the impact her mother, and First Academy staff, made on her life.

Overall, First Academy would be nothing without its teachers and staff. They have shaped a generation for the better and left a lasting impact on everyone’s lives. Whether they’re just your teachers, family, or both, it is undeniable that a teacher somewhere in FA has made a positive impact on a young life. Despite the coming change, we can look back and remember fondly the teachers we have had and the memories we have made in this school’s hallways, no matter how old you are or how long you have been attending.

Bittersweet Goodbyes

By: Hannah Mayes

Saying goodbye is never simple, especially when it means leaving behind a place filled with memories, friendships, and personal growth. As the First Academy High School prepares to close, students are experiencing a wide range of emotions that reflect the bittersweet feelings of a goodbye. While some feel sadness about leaving a familiar environment, others are ready for a fresh start. For many, it’s not just one feeling—it’s a mix of both, showing how differently people respond to the end of an important chapter.

One upcoming ninth-grader captured this complexity deeply, sharing, “First Academy has played a great role in my life, both in friendships and my relationship with God. Knowing that it is closing is sad because it feels like this chapter in my life is coming to an end, but there is a quote that says, “Everything will be okay in the end, and if it’s not okay, it's not the end” (John Lennon). I feel like this quote directly describes the situation I’m in currently, and even though I won't be able to attend First Academy next year, I am very thankful for everything it has done in my life so far, and I have peace of mind knowing that I can still apply every lesson I’ve learned there in my daily life. I don’t know what God has in store for me, but I do know that His allowing me to go to First Academy for the past six years has prepared me well for it.”

Students shared honest and personal reactions about what this transition means to them. Another ninth grader expressed mixed emotions, saying, “Honestly, it feels great… but I’m also sad,” explaining they will miss “my friends that I see every day and the memories.” A different ninth-grade student reflected on both appreciation and excitement for the future, sharing, “It was a good chapter in my life, while still admitting they will miss “the people I have met.”

These different perspectives show that goodbyes are rarely defined by just one emotion. The closing of a school marks both an ending and a beginning—bringing loss, relief, gratitude, and hope all at once. For some, it even includes mixed, alongside appreciation for what they’ve experienced. Each student’s story highlights how meaningful this chapter has been in their own way. In the end, bittersweet goodbyes are not about choosing between happy or sad, but about learning how both can exist at the same time as students prepare to move forward into what comes next.

The Heart of the School

By: Reese Fender

What makes First Academy special? Well, here it is not just about the classes or the building; it is truly about the people and the heart behind it all. First Academy is more than just a school; it is a place where students are “loved, known, supported, and encouraged to grow not only academically, but also personally and spiritually.” That’s what makes First Academy stand out. One person who really shows what this school is all about is Mrs. Katie. Through her story, you can see how First Academy is built on relationships, faith, and a genuine care for every student.

For Mrs. Katie, First Academy is not just where she works, but somewhere that feels like home. She describes it as “a safe and nurturing environment where relationships matter,” and you can tell that’s true by the way she interacts with the students. One of her favorite parts of the day is morning drop-off. She says she loves “being the first face they see when they get to school” and greeting them with “a smile and loving attitude.” That shows how much she cares about making students feel welcome right from the start. She also says, “the most enjoyable part of my job is being able to have a personal relationship with all of the students,” which really shows how important those connections are to her. Even though she’s busy balancing nursing, swim coaching, and everyday responsibilities, she explains that it is not about being perfect; it is about being intentional with your time so “nothing important gets neglected.” She also shared how much it means that “Christ is the center of everything we do here,” and how that has helped her grow in her faith. On top of that, she says her coworkers “have become my family and best friends,” which really shows how close everyone is at First Academy. 

Mrs. Katie’s story really shows what First Academy means and why it is such a special place. It is not just about learning but about building lasting relationships, growing in faith, and feeling like you belong. The way she connects with the students and cares about them makes a lasting impact that goes beyond the classroom. People like her make First Academy feel like a family instead of just a school. Looking ahead, it is clear that the heart of the school will keep growing through people who truly care and put others first. In the end, First Academy is not just a place you go; it is a place that stays with you.

Messages for the Future

By: Johanna Merritt

For my final story, I chose to write about what the kids from our school would say to future generations of students. I interviewed and emailed seven students. While working on this story, I learned that what we say to future generations matters, and can shape the thinking of the future. The people that I interviewed were Hannah Mayes, Laci Reagin, Ariel Prescott,  Jude Paulk, Brantley Adams, Peyton Powell, and Callie Dockery.

Some of the older students from our school, Hannah, said, “Don't worry too much about minor issues. Give your best effort in everything you do, and allow yourself grace when things don't go the way you hoped. Enjoy your time, and remember to always seek God's will before your own dreams.“

Lacie said, “Enjoy high school while you can. Have fun, and make memories while you can! Don't let anyone ruin it for you. There will be drama, and there will be things you don't want to do, but when May of your senior year comes, it will all be worth it. The Lord will be with you every step of the way. You just have to hold tight and trust in Him—even that won't be easy a lot of the time, but you have to keep trusting and waiting and abiding in Him. ‘Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.’ -James 1:2-3 NLT.” Callie added, “Keep hope and don't let our school die out.”

After all, I feel that when current students give advice to future generations, it really shows the love and support that they have for this school. After receiving these messages, I believe that the school will become stronger if students don’t let the light of the school die out. Words are strong and if used correctly, can change the future.

Reflection of Our Teachers

By: Callie Dockery

AI projection. No real students harmed in the making of this picture.