Great Beginnings Academy
Great Beginnings Start Here
In essence, we teach children what they need to know to be successful learners with God’s blessings. Within this environment, it is our goal to encourage physical, cognitive, emotional and social development of each child through imaginative play and creative learning.
About
Mission & Philosophy
Great Beginnings Academy Orlando (GBAO) was formed in 2015 by a seasoned educator with 30+ years of experience—preschool owner, public‑school teacher & principal, district administrator, and university professor. Formerly Dream Big Academy, GBAO prepares students to excel as tomorrow’s leaders through a Christ‑centered, top‑notch curriculum delivered in a clean, safe, and healthy environment.
We recognize each child as an individual created by God with unique learning abilities and styles. Christian fundamentals are woven into daily instruction—nurturing hearts as well as minds.
Goals
- Encourage active, hands‑on exploration.
- Foster excitement about school and learning.
- Honor diverse learning styles and needs.
- Develop students socially, emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
- Promote continual teacher growth and expertise.
- Embed problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
- Celebrate diversity and strengthen community partnerships.
Dr. Kim Bradwell
Academic Director
Dr. Aprile Cox
Operations Director
Eboni Ingram
Finance Director
Admissions
We’re excited that you are considering Great Beginnings Academy Orlando for your child’s education. We believe Great Beginnings Academy Orlando offers students a better way to be their best.
Throughout our integrated VPK – 12th grade student experience, Great Beginnings Academy Orlando sets better standards for education. We dare to ask more of education by empowering students to chart their own course. We emphasize the wonder, joy and discovery of learning as much as the knowledge and achievement gained. Learn more about what setting better standards means to the Great Beginnings Academy Orlando community.
No two paths to excellence are the same at Great Beginnings Academy Orlando. Our collaborative community celebrates authenticity, independent thought, and diverse achievement. As a result, students see things from different perspectives, explore new ideas, and uncover unexpected knowledge. Upon leaving Great Beginnings Academy Orlando and transferring to our feeder – partner school (FMI STEM ACADEMY), our students possess both the experience and confidence to build happy, healthy, and purposeful lives.
We can’t wait to meet you and better understand the hopes and dreams you have for your child.
Sincerely,
Kim Upson-Bradwell, M.B.A., Ed.S.
Student Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Please call our school office to schedule a tour. We’d love to meet you, show you around, and answer your questions one-on-one.
- Be able to return to their previous school
- Be free from disciplinary action or debt at a previous school
- Have passed the previous year’s standardized test or met grade-level expectations
- Be of good moral character
Applications are reviewed by our admissions panel. We notify you when a decision is made and will guide you through next steps if accepted.
Regular attendance is required by Florida law. Absences must be reported within 48 hours. Excessive unexcused absences or tardies may result in intervention or disciplinary action.
No. Only persons 18+ listed on the emergency pick-up list may sign out or excuse a student.
Yes. Great Beginnings Academy Orlando does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, or disability.
Our Wellness Plan Policy is available in English, Creole, and Spanish. Please contact the school office for details.