The Calvary Assembly of God has a new opportunity for busy parents looking to give their children a Christian based education from the beginning.

Candace Brown, Director of the Calvary Academy Early Childcare Center in Orange Park, FL, is combining her love for early childhood education with her love for God and her church.

The highlighted benefit of the center is its focus on Bible-based education, especially for children at such a young age. Brown, the former children’s pastor at Calvary Assembly of God and substitute teacher, became the director of the program and received her credentials and CDA license in 2021.

The church affiliated the academy with the League of Christian Schools, and Brown plans on growing into other age ranges, like infants and one-year olds. Plans to grow are already in progress. They expect a VPK program for kindergarten preparation to begin next year as the academy finished its certification and training process.

The center offers daily childcare from 6:30 am to 6 pm, a time chosen specifically for its convenience for parents.

“Parents have really varied schedules. We hoped that by opening early and staying open until later, after most parents were out of work, we could be as convenient an option as possible.”

Parents can drop off their children in the morning, even before an early shift, and have the freedom to pick up their children when their workday ends. The Academy also uses a familiar system for parents who have used daycares before. Brightwheel helps keep parents in the loop with their kids by offering updates on their lessons, and the occasional picture that lets them stay connected throughout the day.

Calvary Academy offers a weekly tuition rate and has a rolling enrolment process for new families to join.

“Having a child enrolled in preschool, especially a Christian based preschool, teaches them so many things at this age. It teaches them these important social skills and how to interact with each other in a positive environment. We help to teach these kids to love each other, respect each other’s differences and learn about the world in a place that is safe and encouraging.”

It’s not just social skills, though, Brown is clear that God is at the center of everything.

“With all the love from our teachers and all of our staff, we can teach students about the hope and love that the word of God. It’s such a positive place. We’ve become a little family here. It’s become this community of love and support.”

For prospective parents, the school offers tours, and is still currently enrolling new students.

Interested in working at the childcare center? Brown is looking to hire one more full-time teacher. Applicants should know that they always are interested in excellent employees! The academy is always accepting donations- and would love to receive any age-appropriate books, art materials, and any other age-appropriate materials. For more information about enrollment, careers, or donations, you can reach the center by phone at (904) 272-5774 or by email at calvaryacademyinfo@gmail.com.