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Only one thing's missing: students
By TIM GRANT, Times Staff Writer CARROLLWOOD -- The Bible-Based Fellowship Christian Academy is a source of pride for this area's premier black church. But, while the $4-million private school can accommodate up to 400 students, it has had trouble attracting a full enrollment since it opened in 1995. "Our challenge is unique because of our location as an African American church," said Daphne Miles, head of school. Carrollwood's population is only 6 percent black, according to the 2000 Census. The school's highest enrollment was 108 students in 1997-1998, and 85 were registered last year. Close to half were church members; most of the others heard about the school through the church. Miles, 32, with a masters degree from the University of South Florida, has been head of school for a year. She says the key to success for the academy at 4903 Ehrlich Road is reaching out to black and non-black suburban families who want a Christian education for their children and can afford the $3,500 yearly tuition. The school, which serves pre-school through fifth grade, has recruited families through open houses, direct mail and media advertisements. But "nothing beats word-of-mouth testimonials from parents about how their child has succeeded here at the academy," Miles said. Bible-Based Fellowship Church is led by senior pastor Arthur T. Jones, who started the church in 1989 at his Brandon home. Miles has been a member for 11 years. Church officials said the congregation now has about 2,500 members. School enrollment dropped to an all-time low of 59 students in 1999-2000 after longtime co-pastor Earl Mason started a separate church in Temple Terrace. So far, 54 students have pre-enrolled for the coming school year, and Miles and her staff hope to increase those numbers before the school bell rings on Aug. 7. "Since we don't provide transportation, that could be a hurdle for prospective families who live outside the Carrollwood area," Miles said. About two years ago, the school received a variance from Hillsborough County to erect a large sign on Ehrlich Road, intended to boost enrollment. In at least one instance, the larger sign has helped. "A new family moved here and happened to be in the Carrollwood area and saw our sign," Miles said, adding that the family did enroll their child in the school. While working to increase enrollment, Miles has tried to maintain a warm and nurturing environment, even for students who misbehave. Her office, called the Lion's Den, is decorated brightly with stuffed animals, toys and an arts and crafts table. "I try to make it so that it is still a loving place," she said. "Even if they have to come here it's still not a really bad place." The school also boasts a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1, which compares favorably to the public schools. "We are not a young school struggling to build a facility," Miles said. "We have a facility. We have to look at more creative ways to promote the academy." -- Tim Grant can be reached 269-5311 or at grant@sptimes.com.
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From the Times |
