Ben Franklin Academy: An In-Depth Look at Tuition, Academics, and Student Experiences
Ben Franklin Academy (BFA) in Druid Hills, Atlanta, stands out as a unique private high school offering individualized instruction within a nontraditional campus. This article delves into various aspects of BFA, including tuition costs, academic approach, student experiences, and comparisons with other schools in the area.
Overview of Ben Franklin Academy
Founded in 1987 near Emory University, Ben Franklin Academy occupies repurposed houses, creating a comfortable and informal learning environment. The school's structure promotes small, seminar-style classes, fostering closer interactions between students and teachers. BFA serves students in grades 9-12 and is located at 1585 Clifton Rd NE in Atlanta, GA.
Tuition and Key Statistics
The annual tuition for Ben Franklin Academy is $37,250. The school has a total enrollment of 140 students and maintains a student-teacher ratio of 3:1. These statistics highlight BFA's commitment to providing personalized attention to its students. Ben Franklin Academy has received a Niche grade of A, reflecting positive feedback and ratings. The average GPA is 3.7, and the graduation rate is 100%. Standardized test scores include an average SAT score of 1330 and an average ACT score of 30.
Unique Curriculum and Academic Offerings
Ben Franklin Academy implements a unique curriculum model emphasizing mastery, where students must achieve at least 90% to advance in their classes. This approach ensures a thorough understanding of the material before moving forward. The school offers a variety of courses, including 25 AP classes and nine foreign languages. Electives include journalism, computer science, marketing, and ceramics, providing students with a range of options to explore their interests. BFA also utilizes its campus grounds as an extension of the classroom for outdoor learning, allowing for hands-on experiences.
Student and Parent Perspectives
Experiences at Ben Franklin Academy vary among students and parents. Some students describe the teachers as kind and helpful, noting the positive impact on their learning experience. Others express concerns about college preparation, with some students feeling unprepared for higher education after graduating from BFA. One former student mentioned that a significant number of graduates did not enroll in college, and many who did dropped out during their first semester due to a lack of preparation.
Read also: Space Exploration Pioneer
However, other parents have had positive experiences. One parent noted that their daughters, who suffer from anxiety and are highly gifted, thrived at BFA due to the ability to learn at their own pace and access numerous AP classes. This parent's older daughter is now an honor student on the Dean’s list at Georgia Tech. Some students feel that BFA was "life changing definitely the best school in Atlanta", particularly for students trying to find their place.
Concerns and Criticisms
Despite the positive feedback, some parents would not recommend the school. One criticism revolves around the school's claim of being a college preparatory institution. Some believe that the "mastery program" does not adequately prepare students for the rigors of college.
Comparison with Other Schools
Ben Franklin Academy is situated in an area with several other educational options. Nearby schools include Paideia School, Temima High School, and Yeshiva Ohr Yisrael Of Atlanta. These schools offer different educational environments and specializations, providing families with a range of choices.
Surrounding Area and Real Estate
The area surrounding Ben Franklin Academy in Druid Hills offers various real estate options. For instance, Oakhurst neighborhood in Decatur features properties like a 4-sides brick Quad with multiple units, each including 2 bedrooms and 1.5 baths. There are also luxury townhomes and apartments available in the intown Atlanta area, with various incentives and specials offered by sellers and apartment complexes. These real estate details provide a glimpse into the community surrounding the school.
Read also: Franklin & Marshall College: An Overview
Read also: Requirements for Franklin Scholarships
tags: #ben #franklin #academy #tuition #costs
