Bell Shoals Baptist Academy
Brandon, FL 33511
Phone: (813) 689-9183
GreatSchools Rating
private • Grades PK,TK,KG,1,2,3,4,5,6 • 433 students
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy, a private school located in Brandon, FL, serves grades PK-8 in the .
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy is a private school located in Brandon, FL. 433 students attend Bell Shoals Baptist Academy.
Posted: September 3, 2026
Weve had such a phenomenal experience at this school. Its our priority to have our children in a Christian environment and its been an answered prayer to be here where families are aligned to raise our kids to live intentionally God centered. Our experience with teachers and admin has been wonderful, they truly and intentionally care and encourage the kids. They provide above and beyond opportunities for growth and challenge them academically in a way that only a smaller environment can. Weve LOVED the growing sports program and the opportunities it provides our children to grow and excel in that area, as well! All around A+ experience!
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
It is an honor and privilege to serve at BSA! I truly believe we are one of the best options for private Christian education in our region. I also believe our Unrivaled vision and commitment to excellence will quickly elevate us to become one of the premier educational institutions in the state in the very near future. Come check us out!
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
I have had an A+ experience as a staff member in my 12th year of employment at BSA. It has been a supportive and rewarding work place, and great school.
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: September 3, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Bell Shoals Academy has been life-changing for our family. After experiencing public school for two days with my then middle school daughter. I knew that our family needed a Christ-centered school that could come alongside us and promote the same values that we have. Not only did Bell Shoals do that, but our children (4) have thrived in ways we never imagined. Sports, Fine Arts, Academics, and spiritual development have all blown our expectations out of the water. The staff has always loved and cared for our kids, which means the world. Highly recommend.
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: July 14, 2026
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Posted: August 8, 2019
Fantastic school. We're so thankful to be a part of this community. The teachers truly have a passion for children and joy radiates within the school.
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
Posted: November 25, 2018
As a former student of BSBA for many years, I can confidently say that this school was the absolute worst. I was severely bullied while I attended this school for my race, my parents financial situation, and just for being different. My belongings were vandalized, I was physically hurt on a number of occasions, there were rumors started about me being gay, the verbal abuse was endless. The middle school teachers were notified, multiple times and never did anything about it. The children were not even punished. Please, be careful.
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
Posted: February 15, 2018
All Four of My Children attended this school from preschool to 8th grade. They: graduated high school with AP HONORS, excelled in Duel enrollment and AP courses, know how to apply their-selves with all their effort in work and study, know how to defend their faith, and they strive for excellence in they do putting God in the center (work, play, relationships). BSBA well prepared my children more than I could ask or imagine. God definitely had a plan for them there.
Posted: May 4, 2016
Would rather another school.....I am just the Grandmother. But I do volunteer a lot & everyone is so nice.
Posted: December 16, 2014
I want to thank Bell Shoals Baptist Academy for the wonderful Christian Education that my Grandson received. He attended BSBA from 4 year pre school through 8th Grade and now he attends a local high school. Two of his teachers commented on his writing skills this past week. They both said that they could tell that he had been taught proper writing skills. They said they were impressed with how well he knew had to organizie his thoughts and write a 5 paragraph essay correctly. BSBA has taught my Grandson so many good study skills that he will be able to use in High School and College. Many thanks to the wonderful teachers and staff for their love and devotion to Christian Education.
Posted: November 3, 2014
We LOVE BSBA! We have twin 3rd grader's at BSBA who we just transitioned from public school. Talk about "walking the walk and talking the talk". This school delivers on it's promise to nurture, educate and bring out the best in our children. Every teacher is so engaging and genuine! Every teacher treats my children as though they were their own and it is all the little things that count. My children feel loved, appreciated and equipped. The balance between academics, specials (technology, art, music, sports, etc.) and a Christ-centered environment will help my children achieve overall success out in the world!
Posted: November 2, 2014
Bell Shoals Baptist Academy's mission is to provide students with a strong Christ-centered education. We strive to train students to excel in academics, fine arts, technology and athletics while fostering a biblical world view throughout all aspects of our program. Our school recently completed an ACSI reaccreditation. Some of the major commendations received are listed below: * A commitment to developing the whole child * A warm, welcoming staff * Modeling a loving, nurturing environment * Numerous, safe, and accessible outdoor areas * A positive and supportive relationship with parents * An Early Learning Center with hands on and engaging activities. The ELC has a well-schedule program with a large variety of individual/group activities. * An Academic Enhancement Program that meets the needs of students who struggle and a Compass Program that offers a gifted program including robotics Our highest standard was in the area of Character, Values, and Spiritual Development! BSBA offers a traditional, rigorous academic program and uses best practices to teach. We have remained committed to teaching cursive handwriting, grammar, math facts, history, science, spelling, and other time tested foundations in education. Our middle school students can take 3 or more high school courses, IPS Honors, Algebra 1 Honors, Spanish 1, and FLVS Leadership.
Posted: November 2, 2014
We have been at BSBA for 4 years. We have had nothing but a great experience! My boys love their teachers and we love the school! I highly recommend this school to anyone who is looking.
Posted: November 2, 2014
I love serving as a teacher's aid in the ELC. I have such great,friendly,caring co-workers. I love that we have prayer time as a staff over our school and students. Love all of our sweet children and their parents. I feel so blessed to be a part of this wonderful school.
Posted: March 19, 2014
I can't say enough wonderful things about this school. My daughter has been going here since she was 3, in their Early Learning Center. She's in Kindergarten now in Mrs. Groom's class- the BEST teacher we've had yet!!! This school makes us feel like family. The teachers and staff truly love the kids, and vice versa. Even the teachers that have never had my daughter in their class, all know her and take care of her as well. The teacher/parent communication has always been excellent- I have texted and emailed with her teachers over the years, and I always get a quick response. This is re-assuring when your child has been sick recently, and you just want to check in to see how they're doing. Or for matters involving homework, or any other concerns. Bottom line, we are keeping our daughter here for as long as we possibly can!
Posted: March 15, 2014
It has been such an answer to prayer to have my kids at BSBA. Knowing they are receiving not only top-notch education, but also care, concern, and guidance that mirrors our own home values is so important to me.
Posted: March 12, 2014
I am so pleased with the experience my family has had at BSBA! We have been in the ELC preschool for the past 3yrs & now my daughter is in Kindergarten. My younger daughter (age 2) has also started preschool, due to the great options of classes BSBA offers. The quality of the teachers has exceeded my expectations. I knew they were loving & were pointing my daughters toward Christ, but they have also challenged both of my daughters to grow, learn & stretch themselves where they are excelling, while devoting extra time in areas of concern. I have found the administration to be very approachable & kind. The principal has welcomed any conversation I've approached her with & I admire her compassion & leadership. This is an excellent school! I also love that the moment you step on campus, you can feel God's presence in this school. I feel that the staff have servant's hearts & desire to honor God in their work.
Posted: March 7, 2014
My daughter has attended Bell Shoals since she was in 3-year old preschool, and is now nearing the end of 7th grade. Every year she has had experienced, caring, and knowledgeable teachers, who have challenged her to excel, and who have developed long-term, familial relationships with us. She is a high-achieving student and I feel confident that she has been adequately challenged and prepared in her academics. Bell Shoals strives to offer cutting edge, above-standard instruction, curriculum, and technology. She has participated in several different sports through BSBA and her coaches have always been knowledgeable and encouraging. She has been involved in many opportunities to serve the community and world through mission projects. My daughter has developed encouraging and supportive friendships that I believe will last a lifetime and so has our family. The staff at Bell Shoals recognizes and embraces the importance of a godly and moral education and I am so very blessed by my daughter s spiritual growth throughout the years. Her only regret is that she can t stay at Bell Shoals forever :)
Posted: March 7, 2014
We had 2 children that attended this wonderful academy. The staff really loves the children, their families and above all else they lived God. It shows in their commitment to academic excellence. Our children went on to be on all honors classes and they spiritual character is grounded on a firm foundation. Love love love this school!
Posted: March 5, 2014
My son has attended Bell Shoals Baptist Academy for almost two years now (K-1st). We have been very pleased with the Christian environment which feels right -- loving, fair, and genuine. The teachers we have encountered have been fantastic in making learning fun while covering a lot of material...which seems to be on par and sometimes ahead of what i've heard our friends say their kids are learning. It has great value in terms of education, environment, size and cost. There also seems to be a real commitment to providing an excellent education in a Christian environment. In the short time our son has been there they have added iPads to the classrooms. There seems to be an eye on making sure the education provided is not lacking and utitlizes tools and technology available. Great school!
Posted: March 5, 2014
I have had children at this school for 6 years ranging from preschool through middle school. It has been a FABULOUS environment for my children and family! The Teachers are absolutely wonderful & truly care about the children. You are not just a number. They are patient, kind & caring. One of my children has now left BSBA & is in all AP courses so I feel academically the school is strong also. The God centered education & environment are wonderful & the parents & their commitment to the school are amazing. We have made lifelong friendships through the school. Based on my experience I would easily give the school 5 stars!
Posted: March 5, 2014
Nothing else compares! Both of my children have attended BSBA since preschool (3's). They have been loved and cared for by their teachers and treated as part of each family. The education they are receiving goes above and beyond any other school in the area. The sports program has been an encouragement and blessing as well. It truly has shown them how to work together as a team. Would not have them go anywhere else!!!
Posted: March 5, 2014
I never even took a tour of this school (although you definately can if you want!). But when my family and I were moving to the area, I looked at information available on their website at https://www.bellshoals.com/academy just knew that this was where God would have us to put our children. Having taught in both public and private schools myself, now that we have both of our children who have been through the early learning center and are now starting at the Academy, I am more than satisfied with this school. Who would not want their child to have loving, supportive, Christian, teachers who have the best interest in mind of each of the students that they teach? When you walk on campus and interact with the teachers, staff, and students, you can defiantley feel that this is a warm, safe, inviting, learning- focused and appealing environment for your student go to school. The curriculm has been well-suited for my children's needs and I have been thankfull that my children's teachers have helped improve areas of growth and brought out areas of strenght in their academic, emotional, spiritual, and social development, My son says he loves his teacher (and snacks!)
Posted: November 21, 2013
BSBA was a wonderful experience for my girls. They actually graduated and went on to take honors and AP classes in high school. They both still have very amazing relationships with their teachers. I would highly recommend this school!
Posted: November 4, 2013
DO NOT ATTEND THIS SCHOOL. We were warned there was unhealthy behaviors and we interviewed the schools and did not see initial concerns we heard about. They reveal themselves over time. For example, Class bullies are the children of very active Parents. Thus children are seen differently if the parents are Buddies of the school and therefore bad behaviors are pardoned". Teachers are warm and loving but probably not enough coverage to supervise this type of behavior. My child was ostrasized after I discussed my concerns with school leadership. Since the school is uninterested in rectifying this issue, we have to move on sadly. Parents are way involved - be careful because they
Posted: August 27, 2013
We came from another private school in the area and Bell Shoals far outweighs by far academically!!!!!! Our family loves it here.
Posted: July 9, 2013
My son was severely bullied at this school while attending middle school there. The bullying was verbal and physical. My child was and still is extremely affected by the bullying. The administration's main concern was to keep it swept under the rug. The ones involved in the bullying were very lightly disciplined. Teachers were not notified of the bullying. Bullying is a big problem at this school that does not get addressed properly. I do not and would not ever recommend the school to anyone. I am giving a good rating on the teachers as several of my child's teachers were good even though the Principal and administration rates very low in my opinion.
Posted: June 16, 2013
Our son went to BSBA up through 1st grade. We had wonderful experiences until this year. Horrible first grade teacher, played favorites, negative behavior towards our son. We complained and feel as if we had to leave the school or our son would suffer repercussions. If not for this teacher we would still be there.
Posted: June 14, 2013
The school is great and filed with loving teachers who do truly care about the students, has been a very positive influence in my chid's life! Had a horrible experience in a public school kindergarten class and did not want to go back to any school, here attitude about school changed, the class size has been no more than 15 or 16 students in a class, which is great - compared to public schools is upper grades that have 23 to 24 per class and some with combined classes with 32+, even with 2 teachers - can't be effective! One draw back is science, only taught half the year, no labs or extra's to really grab students interest in a very important subject - really needs to be entire year with labs at least 3rd grade and up, all public schools science is year round and many of the better schools in area have labs as well! Otherwise great school!
Posted: May 23, 2013
My children have attended this school from the time they were three. Two have graduated from the 8th and are in high school. I am so impressed with how both were prepared for High School. They both went into Honors, AP classes, and duel enrollment with HCC. Truly the staff love GOD and the children. One of my children has a different learning style and the teachers and school accommodated him so that he could excel in his academics. Truly a school with the children at heart!
Posted: June 11, 2012
I have worked on staff at BSBA for eleven years, and I can honestly say that I have never worked with a more dynamic, hard-working, loving and creative group of teachers and staff. They all truly love their students and have a commitment to teach and grow them in a godly way. Our students and parents are also top notch! We have great academic programs in each grade, as well as an extensive extra-curricular program list, including sports, choir and the morning show. If you want your child to be loved in a godly way and to learn and grow in a wonderful environment, BSBA is the school for you!
Posted: June 10, 2012
My grandchildren attended Bell Shoals and are now wonderful Godly teenagers. The oldest who just graduated from high school with high honors will tell you that being at Bell Shoals was a great good influence in her life. A blessedf and grateful grandparent
Posted: June 10, 2012
We are a military family that had to relocate last year right in the middle of our kids' school year. This is very tough as you can imagine. ALL the staff and kidsat BSBA made our 2 boys feel so welcome--the transition was amazingly smooth. They felt genuinely cared for and loved. Then in the middle of this school year, my oldest son began having some chronic health problems which made him unable to be in the classroom. The principals arranged for a tutor to come to our house to help our son. Wow--The staff at BSBA TRULY know what compassion means! they lifted a huge burden in a stressful situation for our family and we are so thankful for this school!
Posted: June 9, 2012
I have 2 children who attend BSBA and I couldn't imagine them going anywhere else. The atmosphere is welcoming and you know that your child is loved by every teacher/staff member they come in contact with. My children have been in BSBA since K3 and the things they learn at such a early age from their teachers warms my heart. Not only are they getting a wonderful education but they are getting an amazing lesson in our LORD!! My children will tell you that Christmas and Easter are not about Santa and the Easter Bunny, its all about JESUS. (But they still enjoy those guys too) one of them had a Seder, it was amazing that my 3 yr old and myself took home so much more than just an Easter Party. WOW! Amazing teachers, amazing cirriculumn. Wish they went all the way thru 12th grade. We love, love love this school.
Posted: November 8, 2011
We love the school. Our daughter is in kindergarten and she is just thriving there. Everyone on the staff is positive and looking out the her best interest.
Posted: August 15, 2011
Sending my daughter to Bell Shoals for middle school was the best decision we ever made. My sons had gone to public middle schools where the atmosphere is often negative and came home every day with bad attitudes. At BSBA the teachers are loving and pray for each child, the Principals are attentive and deeply care about parent input. The students are great and the learning environment is positive and very hands on. Not sure what Principal that other parent was talking about, but I have found each of the Principals there extremely approachable at any time about any thing.
Posted: June 26, 2011
Most teachers at Bell Shoals are kind and caring, especially lower grade teachers. Academic wise, average to little above average. Principle doesn't seem very friendly and approachable. Overall, you are better off saving several thousands dollars a year if you can find a nice neighborhood school to put your kids in, and there are quite few you can find in the area.
Reviews provided by GreatSchools™
| # | Name | Type | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | FishHawk Ranch | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Lithia | FL | 5.1 mi | |
| 2 | Fish Hawk Ranch | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Lithia | FL | 5.7 mi | |
| 3 | Fishhawk Ranch | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Lithia | FL | 6.4 mi | |
| 4 | Panther Trace | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Riverview | FL | 7.5 mi | |
| 5 | Avelar Creek | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Riverview | FL | 8.3 mi | |
| 6 | Hyde Park | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Tampa | FL | 13 mi | |
| 7 | The Pavillions | Apartment Complex | Tampa | FL | 13.9 mi | |
| 8 | Harbour Isles | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Apollo Beach | FL | 14.8 mi | |
| 9 | Westchase | Neighborhood/Subdivision | Tampa | FL | 22.4 mi |
| # | Name | City | State | Overall Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fishhawk Ranch /Lithia FL | Lithia | FL | 5.9 mi | |
| 2 | South Tampa | Tampa | FL | 14.2 mi | |
| 3 | South of Gandy (SOG) | Tampa | FL | 14.3 mi |
| Base | Distance |
|---|---|
| MacDill AFB | 13.9 mi. |
| Coast Guard Clearwater | 26 mi. |
