Each month, our spotlight series highlights a local organization making a meaningful impact in the Tampa Bay community. These are the groups doing important work that often flies under the radar. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Focus Academy, a Tampa-based public charter school dedicated to empowering students with special needs through education, creativity, and community.
Founded in 2012, Focus Academy began with a group of parents who shared one vision, to create a school where students with cognitive and developmental challenges would be truly seen, supported, and set up for lifelong success. As a tuition-free Florida public charter school, Focus Academy provides a community where every student feels valued, connected, and capable.
Their innovative and integrated teaching approach blends education with therapeutic principles, helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Through these partnerships and programs, Focus Academy equips students with the confidence, communication, and life skills needed to live purposeful, enriched lives both in and beyond the classroom.
What makes Focus Academy truly unique is its drama therapy approach, an innovative way of learning that uses role-play, storytelling, and performance to help students express themselves, build self-awareness, and strengthen communication and social skills. Drama therapy allows students to explore emotions and real-world scenarios in a safe, creative environment, encouraging growth that extends far beyond the classroom.
Under the leadership of Principal Elisabeth Kraft-Radka, Focus Academy continues to be a space where every student is valued for who they are. Through small class sizes, personalized instruction, and a strong sense of belonging, the school equips students with the tools to achieve academic success and meaningful independence.
We’re inspired by the work Focus Academy is doing to help students grow with confidence and creativity right here in Tampa Bay. Learn more about Focus Academy at https://focusacademytampa.org.