North Florida Performing Arts Academy

Submitted - North Florida Performing Arts Academy, in Lake City, is a private school that serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, providing a unique, arts-infused curriculum which gives students a winning edge both academically and socially. Dare to be different! Choose to be Great!

Principal Tony Buzzella, along with wife and Director of Operations Abby Buzzella, would like to invite parents and students to come and check out their school to consider enrolling for the 2025-2026 school year. It is not too late.

     The school’s slogan is ‘Dare to be Different, Choose to be Great!’. Students and parents can expect a safe, wholesome and bully-free school. They not only teach academics, but the arts as well, something many schools are having less of today.

    At North Florida Performing Arts Academy students get the best of both worlds with high academic achievement based on national standardized testing (recognized by every university in the country), and daily exposure to music, art, drama and dance, along with regular physical exercise with their PE program.

     North Florida Performing Arts Academy is a safe and happy learning center where students are guided on how to work together, play together and respect each other.

     Classes are smaller, therefore students are able to receive more individual attention to keep all students focused, inspired and engaged.

     Students experience leadership training, character education and public speaking skills as they develop.

     The school offers frequent educational field trips that include enjoyable visits to museums, historical locations and festivals. Students participate in community events such as Olustee Festival, Blueberry Festival, holiday events and parades.

     The school motto is: “If It Is To Be, It Is Up To Me”.

     Their educational philosophy applies a kinesthetic curriculum where children learn by doing. They believe hands-on and minds-on discovery encourages the development of personal responsibility, decision making and problem-solving in both intellectual and interpersonal areas.

     Developing the love of learning in an arts-centered atmosphere builds a commitment and passion, encouraging all students to become life-long learners and positive contributors to society.

     Principal Buzzella has served the local community for over 45 years as an educator and community leader. He holds a Professional Certification (the highest certification level) from the Florida Department of Education, in music education (K-12) and School Administration (all levels).

     The school’s teachers meet strict requirements according to Florida Statutes and are each carefully screened and vetted.

     With Florida’s new School Choice law that went into effect in 2023, up to 100% of the tuition is covered for all Florida students, no matter the income. The money now follows the student, giving parents the right to choose which school they would like their child to attend.

     The Performing Arts Academy also accepts most scholarships. Visit: StepUpForStudents.org for more information.

     Call North Florida Performing Arts Academy at 386-628-1606 to set up an appointment for a visit today. The school is located at 1175 NW Lake Jeffery Rd, Lake City, FL 32055.