(Fullerton, CA) – Fullerton has a storied legacy in athletics with greats like LA Dodger Tommy Lasorda. Many standout athletes from Fullerton have found success in basketball, baseball, football, dance, and other sports. Fullerton has historically been an athletic pipeline to top NCAA Division I colleges, such as University of Kentucky, UCLA, USC, Duke, Oregon State and University of Florida, amongst others.
In keeping the tradition alive, Fullerton School District (FSD) is offering a new opportunity for advanced athlete students. Beginning in August (pending official Board of Trustees approval), advanced athletes entering 6th through 8th grades may be able to attend a Performance Academy Sports Program of their choice, filling the niche of offering first class coaching, conditioning, and strength training while attending free, in person school. FSD welcomes all advanced sports and dance academy students are welcome.
As an alternative to charter institutions and online education platforms, FSD’s Performance Academy Sports Program offers a unique collaboration, affording students the freedom to select their preferred pathway to athletic and academic excellence. With options available for students from 6th to 8th grade, including transportation between schools, the academy ensures seamless integration of academics and athletics. FSD is working in collaboration with an established sports academy to provide athletic training on site specializing in football, basketball, baseball, and softball, or a student athlete may choose their own approved sports or dance academy.
Students enrolled in the Performance Academy will have the invaluable opportunity to participate in advanced academic classes, an array of elective courses, and extracurricular activities, clubs, and social events, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. “Fullerton School District is looking forward to offering an additional personalized learning pathway to help advanced student athletes to pursue their passions through opportunities supported by a network of sports/dance professionals. This provides an additional opportunity for FSD students to pursue their interests at an elite level,” shared Dr. Bob Pletka, Superintendent.
Students who meet the criteria to participate in the Performance Academy will undergo rigorous training designed to enhance mobility, power, strength, agility, and mental fortitude, equipping them with the competitive edge required for success on and off the field. Additionally, students will benefit from a multifaceted curriculum encompassing crucial facets of athlete development, including nutrition, portfolio building, recruitment strategies, exploration of sports-related professions, and exposure to external opportunities. In addition, students will have the privilege of engaging in immersive field trips to esteemed universities, broadening their horizons and igniting their passion for higher education.
FSD’s Performance Academy is designed as an alternative to charter and on-line schools to help the next generation of athletes to seize their potential toward athletic greatness while allowing students to participate in an on-campus public school. FSD will be hosting two Parent Information Meetings about the Performance Academy Sports Program on May 1 or May 30, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Parks Junior High School. More information about the Academy, along with an Intent to Participate Form, can be found on the FSD website at https://www.fullertonsd.org/PerformanceAcademy.
The Fullerton School District is located in northern Orange County, California and serves over 11,600 students in grades TK – 8th. The Fullerton School District includes 21 schools, 15 elementary schools, two K-8th grade schools, three middle schools, and a distance learning and home school model. The mission of the Fullerton School District is to work collaboratively with the community to provide an innovative, high-quality educational program for all students in a safe learning environment. The District motto, “Great Schools – Successful Kids” exemplifies the belief that all students will achieve academic excellence, acquire interpersonal skills, and develop technological expertise to contribute as productive citizens in a democratic society. For more information, call 714/447-7400 or visit www.fullertonsd.org.
