Military Families
Beaches Chapel School is honored to be a Purple Star School of Distinction where we proudly support and celebrate our Military families. Founded in 1974, BCS is a private Christian, college preparatory school serving students in grades K–12, offering consistency, structure, and academic excellence—qualities that are especially valuable for students who have experienced frequent moves. With small class sizes and a close‑knit community, BCS quickly integrates new students, helping them feel known, supported, and academically confident. The school’s rigorous curriculum builds strong foundational skills while allowing for flexibility and individualized attention, which can be critical for military-connected students adjusting to a new school system. We are located in Neptune Beach, conveniently located by three military bases (Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Jax and Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base.)
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Beaches Chapel School understands that military families often face continual transitions, including frequent relocations and adjustments to new schools and communities, and we are intentional about supporting students through those changes. We recognize the emotional and academic impact these transitions can have, and we respond with a strong network of care that helps students feel welcomed, connected, and confident. Through partnerships with organizations such as Anchored4Life, which supports students navigating transition and change, and our Student Ambassador Program, newly enrolled students are thoughtfully paired with trained peer ambassadors who serve as mentors, guides, and friendly points of connection. These ambassadors help new students navigate daily routines, build relationships, and feel at home from their very first days on campus. This layered approach of support reflects our commitment to honoring the unique experiences of military-connected families and ensuring every student is known, supported, and prepared to thrive.
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CONTACTS:
School Liason: Erica Ashmore
ericaashmore@beacheschapel.com
Admissions & Enrollment: Cheryl Abbott
Cherylabbott@beascheschapel.com
Academic Advisor: Kathy McWilliams
Kathymcwilliams@beacheschapel.com
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Academics
BCS places a strong emphasis on preparing students for post-secondary education, making it an excellent choice for families planning long-term academic success despite the uncertainty of frequent relocations. Students benefit from a challenging, well-sequenced curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and personal responsibility—key strengths for college and future careers. To further support military families and educational accessibility, Beaches Chapel School proudly accepts Step Up for Students scholarships, including the Family Empowerment Scholarship – Educational Options (FES-EO), Family Empowerment Scholarship – Unique Abilities (FES-UA), and the HOPE Scholarship.
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Beaches Chapel 9-12th Course Offerings
Extra Curricular
​Beaches Chapel School is committed to providing military-connected students with meaningful extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities that allow them to grow, connect, and thrive beyond the classroom. Our robust athletic program offers a wide variety of sports and competitive opportunities, and as a proud member of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), students can participate in athletics that promote teamwork, discipline, and resilience—qualities especially impactful for military children. In addition, BCS offers over 30 clubs and activity groups that reflect a wide range of interests, from arts and service to leadership and STEM, allowing students to quickly find their niche and build community. Leadership and academic honors programs such as the National Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) further provide students with opportunities to develop character, scholarship, and service. Through these diverse offerings, Beaches Chapel School ensures military children have personalized pathways to pursue their interests, form lasting connections, and build confidence—supporting their well-being and success during times of transition.
Events
Beaches Chapel School intentionally creates meaningful events that honor and support military families, recognizing both their sacrifices and the unique dynamics of military life. Each April, during the Month of the Military Child, our chapel service highlights and celebrates military-connected students, acknowledging their resilience and strength. We also host family-centered traditions such as Donuts with Dads and Moments with Moms, and we remain mindful that military parents may be deployed or unable to attend. For these special occasions, students are encouraged to invite any significant, supportive adult in their lives, ensuring every child feels included and celebrated. Military parents who are available are also warmly welcomed as campus volunteers, serving in meaningful ways that support school programs and strengthen community connections. In addition, BCS hosts a quarterly lunch known as Purple Lions, named for the color that represents military children, where students from military families gather to connect with peers, share experiences, and enjoy time in a supportive, affirming environment. Together, these events reflect our deep commitment to fostering belonging, honoring service, and supporting military families well beyond the classroom.