What makes Falls Church Academy so special?

Top 10 Reasons Falls Church Academy is an amazing place to learn about health and human service careers

Falls Church Academy offers 12 health and human service courses for students grades 10-12. Students come to the Academy from 20+ different base schools within Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to take these specialized health and human service courses to enhance their career knowledge and experience.  Most Academy courses offer industry related certifications paid for by FCPS, first attempt. 

Preparing Students for On-Demand Healthcare and Human Service Careers and College Pathways

We offer specialized courses that prepare students for in-demand healthcare and human service careers, including an exclusive LPN program for high school students. Students can earn college credits through dual enrollment, with courses held during the regular school day as electives—some even offering honors weight. This ensures students benefit from advanced opportunities without extending their school hours.

Educational Community Service Experiences 

Falls Church Academy fosters community service through hands-on educational experiences. Students gain practical skills by participating in vision and hearing screenings across multiple FCPS schools, organizing blood drives in nursing courses, and conducting dental screenings at local elementary schools. Additionally, community donation drives emphasize the importance of giving back and supporting those in need.

High Quality Work Based Learning Experiences

Falls Church Academy offers high-quality work-based learning experiences to prepare students for real-world success. Opportunities include field trips, job shadowing, and observerships, along with clinical training at local medical facilities. These experiences bridge classroom learning with professional practice, equipping students with valuable insights and skills.

Connections with Industry Professionals

Falls Church Academy connects students with industry professionals for real-world learning experiences. Partnerships with organizations like Inova Fair Oaks ER, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue, and local dental offices provide invaluable exposure to healthcare careers. Collaborations with Giant Pharmacy, Walgreens Pharmacy, Inova Health System clinics, Sunrise Senior Living, and Goodwin House further enhance students' understanding of the healthcare field through hands-on engagement.

State of the Art Newly Renovated Academic Space and Equipment

In April, 2025 Falls Church Academy will receive a newly constructed Academy space with larger classrooms to allow for more hospital/clinic simulated equipment and clinic lab environment.  The EMT class will receive an in-classroom ambulance simulator, Dental Careers will have a three chair simulated clinic in addition to larger classroom space, Pharmacy Technician classes will be set-up with a mock pharmacy for in-class hands-on experiences.

Industry Recognized Certifications

Falls Church Academy prepares students for industry-recognized certifications through specialized academy courses. Certifications include NREMT for EMTs, CCMA for medical assistants, and DANB for dental careers. Students can also earn CNA, PCT, and NCLEX-PN credentials in nursing pathways, alongside certifications for pharmacy techs and CPR. These qualifications provide a strong foundation for future careers in healthcare.

Active Hands-On Learning

Falls Church Academy emphasizes active, hands-on learning to deepen students’ understanding of healthcare careers. From Mass Casualty Incident simulations involving all courses to in-class instruction using industry-standard equipment, students gain practical skills and real-world experience. This immersive approach helps students explore healthcare pathways more thoroughly and confidently.

Strong Relationships with Industry Leaders 

Falls Church Academy builds strong relationships with industry leaders who enhance students' learning experiences. These partners provide guest speakers, internships, and hands-on opportunities, helping students connect classroom knowledge to real-world career paths. Field trips and career guidance further bridge the gap between education and future opportunities.

Industry Experienced Staff Who Teach Their Profession

Falls Church Academy’s healthcare courses are led by industry-experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Our staff includes licensed professionals such as registered nurses, a pharmacy technician, a retired fire captain, a dental hygienist, and even a Navy captain. Their practical knowledge ensures students receive high-quality, career-focused education directly from experts in the field.

Instructional Leaders

Falls Church Academy supports students with a strong instructional leadership team, including an Academy Counselor, Career Experience Specialist, ESOL Specialist, and Special Education Support Team. These experts guide students toward successful career and college pathways, ensuring personalized support for every learner.

Because health and human service professionals often work in collaboration with others, staff, patients and loved ones; teachers and students within the Academy programs often work across the curriculum to learn teamwork, share their learned knowledge and learn hands-on skills with each other to create a synergistic environment.