Family Voices
What do families say about East Pasco Adventist Academy?
East Pasco Adventist Academy is a Christ-centered school in Dade City, Florida. Families here describe a
small, family-like community where children are known by name, feel safe, receive one-on-one attention
from teachers, and are taught a faith that shapes how they treat one another.
Student
Noah F.
"The teachers and the students are really nice."
Student
Dakotah S.
“The students are really funny and welcoming, too. And so are the teachers and the teachers aides."
Parent
Chanée Foster
“I wanted my daughter to have more than an Adventist culture but a truly Bible-based experience at school. The academics are already here, but I also wanted God to be a part of her entire life. We get that at WHAA."
Parent
John D.
“I send all three of my kids to WHAA. From each other, they are developing strong characters from the teachers, as well as through their interactions with other wonderful kids here."
Teacher
Agnes Shepard
“After teaching in public schools for over 30 years, it’s so wonderful being in a Christian environment. Being able to live and teach biblical values has made the past nine years here my favorite."
Teacher
Adam Jarvis
“My favorite part of working here has been the supportive staff. Everyone is so kind and loving, and it has been one of my favorite years."
Testimonials
Message from the Principal
Jesse Benton
I serve as Principal of East Pasco Adventist Academy (EPAA), where I am committed to supporting student growth, strong academics, and Christ-centered character development. I began my career in Seventh-day Adventist education, teaching history at Highland View Academy in Maryland, where I served for nine years before continuing my work in Florida.
At EPAA, my focus is on creating a supportive environment where every student is known, encouraged, and challenged to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. I value the close-knit community that defines our school and believe that strong partnerships between families and educators are essential to student success.
It is a privilege to serve the EPAA community and to work alongside dedicated teachers and families as we prepare students for lives of purpose, leadership, and service.
Get to know EPAA
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about tuition, Step Up For Students, faith, safety, and visiting East Pasco Adventist Academy in Dade City.
Talk with the EPAA office
For 2026-27, EPAA tuition is $8,850 a year for kindergarten through 8th grade, or $885 a month for 10 months, and $12,950 for 9th and 10th grade, or $1,295 a month. Registration is $750, paying the full year up front saves 3% on tuition, and before and after care is $7.50 an hour. Step Up For Students scholarships apply toward this cost. Every detail is on our tuition page.
Families answer that best: in EPAA's annual culture survey, they name Christ-focused learning, caring teachers, a safe environment, and strong academics with personalized support. At EPAA, Adventist education means a well-balanced spiritual, academic, social, and physical education in a Christ-centered environment. EPAA is accredited through the Adventist Accrediting Association and the Florida Association of Non-Public Schools. To see it for yourself, call (352) 567-3646 to plan a visit.
Florida's private school scholarship through Step Up For Students averages about $8,000, and yes, EPAA accepts the Family Empowerment Scholarships. Florida students eligible for kindergarten through 12th grade can apply regardless of household income, and amounts vary by county and grade. For the 2026-27 school year, new families can apply until November 15, 2026. Apply or log in at Step Up For Students and check current dates there.
Many families ask this, and the answer is no. Families who are not Adventist are warmly welcome to apply to EPAA. We ask that your family wants a Christian education for your child and supports the school's Christ-centered standards. Your child will find Bible-based learning, daily worship, and teachers who care. Call (352) 567-3646 or email EPAA@flcoe.org to talk it through.
That is one of the most important questions a parent can ask. EPAA families describe a safe environment, with attentive staff, secure campus practices, and a caring community. Teachers build genuine relationships with students. We would gladly walk you through how EPAA keeps students safe, on a campus tour or by phone at (352) 567-3646.
Yes, and visiting first is the best place to start. Enrolling takes three steps: schedule a campus tour, where you can walk the campus, meet teachers, and sit in on a class; complete the printable application and bring it to the school office; and submit the new-family checklist with it. There is no pressure, no obligation, and no cost to visit. Call (352) 567-3646 or email EPAA@flcoe.org.