Franklin Military Academy
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| Franklin Military Academy | |
|---|---|
| Address | |
701 North 37th Street Richmond , Virginia 23223 United States | |
| Information | |
| School type | Public military academy |
| Established | 1980 |
| School district | Richmond City Public Schools |
| Grades | 6–12 |
| Enrollment | ~300–350 |
| Campus type | Urban |
| Website | fma |
Franklin Military Academy is a public coeducational military-style middle and high school located in Richmond, Virginia, United States. Serving students in grades 6 through 12, the school operates as part of Richmond City Public Schools. Franklin Military Academy is widely recognized as the first public military school in the United States and combines a college-preparatory academic curriculum with leadership training through the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC).
History
Franklin Military Academy opened in August 1980 under the name Franklin Military School. The concept emerged from discussions by the Richmond School Board and the school division superintendent, who sought to establish a structured academic environment emphasizing discipline, leadership, and student accountability. A community survey conducted at the time showed support for the proposal.
The school initially admitted ninth-grade students through a screening process. By 1983, Franklin expanded to offer a complete high school program serving grades 9 through 12. Over time, the academy expanded to include middle school grades.
Franklin Military Academy has operated in multiple facilities since its founding. It is currently located in the historic Onslow Minnis Building at 701 North 37th Street in Richmond.
Mission and educational approach
The mission of Franklin Military Academy centers on academic excellence, leadership development, and honorable citizenship. The school uses a military framework to reinforce structure, responsibility, and personal discipline while maintaining a public-school curriculum aligned with Virginia academic standards.
All students participate in military science courses and follow a regimented daily schedule. In addition to core academic subjects, the academy offers electives including world languages, music, arts, business, information technology, and Advanced Placement courses.
Academics and programs
Franklin Military Academy provides instruction aligned with the Virginia Standards of Learning. The school incorporates daily leadership training and military science instruction through its JROTC program.
The academy is classified as a specialty school within Richmond City Public Schools and maintains a relatively low student–teacher ratio compared to traditional comprehensive schools.
Student body
Franklin Military Academy enrolls approximately 300 to 350 students across grades 6 through 12. The school serves a diverse student population drawn from across the City of Richmond.
According to state and independent educational reports, the academy consistently reports strong graduation rates and student performance outcomes relative to district and state averages.
Admissions
Admission to Franklin Military Academy is based on an application process administered by Richmond City Public Schools. Students typically apply for entry at the sixth-grade or ninth-grade levels. As a specialty school, enrollment is limited and subject to selection criteria.
Extracurricular activities
In addition to military training and academics, students may participate in band, chorus, visual arts, drill teams, and interscholastic athletics through the Richmond Public Schools system. Community service and educational field experiences are also emphasized components of student life.
Facilities
Franklin Military Academy is housed in the Onslow Minnis Building in Richmond’s East End. The facility includes classrooms, administrative offices, and spaces dedicated to leadership instruction and ceremonial activities.
References
External links
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