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Fun and educational summer camps that keep boys active and intellectually stimulated during the break.

Best Top Sports Programs | After School Summer Camps | Kids in The Game

Kids Sports game organize many sports program and Motive of kids sports game is to encourage students to participate in sports program. Kids sports students while participating in sports program become active, developed their skills, improve themselves and many more. Kids sports game has also organised summer camps for kids so that they can utilise their time to do something better and they experience great environment and best coaches.



Summer Learning Camps

Interactive workshops designed to build leadership, empathy, and resilience in boys, supporting their growth as well-rounded individuals.

Character Development Workshops

Programs focused on physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health to support the holistic well-being of each student.

221030-N-VQ841-1092 PUERTO BARRIOS, Guatemala (Oct. 30, 2022) Capt. Kathryn Elliott, commanding officer of Medical Treatment Facility aboard hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), right, checks on a young patient aboard Comfort, Oct. 30, 2022. Comfort is deployed to U.S. 4th Fleet in support of Continuing Promise 2022, a humanitarian assistance and goodwill mission conducting direct medical care, expeditionary veterinary care, and subject matter expert exchanges with five partner nations in the Caribbean, Central and South America. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ethan J. Soto)

Health and Wellness Programs

A variety of engaging activities including arts, sports, and STEM to enhance learning beyond the classroom.

Urban street art graffiti - FUCK SCHOOL. Made with analog vintage lens, Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon red MC 2.8 20mm (Year: 1976)

After-School Enrichment Programs

SHINE On! Dream Big

Upcoming Campaigns & Events

Focused lessons on physical health, mental well-being, and nutrition tailored for young boys.

Cute loving daughter is helping mother with salad cutting cucumbers feeding young woman and laughing having fun at home. People and cookery concept.

Health and Wellness Education

Programs that encourage boys to give back and connect with the community, building empathy and civic responsibility.

Happiness of the poor children.
Taken in Chupah district, Gialai province Vietnam.

Community Service Initiatives

Workshops and events that empower families to support their boys' education and character growth.

Experienced male potter is mixing and kneading clay while his cute young grandson is helping him in little workshop. Pottery, family tradition and childhood concept.

Family Engagement Workshops

2025-26 School Calendar

VMA Parent Success Program

Parent Notices & Compliance

At Visible Men Academy, we believe student success is strongest when families and schools work together. We value open communication, collaboration, and shared responsibility in supporting the growth of our young men.This page provides access to the school calendar and information about our Parent Success Program, designed to empower families through connection, resources, and engagement. Our goal is to ensure every family feels informed, supported, and equipped throughout the school year.

Co-founded by Louis Parker, Visible Men Academy was established with a clear vision: to create a school where young men are seen, supported, and challenged to rise to their full potential. That founding vision continues to shape our culture, programming, and commitment to student success today.Visible Men Academy exists to educate and empower young men through academic excellence, strong character formation, and a deep belief in every student’s potential. As a public, tuition-free school serving boys in grades K–5, we are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and structured environment where students can grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.Our work is rooted in partnership — with families, educators, community leaders, and supporters who believe that when young men are invested in, entire communities are strengthened. Transparency, accountability, and strong governance are essential to sustaining that mission and ensuring long-term impact.Below, you’ll find information about the governance structures that guide Visible Men Academy as we steward our mission and serve our students and families.

We are proud to partner with families who are committed to raising confident, educated, and values-driven young people. At VMA, we welcome families who prioritize strong academics, character development, and leadership as essential foundations for their child’s success.

ENROLLMENT FOR 2026-27 IS NOW OPEN

Opportunities for students to give back and develop a sense of social responsibility through local community involvement.

Habitat for Humanity project with undergraduate students working during spring break.

Community Service Projects

Engaging activities that extend learning beyond the classroom, including arts, sports, and STEM clubs.

Resources and counseling to help boys develop healthy emotional skills and resilience.

Social-Emotional Learning Support

Programs and events that encourage active parent participation in their child’s education and school community.

Young man fighting pillows with little son having fun on bed in apartment

Parent Engagement Initiatives

August: • 11: First day of school at the 13th Ave. Dream CenterSeptember: • 1: Labor Day – No school • 2: First day of school in our new buildingOctober:   • 13: Record Day – No school for students • 17: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 21: Picture Day • 22: Picture Make Up Day • 24: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 27-31 VMA Spirit Days • 27: Superhero Day • 28:Sports Day • 29:Hat Day • 30: Dress for Success Day 31:Bring an appropriate Halloween costume for the 2:00 PM parade &amp; Trunk or TreatNovember: • 5: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 8: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AM • 11: Veteran’s Day – No school • 24-28: Thanksgiving Holiday (possible hurricane make-up days)December: • 13: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AM • 22-31: Winter Break – No school

Aug - Dec 2025

January: • 1-5: No school for students • 6: Students return • 10: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AM • 19: ML King Birthday – No school • 23: 100th Day of School – Dress like you’re 100 years oldFebruary: • 11: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 14: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AM • 16: Presidents’ Day – No schoolMarch: • 13: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 14: Family Pie Day – 9:00-11:30 AM • 16-20: Spring Break – No school • 23: Record Day – No school for studentsApril: • 2: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 3: Good Friday – No school • 11: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AMMay:• 4-8: Team Member Appreciation Days • 5: Memorial Day – No school • 9: Saturday Success – 9:00-11:30 AM •26-28: Early Release (11:45 AM) for students • 28: Fifth Grade Moving on Celebration at 10:00 AM • 28: Last Student Day (leave at 11:45 AM)

Mother and daugther learning together via laptop.

Jan - May 2026

2025-26 SCHEDULE OF SCHOOL EVENTS

Children playing in the street
Children in some areas do not have enough access to parks and green spaces

A poll center at Joypara Pilot High School in Dohar, Dhaka during 12th General election, were held in Bangladesh on 7 January 2024, at 11:47 AM.

Anjuman Mat. hr. Sec. School boy's section smart classroom

Santri PP Darul Arqam Muhammadiyah Gombara

A group of children in the village | village boy | 

Selflessness. Honesty. Integrity. Niceness. Excellence.Welcome To Visible Men AcademyAt Visible Men Academy, our SHINE values guide everything we do. We provide a nurturing environment where boys in grades K-5 receive quality education and character development. Our commitment is to support the growth of every boy and family, fostering the whole person. Join us in shaping bright, confident young men ready to thrive.

Let Your Light SHINE

Thanks To Our Donors - You Make This Possible

Contact Us

We emphasize building integrity, respect, and responsibility to shape boys into confident and ethical young men.

Character Development

We cultivate social skills and leadership qualities to prepare boys to be proactive and positive contributors to society.

Social Skills and Leadership

We actively involve families in the educational journey to create a supportive and collaborative community.

Father and child playing computer game using laptop in apartment having fun at home indoors. Modern technology, contemporary devices and lifestyle concept.

Family Engagement

At Visible Men Academy, we partner with families to support each child’s academic growth, character development, and leadership potential. Parents are an essential part of our community, and we believe students thrive when school and home work together.

Information for Parents

VMA provides a structured, supportive learning environment where students are challenged academically and encouraged to grow in character. Through strong instruction, mentorship, and meaningful relationships, we help students build confidence, responsibility, and a love for learning.

Learn About VMA

Supporting Visible Men Academy means becoming a philanthropic partner in our mission. Your generosity helps create meaningful opportunities for our students and strengthens a school built on character, excellence, and hope for the future. We are deeply grateful for your investment in helping our students shine.

Become A Philanthropic Partner

Joyful child is busy doing homework using laptop typing then taking notes in notebook writing sitting at desk at home. Education and modern technology concept.

Our Board of Directors values the opinions of our parents and welcomes feedback. If you have a complaint, or would like an item added to our Governing Board Agenda, please contact our Board Chairman, Naiema Frieson.

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION TO VISIBLE MEN ACADEMY!

Your personal donation of up to $500.00 may be eligible for matching funds through the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://donate.flanzertrust.org/">Louis and Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust</a>, doubling your impact to Visible Men Academy.&nbsp; Restrictions apply – please review <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://flanzertrust.org/eligibility/">the Trust’s terms and conditions</a> to see if your contribution qualifies.

PLEASE NOTE — When you click on the donate button below, you will be taken to the Flanzer Trust PayPal page where you make a donation to Visible Men Academy . We thank you for your support!

Initiatives designed to strengthen family involvement in education through workshops and community events.

Family Engagement Programs

Vickie Harrell

Dr. Tami Stearns

Director of Development &amp; Community Engagement

Jovan Hemenez

Carrie Wolfe

Maria Mata

Administration

Encouraging exploration and environmental stewardship through nature-based learning and activities.

Outdoor Learning Adventures

Lyndsey Bartoo

Kathy Bogad

Lindsay Blanc

Anna Teris

Scott Davis

Instructional Staff

Loving daughter adorable child is giving present to happy mother, grateful woman is hugging girl expressing love and gratitude. People and lifestyle concept.

Naiema Frieson

Melissa Dunlap

Willitone Petit

Dad and son using laptop typing smiling looking at screen sitting on sofa at home enjoying internet content. Contemporary devices and family life concept.

Dr. Janet Taylor, MD, MPH

Marilyn Kline

Henry Katz

Kay Latimore

Louis Parker

Frequently Asked Questions

A key part of the VMA experience is our Parent Success Program, designed to support and empower the families of our students. Through a two-generation approach, we invest in parents while they invest in their children—strengthening the entire family and school community.Our data shows that families who actively participate in the Parent Success Program experience:<ul><li>Improved academic outcomes</li><li>Reduced behavioral concerns</li><li>Increased student attendance</li></ul>Throughout the school year, VMA offers free parenting classes and family dinners that create space for learning, connection, and encouragement. Parents who consistently engage in the program may earn access to additional supports such as free uniforms, gas cards, job search assistance, case management, family events, and more. Childcare and meals are provided at every parent class at no cost.The Parent Success Program is made possible through strong community partnerships with organizations whose services, expertise, and mission align with the needs of our families. Visible Men Academy is proud to be part of the Aspen Ascend Network, a national group of innovative two-generation leaders working to break cycles of poverty and expand economic mobility.Our VMA families are essential to our success—and together, we help our community SHINE.To learn more about VMA Parent Engagement and Support Initiatives, please contact:Maria Mata, Family Liaison

Below is our current student capacity and seat availability by grade level. This information is updated every 12 weeks and may change as enrollment fluctuates throughout the year.Families interested in enrollment are encouraged to apply at any time to be considered for available seats or placement on the waiting list. For the most up-to-date availability, please feel free to contact the school directly.Total School Capacity: 134 studentsGRADE LEVEL | CAPACITY | AVAILABLE SEATSKindergarten | 8 | 41st Grade | 8 | 42nd Grade | 8 | 03rd Grade | 8 | 04th Grade | 8 | 25th Grade | 8 | 0LOTTERY DETAILSControlled Open Enrollment Florida has an open borders policy. Controlled Open Enrollment allows a parent from any school district in the state to enroll his or her child in and transport his or her child to any public school, including charter schools, that has not reached capacity.For more information, please visit FL DOE’s website:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="http://www.fldoe.org/schools/school-choice/other-school-choice-options/controlled-open-enrollment.stml">Controlled Open Enrollment</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://www.fldoe.org/contact-us/americans-with-disabilities-act-ada-co.stml">Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinators &amp; Compliance</a></li></ul>

Encouraging self-expression and creativity through visual arts, music, and drama tailored for young boys.

Arts and Creativity Classes

Hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math experiences designed to inspire curiosity and critical thinking.

STEM Enrichment Activities

Promoting healthy lifestyles with fun physical activities and wellness education for boys in grades K-5.

Physical Fitness and Wellness

Governing Board Members

Governance

VMA Board MeetingsNEXT BOARD MEETING - May 21st @ 4:30PM<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="OWAAutoLink" href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86737521381?pwd=pH0rAthUJ8U3jMhRoKFg5PnuRt7QVh.1">Zoom Link</a> Meeting ID: 867 3752 1381 Passcode: 650956Meetings are Third Thursdays of the Month, 4:30 p.m. Upcoming Meetings: TBD2026 Meeting MinutesApr. 16, 2026Mar. 26, 2026Feb. 26, 2026<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/103VeXfJfdHCQCnWoAkSnG7iJ5A-HIGV0/view?usp=sharing">Jan. 24, 2026</a>

Concentrated young boy is molding clay into ceramic pot on spinning throwing wheel and his loving experienced grandfather is talking to him. Pottery and family tradition concept.

VMA Board Meetings

2025 Meeting MinutesDecember - Board did not meet<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Nj05zbp-5JMXjQCdpYp2syl61mxB4gv5/view?usp=share_link">Nov. 11, 2025</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wG3J45VlUDu_uMDhhV0JkXab_JEGfa33/view?usp=share_link">Oct. 9,2025</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1znE0QCk0M1xBJjKVKcEGUc_OjCZMZ9oo/view?usp=share_link">Sept. 11, 2025</a><a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/152e0imLQGgC-EtZhNMSo8acq7JOB_VW3/view?usp=share_link">Aug. 4, 2025</a>July - Board did not meet<a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MVnsfUoj1-FJajzQLkY6_Jx4_SyBcfzp/view?usp=share_link">June 14,2025</a>May&nbsp; 8, 2025*<a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nfDl4xs_jX2VgXFmiG-pcqiedElUxK0N/view?usp=share_link">April 10, 2025</a>Mar. 13, 2025*Feb. 13, 2025*January - Board did not meet

chair scrambles at indonesian traditional contest

Board Meetings

Governance & Board Meetings

At Visible Men Academy, we believe academic excellence and character development go hand in hand. Our mission is to provide students with a high-quality education that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, socially, and morally—within a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment.VMA is built on strong collaboration. Administrators, teachers, families, community partners, and students work together to create a culture where high expectations are met with encouragement, accountability, and care. This shared commitment ensures that every student is seen, supported, and challenged to grow.Our vision is to develop students who recognize their inherent value and potential—young people who are grounded in character, connected to their families and communities, and aware of their role in the world around them. Through rigorous academics, intentional mentorship, and leadership development, VMA equips students with the confidence, discipline, and skills needed to succeed in middle school, high school, and beyond.By exposing students to real-world possibilities and future pathways, we help them take ownership of their education and their future. The result is a foundation for lifelong learning, purposeful leadership, and meaningful contribution to family, community, and society.

The VMA Philosophy

At Visible Men Academy, our Success Principles form the foundation of our character and social development curriculum. Each area represents a core skill or mindset that supports students academically, personally, and socially, helping them grow into confident, capable leaders.Dreaming: Encouraging students to imagine future possibilities—school, career, family life, financial independence, and personal goals—so they can map and pursue meaningful futures.&nbsp;Character Development: Instilling values like integrity, ethical conduct, honor, and personal principles that guide decision-making and daily behavior.&nbsp;Personal Presence: Building confidence and social poise through positive engagement, respectful conduct, and strong communication.&nbsp;Relationships: Teaching healthy interpersonal skills that foster strong connections with family, peers, and communities, including respect in all interactions.&nbsp;Health: Promoting self-care habits that support physical, emotional, and mental well-being, such as fitness, nutrition, and sleep.&nbsp;Achievement Attitude: Developing resilience, goal-setting, self-advocacy, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.&nbsp;Work Ethic: Cultivating dedication, motivation, focus, and a willingness to persevere through challenges.&nbsp;Citizenship: Encouraging teamwork, accountability, service, and awareness of community and global responsibilities.&nbsp;Spiritual Development: Supporting students in exploring purpose, meaning, and values that transcend self, enriching their inner life and perspective.&nbsp;Leadership: Equipping students with the confidence, communication, responsibility, and influence to lead by example and inspire others.&nbsp;SummaryTogether, these principles help VMA students strengthen their character, embrace challenges, and develop the academic and life skills needed for success both in school and beyond.&nbsp;

VMA Keys to Success

Special Event:“An Afternoon with Jerry Lynn”Saturday, February 21 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PMThis exclusive daytime gathering will offer guests the opportunity to meet Jerry Lynn in an intimate setting, hear directly from the artist about his creative journey, and engage in conversation around art, culture, and community. Light refreshments and a curated art experience will be provided.Highlighting Local ArtistsIn addition to the featured works of Jerry Lynn, the 2026 showcase will also highlight talented local artists, further celebrating Sarasota and Manatee County’s vibrant creative community:<ul><li>Dominic Avant - an award-winning figurative painter whose work has received national recognition, including a 2024 commission by Disney for its Inclusion Series, with his painting Awakening now on display at the Grand Californian Hotel’s Hearthstone Lounge.</li><li>Jeannette Bradley - a Sarasota-based artist known for her expressive work that explores emotion, identity, and storytelling through thoughtful composition and rich visual texture.</li><li>Lisa “Kai” Robinson - brings a vibrant, contemporary voice to the showcase, creating works that blend personal narrative with cultural influence and dynamic use of color.</li><li>Sabrina Thompson - a local artist whose work reflects a deep connection to community and creativity, using art as a means to inspire reflection, dialogue, and connection.</li></ul>These artists bring diverse styles, perspectives, and stories that reflect the richness of the local arts scene and align with VMA’s commitment to community engagement and cultural excellence.&nbsp;Event ScheduleSaturday, February 219:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Art Showcase Open to the Public (Free)12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | An Afternoon with The Arts: Feauturing Jerry LynnSunday, February 229:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Art Showcase Open to the Public (Free)

A variety of clubs and activities that promote creativity, physical fitness, and academic support beyond the classroom.

After-School Enrichment

Connecting boys with positive role models to inspire personal growth and academic success.

Mentorship Opportunities

Engaging students in local volunteer efforts to develop social responsibility and community connection.

Interactive workshops and activities designed to build leadership, integrity, and empathy in boys from grades K-5.

Character Development Programs

School Grade 2024-2025 “A” 2023-2024 “C” 2022-2023 “C” 2021-2022 “F” 2020-2021 Opt out due to Covid 2019-2020 No grade due to Covid 2018-2019 “B” 2017-2018 “A”School Academic Performance: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://www.fldoe.org/accountability/accountability-reporting/school-grades/">Download FDOE Accountability Report</a>Annual Budget: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GC9-t8VJSldl0bQZznHBFg2xSo0dix9G/view?usp=share_link">Download PDF</a>Annual Independent Fiscal Audit: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/108hLRyA5WT78NgAQHxzR3bJdIJNCNQ9g/view?usp=share_link">2025 Audit</a>Parent Right To Know Letter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xYs_bgxoGdUpjfKCqlaoUdB65wzWmArQ?usp=share_link">Download - (English, Spanish, or Haitian Creole)</a>Parent and Family Engagement Plan <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1W5r_K6hur1NSAoPxsmrskgG4y0Dv3Hhw?usp=share_link">Download PDF (English or Spanish)</a>Governing Board Members (LP): <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://vmacademy.org/our-team">View Team</a>Board Parent Involvement Representative &amp; Public Records Request Contact: Maria Mata <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:matam@vmacademy.org">(Email Maria Here)</a>

Bored kid at the overlook over Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park on October 25, 2025.

NO Heading

More InfoCode of Conduct <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sqfbdMGP0t-YWY7vQxXkmB8Q0aildUu7/view?usp=sharing">Download Code of Conduct in English</a> Descargar Código de Conducta en españolManatee County Student Code of Conduct: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://www.manateeschools.net/policy">View Policy</a>Bullying and Harassment Policy Visible Men Academy has opted to utilize the Manatee County School Board Bullying and Harassment policy where applicable, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://www.manateeschools.net/o/sdmc/page/safe-schools">view School Board Policy.</a>Jessica Lunsford Act / Visitors &amp; Contractors: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://www.manateeschools.net/o/sdmc/page/jessica-lunsford-act">View Here</a>FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows you to instantly relay information to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener" href="https://getfortifyfl.com/Tip.html">Visit Fortify Florida</a>Programs at Visible Men Academy<ul><li>S.T.R.E.A.M</li><li>Project Visible Mentoring Program</li></ul>Non-Discrimination Statement Visible Men Academy (VMA) does not discriminate in offering access to any educational programs or activities or in conducting its employment practices based on race, color, national origin, marital status, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or veteran status (each hereinafter referred to as a “protect

More Info

Mail a Check Please make checks payable to Visible Men Academy and mail to:Visible Men Academy 1007 21st Street E Bradenton, FL 34208Wire Transfer To make a gift by wire transfer, please contact our development team at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:development@vmacademy.org">development@vmacademy.org</a> or call <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="tel:941-313-2321">941-313-2321</a> for instructions.Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) You may also recommend a charitable gift to Visible Men Academy through your donor-advised fund. Please contact <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:development@vmacademy.org">development@vmacademy.org</a> or call <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="tel:941-313-2321">941-313-2321</a> for details.In-Kind Donations Not everyone is able to give financially — and that’s okay. We gladly accept in-kind donations of goods, services, supplies, experiences, meals, auction items, classroom resources, and other items that help support our students, teachers, and events. Every gift makes an impact and helps our SUNs continue to SHINE.For questions about in-kind donations, please contact <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:development@vmacademy.org">development@vmacademy.org</a>.Give Your Time One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Whether serving as a volunteer, mentor, event helper, classroom supporter, or community partner, your presence can make a lasting impact in the life of a young man at Visible Men Academy.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://form.jotform.com/222204901047949">Click Here to Apply to Volunteer</a>