Our Story

How It All Started

The first Vine Christian Academy (VCA) began in Brazil about 20 years ago, born out of a deep desire to raise up the next generation of leaders with both academic excellence and Christlike character. This vision was carried forward by our lead pastors, Raph and Juliana, who came to the United States as missionaries to plant Vine Church SWFL. They brought with them a strong passion for investing in children, believing in their potential to shape the future through godly leadership and moral integrity.

Our Story Continues

After nearly a decade of planting and growing the church in Southwest Florida, Pastor Raph and Pastor Juliana, alongside our dedicated directors, Adriana Almeida and Gabriela Tombs, realized their vision of opening a school that integrates faith and learning. In 2022, Vine Christian Academy was established to serve the local community by offering children a transformative education rooted in biblical principles and academic excellence.

Since then, VCA has touched the lives of countless children, equipping them not only with the knowledge to succeed academically but also with the moral and spiritual foundation to thrive as leaders in their communities. Every child who walks through our doors is nurtured in a Christ-centered environment, where their hearts and minds are shaped for a future of purpose and influence.

Pastor Raph Fernandes Pastor Julianna Fernandes

Vine Christian Academy is also part of VINE.SA (Vine Schools Association), a global network of schools united by a shared commitment to The Principle Approach Education&reg. AEVIDE spans multiple countries, including England, Portugal, Brazil, and Pakistan, impacting thousands of children worldwide with an approach that integrates faith, character, and academic excellence.

 

Aevide Vine Schools Association

 

At VCA, we believe education is more than knowledge—it’s about instilling values that will guide students for life. We are proud to continue building this legacy, partnering with families to raise a generation of Christlike leaders who will positively influence their communities, their nations, and the world.

What We Offer

Daycare

We care for children starting from 2 weeks old, providing a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environment.

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Preschool

Our preschool programs offer a strong foundation for early learning, integrating faith and academics to prepare children for future success.

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Elementary School

We offer an individualized curriculum that integrates Christian principles
into every subject, promoting both academic achievement and spiritual growth.

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As a first-time mom returning to work I had so many worries about placing my son in daycare, it did not take long for me to perceive that my son was in excellent care. This establishment proved to me that they are dedicated to the service of God through the love & care they give my son every day. 9 months in I can confidently say that my son loves VCA & as a parent I'm grateful for the detailed information and collaboration VCA has towards my son's development and milestones!

~Lorena Casta

We are deeply grateful to have been part of the Vine Christian Academy family from the beginning. Watching the school grow and flourish has been a blessing, and we feel privileged to have played a role in its journey. The support and guidance our children have received from the dedicated teachers and staff have been invaluable, especially during one of the hardest seasons in our lives, with our daughter’s diagnosis. How they have covered us with so much love, care, and most importantly prayers. We are thankful for the strong foundation in faith and academics that the school has provided. We give thanks to God for guiding and blessing Vine Christian Academy, and we look forward with excitement to the bright future ahead.

~ Kesley and Kathleen Dos Santos

What we appreciate most is that VCA focuses on so much more than academics. Our children are learning, growing in their faith, and developing strong values in a safe, nurturing environment. The teachers genuinely care about each child and invest in their growth both inside and outside the classroom. As parents, we are thankful for the strong communication, the Christ-centered foundation, and the sense of community that VCA provides. It truly feels like an extension of our family.

~ David & Carol Rodriguez
VCA Parents Since 2022