About | Alive Academy

Alive Academy exists to develop the next generation of leaders who are rooted in their faith in Jesus, led by the Holy Spirit, and equipped to boldly live out their faith in every sphere of life.

We are committed to educating students who embrace their identity in Christ, grow in wisdom and compassion, and actively impact the world around them with courage, excellence, and unwavering faith.

CORE VALUES

Faith in Action: Grounded in worship, prayer, and the Word of God, everything we do is centered on Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Honor and Integrity: We cultivate a culture where respect, honesty, and accountability reflect the character of Jesus.
Adventure and Creativity: We inspire students to explore, imagine, and embrace the wonder of God’s creation with boldness and curiosity.
Leadership Development: We intentionally shape students to be servant leaders who influence their communities for the Kingdom of God.
Excellence in Academics: We provide rigorous, Christ-centered education that equips students to excel in every area of life.
Partnership with Families: We work hand-in-hand with parents to invest in and raise children who love Jesus.
Serving Others: Compassion and service are at the heart of our community as we follow Jesus’ example of helping those in need.

OVERSIGHT

PASTORS MICHAEL & MEGAN BRUESEKE

Pastors Michael and Megan Brueseke serve as the Senior Pastors of Alive Church, which has locations in Southeast Virginia, St. Louis, Missouri, and Manila, Philippines.

The Bruesekes have five children: Boden, Claire, Titus, Soren, and Griffin. With a conviction that discipleship of the next generation cannot be delegated and a heart for partnering with families, Pastors Michael and Megan are leading the launch of Alive Academy.

HEAD OF SCHOOL

JENNIFER PRESSON

With more than three decades of experience in education, Jennifer Presson brings a deep passion for learning, leadership, and faith as she serves as the Head of School for Alive Academy.

Jennifer has served in nearly every aspect of the educational field—as a dedicated teacher, curriculum developer, teacher trainer, and compassionate school leader, including roles as both assistant principal and principal. Since 2017, she has been a part of Alive Church, serving in Alive Kids at the Downtown Suffolk campus, where she helps cultivate seeds of faith and purpose in the next generation.

With a heart for care and compassion, she strives to support children and families, valuing authentic relationships and shared growth. Above all, she is driven by a desire to see children thrive in faith, in character, and in life.

Accreditation

Alive Academy is seeking accreditation through the Virginia Council for Private Education and is a member of the Association of Christian Teachers and Schools.

Religiously Exempt Preschool

Alive Academy is filing its Statement of Intent to be a religiously exempt preschool under Virginia Code Ann. § 22.1-254.

Racial Non-Discrimination Policy

Alive Academy welcomes students of all races and ethnic backgrounds and complies with all state and federal laws regarding racial non-discrimination in admissions, enrollment, and financial aid.

2025-26 ENROLLMENT APPLICATIONPRE-K—SECOND GRADE

Access the Alive Academy 2025—2026 school calendar here.

FUTURE PLANS

Alive Academy plans to begin with preschool through second grade, with plans to grow by adding one grade level per year until we serve Pre-K through 12th grade. We envision a thriving school community of up to 1,000 students, fully dedicated to raising the next generation to live fully alive in Christ.

Frequently Asked Questions

In August 2025, Alive Academy will open with classes for PK-3, PK-4, Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade. We plan to expand each year as the Academy grows, with the vision of becoming a Pre-K through 12th-grade school, discipling over 1,000 students yearly.

PK-3: Must be three years old by September 30 and fully toilet-trained.
PK-4: Must be four years old by September 30.
Kindergarten: Must be five years old by September 30.

We are considering a combined second/third-grade class to support families with students in multiple grade levels. We aim to be responsive to families' needs while maintaining an excellent educational environment.

For the first year, classes will be held in existing classrooms at Alive Church. After completing the first phase of the Western Branch Transformation, classrooms will be renovated and redesigned to serve the needs of both Alive Academy and Alive Kids.

Regular School Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Aftercare: 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Drop-off: Begins at 7:45 a.m.

Alive Academy will implement a curriculum that integrates a biblical worldview in all subjects, shaping students in the way of Jesus. We are reviewing and selecting the best curricular options to ensure a creative and engaging learning environment.

We have intentionally set tuition at an affordable rate. Limited scholarships will be available in the inaugural year. Applications for tuition assistance will be available on or after April 15th.

Tuition can be paid in full or through a payment plan. Payments will be automatically drafted monthly or quarterly.

Yes. Sibling discounts are as follows:

10% off for the second child
20% off for the third child

Initial Review of Application
Church Reference Check
Family and Student Interview
Academic Assessment
Administrative Review
Admission Decision Notification
Enrollment and Orientation

Yes, immunization records must be submitted as part of the enrollment process. Religious and medical exemptions will follow state guidelines.

We will be hiring preschool teachers, elementary teachers, and classroom support staff for the fall of 2025. The application process opens on March 15th, and a link to apply will be available on our website. Alive Academy employees must be active and engaged members of Alive Church.

No, but Alive Academy will have a dress code.

PK-3 students must be fully toilet-trained before starting school. Teachers and staff will support restroom independence but will not provide diapering services.

Alive Academy is pursuing accreditation through the Association of Christian Teachers and Schools (ACTS), an accrediting body recognized by the Virginia Council for Private Education. Accreditation ensures high, uniform standards and represents a recognized standard of excellence within the educational community.

Although Alive Academy will have its own academic calendar, it will make efforts to align significant holiday breaks and key dates with local school districts when possible.

Alive Academy is a ministry of Alive Church, and its curriculum reflects a Christian, biblical worldview. Families must be active and engaged members of Alive Church or another local church.

No. Students must bring their lunch and snacks each day.

We aim to maintain small class sizes to ensure individualized attention and a high-quality learning environment. Specific ratios will depend on enrollment.

At this time, Alive Academy is not equipped to provide the specialized support required for students with IEPs or other special accommodations.