We are a homeschool enrichment service in the Tampa Bay area offering activities on an educational farm located in Thonotosassa, Florida. We provide a balance of hands-on Montessori academic activities and free play, offering children a well-rounded experience immersed in nature.
Melanie Smith created Freedom Montessori Academy in 2015 with a dream of the best possible way of educating children. As a former public school principal, Melanie observed what the families, the teachers, and the children wanted to achieve.
It seemed like everyone wanted the same thing:
A stress-free, happy, healthy environment.
Independent learners who take responsibility for their education through meaningful hands-on learning experiences.
Respectful learners who learn social skills and enjoy friendships.
Children who enjoy eating healthy.
Most importantly, we all wanted each child to be treated as an individual. An Individualized education allows each child to progress at their own pace and to pursue their interests, developing a love of learning.
Our Mission
Freedom Montessori Academy’s mission is to provide homeschool enrichment activities for elementary-aged children that balance academics with plenty of outdoor experiences in nature, allowing each child to reach their full potential.
As a registered Eco-School with the National Wildlife Federation, our goal is for children to learn regenerative agriculture principles through hands-on Montessori learning activities. Through Montessori activities, learners are provided with experiences to grow healthy foods and plants.
Eating healthy is essential to feeling good, which in turn increases academic progress.
Our families enjoy the Montessori Method as it is a great balance that carries over into life.
Learners work on independent skills, progress through the curriculum at their own pace, work in multi-age groupings, and enjoy cooperative learning experiences.
Freedom Montessori Academy’s goal is to have parent involvement supporting the program's goals and their child’s progress. This program has been successful because parents work with us as a team.
After working in the private and public school systems since 2000, educator Melanie Smith was inspired to start Freedom Montessori Academy in her home in 2015. Melanie combined her educational leadership experience as an elementary school principal, her experience as a Montessori Guide, and her love of nature to create Freedom Montessori Academy. Melanie is passionate about providing a developmentally appropriate educational experience and believes a child’s self-esteem, spirit, and happiness are of utmost importance while in an educational setting. When the child is educated as an individual, he or she will progress in all areas to their fullest potential. Melanie encourages children to think outside of the box, take risks, and learn from their mistakes.
Early Childhood Education Degree from the University of South Florida
State of Florida Department of Education Certified Educator in Prekindergarten/Primary Education (Age 3 - Grade 3), ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages), ESE (Exceptional Student Education), grades K-12
American Montessori Society Elementary I Montessori Credential
Level One Orff Schilwerk Certification (music instruction)
Department of Children and Families Staff Credential for Child Care Facilities
DCF Child Care Centers VPK (Voluntary Pre-k) Endorsed Childcare Center Directors Credential
Florida Department of Education VPK Instructor training
FDLE Level 2 background check required for certified teachers and to work at public and private schools