Freedom Families, As we move into the final week of February, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students and school community. This time of year often brings a busy pace in classrooms, and our students are working hard to finish the month strong.
I’d also like to remind families that we have a three‑day weekend coming up. School will be closed on Monday, March 2, in observance of Strawberry Festival Day. Classes will resume on Tuesday, March 3. We encourage students to use this extended weekend to rest, recharge, and stay on top of any upcoming assignments.
As always, please continue to check school communications for updates and reminders as we head into March. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our school office or your child’s teachers. Thank you for your continued support of Freedom High School. Together, we can ensure a strong finish to the quarter and continued success for our students. |
Kevin Stephenson, Principal |
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Freedom Celebrates Remarkable Academic Achievement |
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This week we are celebrating two academic achievements for Freedom High School:
Last week, College Board announced that Freedom was one of sixteen high schools in Hillsborough County name to their Advance Placement School Honor Roll. Read more by clicking this link. https://www.hillsboroughschools.org/article/2689840
According to the most recent FLDOE data, our district achieved a 70.9% College and Career Acceleration (CCA) rate. This is a measure of the number of students who earned an industry certification, passing AP or AICE score, or passed a Dual Enrollment course. Freedom High School achieved 80.2% CCA (4 point growth)!
For comparison, here are our neighboring schools Acceleration and Graduation Rates Freedom High School: Grad - 93.1 Acceleration - 80.2 Wharton High School: Grad - 86.9 Acceleration - 64.5
Gaither High School: Grad - 93.9 Acceleration - 71.5 Chamberlain High School: Grad - 81.5 Acceleration - 56.6 King High School: Grad - 90.9 Acceleration - 74.7 Steinbrenner High School: Grad - 97.2 Acceleration - 80.5
ALL HC: Grad - 90.9 Acceleration - 70.9 We are so proud of our students for their achievements. This would not be possible without the hard work, dedication and support from the faculty and staff at Freedom. |
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Each month teachers submit nominations to showcase the outstanding work their coworkers are doing to positively contribute to our school. PTSA has sponsored our Patriot of the Month Faculty Recognition by providing a breakfast or lunch to the winner and their colleagues.
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Madame McElwee, World Languages
Truly a gift to FHS! She goes above and beyond to create a welcoming, safe haven in her classroom—refreshing the space with new paint, surrounding her students with depictions of life in France, & proudly showcasing their work so they valued. Her dedication extends far beyond the classroom walls. By organizing a field trip to Epcot, she provided her students with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a taste of Paris and bring their learning to life. Madame McElwee is the definition of a team player, consistently putting the needs of her colleagues before her own. Her passion, generosity, & commitment make a lasting impact on our school.
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| Ms. Larcomb, Reading:
An incredible addition to Freedom this year! As a dedicated reading teacher, she passionately helps her students rediscover a love for reading while building the confidence they need to meet their graduation benchmarks. She works tirelessly to support each student’s individual academic needs, ensuring they feel capable, encouraged, and empowered every step of the way. Beyond her instructional expertise, Ms. Larcomb is truly a ray of sunshine on our campus. Her warm smile and positive energy brighten the work environment & make her classroom a welcoming space where students feel safe to grow. We are so lucky to have her here at Freedom!
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| Ms. Newcomb, CTE
Mrs. Newcomb is doing a great job raising her FFA and vet kids up to be responsible, driven adults (which is no simple task). She is a helpful teammate to faculty, too. She shares work or supplies when other teachers ask for help or guidance, and she doesn't expect any favors back, not to mention her amazing student- led Doggy Daycare service! |
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| Ms. Colello, Science
Our new Env. Science teacher, who has already made a tremendous impact! She brings energy & enthusiasm to her classroom, engaging students through hands-on learning, even taking students on exciting field trips.. She is also our Girls Tennis Coach, showing her dedication to students academically and athletically. |
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| Ms. Barker, Main Office
A great new addition to the main office. Ms. Barker is so kind, funny, & always willing to help. Not only is she the friendly face of the main office, she is also SO smart, creating new systems and procedures to ensure that our office runs smoothly and efficiently. We are so happy to have snagged her! |
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| Ms. Santamaria, Literacy Coach
Always goes above and beyond to support the team by analyzing data trends, creating success incentive plans, covering classes, and collaborating with teachers to design lessons. She does all of this while staying positive and keeping a smile on her face. Her presence truly brightens the days of those around her. |
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| Mr. Van Der Luit, CTE
An exceptional educator & invaluable CTE member. He builds strong relationships w/ his students, creating an environment where they feel seen & supported. His genuine care makes him a teacher whom students look forward to seeing each day. He is often one of the key reasons his students are excited to come to school. |
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| Ms. Foley, Guidance
During programming, she did a wonderful job helping students envision their schedules. She provided tons of info, including graduation requirements & important classes. She also gave specialized support to students who were unsure of which classes to take. She makes students feel great & confident about their schedules! |
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| Coach Antonio, PE
He is the glue that holds PE together. He is kind, hard working & always brightens up a room! His dedication to PE has been amazing. The students look forward to his soccer / team sports tourneys. He is also a great soccer coach who has set the tone for what a winning program looks like. His players, students & coworkers are lucky to have him! |
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Mr. Fuhrmeister, Tech Specialist
He always comes running when any staff member calls. Whether it's kiosks not working, printers not connecting, or Newline Board catastrophes, he solves our technology issues and gets us back to work with haste! His intelligence is truly astounding. We would be lost without him & we appreciate all he does for us! |
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| Master Sergeant Hernandez, NJROTC
MSgt Hernandez has worked hard to make our NJROTC program where it is today. Her commitment is unmatched each day. Her dedication and care for her students is unwavering, and it truly translates to their success in her classroom and at competitions. Her countless hours do not go unnoticed. |
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| Ms. Trent, ESE
Mrs. Trent always goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues. She gives her students hands-on, real-world learning experiences that will help them be successful in life. Her FHS Family appreciates her positive spirit, amazing wardrobe, school spirit, & delicious iced coffees! She makes Freedom a better place! |
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Our FFA students visited Ag Ventures at the Florida State Fair, where they helped educate the public about the importance of Florida agriculture. They guided young visitors through hands-on activities, including making fresh orange juice, planting radish seeds, and learning which everyday products come from cattle. Students also explained the nutrients needed for different crops to grow, demonstrated how to make butter, and taught children about the vital role of pollinators. In addition, they shared information about Florida strawberries and how the industry contributes to our state’s economy. We are proud of our students for representing our program and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders!
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Bravo Choir earned SUPERIOR rating! |
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At the Solo & Ensemble concert this past weekend, Freedom Bravo choir received a SUPERIOR rating for their performance at the event. Great job students and Ms. Faircloth! |
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FHS Students Display Their Art at Dali Museum |
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Please congratulate these students for being selected into The Dali Museum Student Surrealist Art Exhibit. This year’s theme was “The Surreal Self: Personal Symbols, Stories and Portraits”. This prestigious student art show is very difficult to get in and is highly sought after. Freedom High School will be represented well again this year with 5 students out of a max of 6 submissions making it into the show, with 3 of them being Freshmen. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to have their artwork hanging in a museum alongside works of Salvador Dali.
If you are in the St. Pete area and have the opportunity to check out the Dali, please do so. The exhibit runs from March 14th to April 26th, with a Reception for the artists and families on March 24th 6:30-8:30. |
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| Micheal Padilla-Taylor (12th) |
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AICE Environmental Management |
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AICE Environmental Managements students took learning beyond the classroom and into the field at Crystal Springs. Students conducted river biodiversity testing and environmental sampling, collecting real data on water quality and aquatic life. Experiences like this give them hands-on insight into ecosystem health, human impact, and the importance of conservation. |
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"Hold on to the Moments That Made Us" |
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Buy now before the prices go up on March 13th!! |
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| Congratulations to Joya Hodge and Kymari Riley for placing at Regionals and punching their tickets to the STATE Championship wrestling match next week!! GO PATS!!! |
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🏅
Congrats to our girls Wrestling Team-- all 5 wrestlers will advance to Regionals this Friday at Osceola HS in Kissimmee. Jamilla Baghdadi and Kymari Riley are both District Champions, Alexis Gaines and Joya Hodge are both District Runner Ups, and Maritza Martinez placed 4th! Our boys will complete in the District Tournament this Saturday at Jesuit, good luck boys! 🌸 Spring Sports Update Our spring sports teams are in full swing, and our student‑athletes are giving us plenty to cheer about! Come out and show your support at the upcoming home events. ⚾ Baseball
The team is off to a strong start with a 3–1 record. Their next home game is February 24. 🥎 Softball
Softball begins the season 1–0 and will play their next home game on February 26. 🏈 Flag Football
Flag football is currently 0–1 and will host their home opener on February 26. 🎾 Tennis
Girls tennis is holding steady with a 3–2 record, while boys tennis has started their season 1–1. 🏃 Track & Field
Both girls and boys track and field are underway. Come out and watch our athletes shine on the track! |
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| Every Day Counts, Every Mind Matters |
Challenges are opportunities to grow, and effort is just as important as outcomes.
Teachers are reinforcing expectations and encouraging active participation. Please remind your student to come prepared and ready to contribute. Consistent attendance is key to success. If your child will be absent, notify the school promptly so we can support them in staying on track. Counselors and teachers are available for academic or social-emotional needs. Encourage your student to reach out if they need help.
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Student sign out policy - any person signing out a student must present identification and be listed on student pick up record.
- We kindly ask visitors in our school office areas to refrain from using electronic devices, as they can cause disruptions, create excessive noise, and may result in personal conversations being overheard. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a calm and professional office environment.
- Mutual respect, professionalism, and common courtesy are essential qualities that all need to demonstrate in promoting an educational environment free from disruptions, harassment, bullying, and aggressive actions. We need all adults in our community to set good examples for our children and to protect the safety of everyone on campus. Open and respectful communications with parents and the safety of our children are our top priorities.
- Campus wide roof replacement is underway and on track. Estimated completion date is late 2027.
- Dress Code—please follow the dress code outlined by the district
- Student Code of Conduct
- Attendance—Each Day Matters!
- New Tardy Policy for 2nd semester
- Seniors – be sure you are checking Canvas for important information regarding Senior activities and graduation announcements.
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Black History Celebration rescheduled to 2/25
- Freedom Fest - 2/26
- Strawberry Festival/Non-Student Day 3/2
- Senior Grad Bash Final Payment Due 3/13
- Spring Break 3/16-3/20
- Non-Student Day 3/23
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100 Years of Black History Commemorations |
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Focus Portal: View students class schedule, attendance, report card, course history, graduation status, test history results Focus Portal
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Canvas: View students current course grade, assignment directions, grades and comments, emailing a student's teachers, viewing a student’s schedule, stay connected with clubs & school announcements Canvas
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Tutoring: available after school. Contact Mrs. Grimm
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Student Services: School Counselors, School Social Worker, psychological services, academic guidance and tutoring, mental health and emotional support, attendance and family resources, health needs, college & career planning, college fairs, academic resources, dual enrollment, scholarships Freedom Student Services
- Grief and Loss Peer Support Group (click here for flyer) email Mrs. Foley for support.
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Support for Families: If your family has been displaced or is experiencing housing challenges, support is available. Please contact our School Social Worker, Mrs. Enzor for confidential assistance, food, resources and referrals. We are here to help support our school community. Contact Ms. Enzor for assistance.
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Our school Food & Resource Pantry is here to support students and families. Whether you need food, hygiene items, or help connecting to resources, you’re not alone. Everyone needs support sometimes. Reach out to Ms. Enzor, School Social Worker for help.
- Struggling with a child who is chronically exhibiting truant, runaway, or unruly behavior? Help is available: Case Staffing/Hillsborough County, FL
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Contact Ms. Enzor to be added to our Patriot Care Connection Canvas Page where every connection is rooted in respect, dignity and care.
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Dontate to our Food & Supply Pantry |
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Freedom High School welcomes donations for our food and supply pantry, with a special need for weekday pickup support. |
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Food & Resource Pantry Hours |
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Our Food & Resource Pantry will be open on the following dates and times |
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Friday, February 20, 2026
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM - Wednesday, February 25, 2026
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM - Tuesday, March 3, 2026
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM - Wednesday, March 11, 2026
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
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We look forward to serving you during these times. Please reach out if you have any questions or need a different time. |
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Freedom School Counselors |
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Support our Patriots - Join PTSA |
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PTSA membership strengthens Freedom High School by supporting students, enhancing programs, and uniting our school community. Join today and show your Patriot pride. |
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Leave your student’s legacy with an inscribed Brick, permanently set at the front of the school |
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Celebrate your Senior with a Yard Sign (with or without the post-grad school logo) |
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Principal: Kevin Stephenson
Assistant Principal of Curriculum: Matthew Smith
Assistant Principal of Administration: Jenna Lamour Assistant Principal of Student Affairs
(Last Names A-L): Eva Chen
Assistant Principal of Student Affairs (Last names M-Z): Danielle Smith 17410 Commerce Park Blvd. Tampa, FL 33647 813-558-1185 – Office Hours: 7:30-4:15 |
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