Family

Week of 2/9/2026

 

Principal's Message

Freedom Families,

As we move into the second week of February, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students and school community. This time of year is a critical stretch for learning, and every day in class truly matters.

I’d like to remind families that we have a four-day weekend coming up at the end of this week. While this extended break is a great opportunity for rest and time together, it also makes attendance and punctuality during the week especially important. Being present and arriving on time ensures students do not miss essential instruction, assessments, or learning experiences that are difficult to replicate.

We appreciate your help in reinforcing with students the importance of showing up every day and getting to class on time. Strong attendance habits are closely tied to academic success, and your support makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you for all you do to help our students stay engaged, focused, and prepared. We wish you and your family a safe and restful long weekend ahead.

                                               Kevin Stephenson, Principal 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

 

Derrick McCoy

Freedom High School CTE Teacher

A proud Freedom alumnus, Coach McCoy graduated in 2006 after establishing himself as one of the school’s top wrestlers, earning a spot at the State Championship tournament. While a knee injury prematurely ended his competitive wrestling career, it never diminished his passion for the sport or his commitment to impacting the lives of young people. After graduating from the USF, Coach McCoy began his career at an advertising agency. However, Freedom continued to call him home. In 2011, he returned to campus to join the wrestling staff—a decision that would shape the next chapter of his life and the future of Freedom Wrestling. By 2012, he stepped into the role of Head Wrestling Coach, beginning a tenure that now spans 14 years of dedicated service to Patriot student-athletes.  Under Coach McCoy’s leadership, Freedom Wrestling has achieved sustained success. He has coached multiple athletes to State Championship appearances and has helped open doors for numerous wrestlers to compete at the collegiate level—opportunities that have truly changed lives. More importantly, Coach McCoy is known for his unwavering care for his athletes. He pushes them to be their best, not only on the mat, but as students, leaders, and young adults prepared for life after high school. Beyond wrestling, Coach McCoy’s impact is felt throughout the campus. He has expanded Freedom’s TV Production and Marketing programs, giving students authentic, real-world learning experiences. Through innovative use of technology and hands-on instruction, his marketing classes actively support school athletics, clubs, and organizations—elevating programs while equipping students with practical skills.

Coach McCoy’s journey—from Patriot wrestler, to alumnus, to teacher and coach—embodies what it means to give back to the school that helped shape you. Freedom High School is better because of his passion, leadership, and tireless commitment to our students.

 
 

STUDENT LIFE

 
 
 

Freedom Celebrates Cultures from around the World

Freedom proudly celebrated cultures from around the world at our 10th Annual Multicultural Festival, January 30th.  Students, parents, faculty and staff showcased 

 

 

 

FHS places 1st in Battle of FLBA Chapters District 8 FBLA Awards

Freedom was proudly represented at the District 8 FBLA Awards on January 30. Sai Rithvik Vemuri was named the incoming District President for the 2026–2027 school year, marking another significant leadership achievement for Freedom. 

In addition, students delivered an outstanding competitive showing, earning 33 first‑place finishes, 14 second‑place, 14 third‑place, 9 fourth‑place, 3 fifth‑place, and 5 sixth‑place awards, showcasing the depth of talent and dedication across the chapter.

 
 

HCPS Student Forum

FHS Senior Class President Mariam Alaghawani and Student Government President Sophia Acosta represented Freedom High School at this year's High School Student Forum on February 3rd.  This event is an opportunity for students to influence the district's work by sharing their insights and perspectives with school board members and district staff members.  

 
 

Freedom FFA at the Florida State Food Science Competition

On Saturday, January 31st four Freedom FFA students, Jayce Cifaldi, Francisco Matos-Gomez, Gabriel Bernales and Kira Oneal advanced to the top 10 teams to compete in the FFA State Science Competition at University of Florida.  Freedom placed 7th in the state, way to go Patriots! 

Students in Action in the Classroom

Data collection is underway for AP Research students. These students are working hard and are in the midst of a year-long research project, culminating in a 4,000 plus word academic paper and a 20 minute presentation.  

Quarter 3 Conference Night

Did you miss out Accelerated Program opportunities presentation? Click below for a copy!

Parents gathered in the Media Center on conference night as Accelerated Programs Lead Teacher Lisa Reale and Dual Enrollment Coordinator/Media Specialist Jen Simard shared information on the many academic opportunities available to current and future Freedom students.

Click here for Accelerated Presentation
 

Did You Know?

Freedom National Honor Society students offer babysitting while you meet with your students' teachers or attend one of our presentations during conference night?

Freedom Food and Supply Pantry was also open for families during conference night.

Quarter 4 Conference night will be on April 16th from 4-6:30.

 

Quarter 3 parent-teacher conference night was held on February 5th from 4pm to 6:30pm.  PTSA (pictured left) provided our faculty and staff with a boxed meal, beverages and dessert.  

 
 

Student Leaders Organize Campus Blood Drive

Students leading the way - one donation at a time.  

 
 

FHS Chorus at All County Music Festival

Congratulations to our chorus students who represented Freedom in the Hillsborough All County Chorus this weekend!  

 
 
 
 

Happy National School Counseling Week! 

Freedom is grateful to our school counseling team: Mr. Ramos, Ms. Tapia, Ms. Foley, Ms. Branham and Ms. Nickels.  Our team is dedicated to helping students navigate academics, mental wellness, and post-secondary planning with care, compassion and all the moments that matter the most.

 
 
 

ATHLETICS

 

Congrats to Girls Basketball on their 62-30 win over Auburndale HS in the District Semi-Finals!  They take on Lake Wales for the District Championship this Friday, 2/6 at Lake Wales! Good Luck Girls!

Good luck to Boys Soccer, they will be playing for the regional title on Friday February 6th in Cape Coral against Mariner High School.  Good luck Patriots!  

 

Huge congratulations to Joya Hodge for placing 1st at the Hillsborough County Girls Wrestling Championships! Outstanding performance!

 
 
 
 
 
 

Every Day Counts, Every Mind Matters

Academic Learning Focus

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. 

 

 

 
 
  • FL State Fair Family Day- Friday, February 13, 2026, is Family Day at the Florida State Fair and a non-student day. The Florida State Fair Authority has communicated the following policy: Persons 17 years of age or younger will receive free admission to the Florida State Fair on February 13, 2026, until 5:00 p.m. with an admission paying parent or guardian, 21 years of age or older with a valid ID 
  • 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.  
 
 
 
 

Senior Class News

Click newsletter below for important information for seniors and senior parents!

Senior Class of 2026 Weekly Newsletter

Senior Class Sponsor:  William Tillman

Follow Senior Class of 2026 

Instagram
 
 
 
  • Black History Month celebration 2/12
  • FL State Fair Family Day/Non-Student Day 2/13
  • President's Day/Non-Student Day 2/16
  • Senior rank freeze is Feb 20.  All online courses must have a final grade posted on or before Jan 9.  Please have all credits earned outside of FHS and HVS to your counselor by Feb 6 to be included in rank.  Courses will still count toward GPA and credit after rank freeze.
  • Freedom Fest - 2/26
  • Strawberry Festival/Non-Student Day 3/2
 
 
 

ACT-SO

 
 

100 Years of Black History Commemorations

Click Here For The 2026 Black History Month Resource Guide
 
  • Focus Portal: View students class schedule, attendance, report card, course history, graduation status, test history results Focus Portal
  • 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
  • Tutoring: available after school. Contact Mrs. Grimm 
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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
  • Contact Ms. Enzor to be added to our Patriot Care Connection Canvas Page where every connection is rooted in respect, dignity and care.  
 
 

Dontate to our Food & Supply Pantry

Freedom High School welcomes donations for our food and supply pantry, with a special need for weekday pickup support.

 
 
 

Click below 

Donate items
and/or 

Donate time
 
 

Freedom School Counselors

 

Student Last Name

A-Cri

Click here to email Mrs. Nickels

Student Last Name

Hes-Meq

Click here to email Mrs. Tapia

Student Last Name

Cro-Her

Click here to email Mrs. Foley

Student Last Name

Mer-Rol

Click here to email Mrs. Branham

Student Last Name

Rom-Z

Click here to email Mr. Ramos

 
 
 
 
 

Family Engagement

 
 

Support our Patriots - Join PTSA

PTSA membership strengthens Freedom High School by supporting students, enhancing programs, and uniting our school community.  Join today and show your Patriot pride. 

Click here to JOIN PTSA
 

Explore the links below! 

Freedom Staff Directory
Volunteer On Campus/Chaperone Field Trips
Freedom Athletics
Freedom Athletic Booster Club
Freedom Chorus
Freedom Business Academy
Freedom PTSA
NJROTC
Freedom Veterinary Science Program
My Payments Plus
FacebookInstagramWeb SiteFacebook
 
 

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