At Freedom Prep, partnership is at the heart of everything we do. We grow stronger when we listen, learn, and lead alongside our families and students. This month, those partnerships came to life during the Freedom Forum, a series of conversations led by our Executive Director of Tennessee, Johnecia Howard. These sessions invited our families, students, and alumni to come together, to share what they love about FPA, and speak openly about how we can continue to grow stronger together.
As Mrs. Howard shared, “Our parents and students are not just participants in our schools; they are co-authors of our story. When we intentionally create spaces for them to share their experiences, ideas, and concerns, we honor their voices as essential to our collective growth.” That spirit was alive in every session, whether it was a parent reflecting on community, a student sharing classroom experiences, or an alumnus describing how Freedom Prep continues to shape their life.
Students like Tatiana, a 7th grader at Flagship, said it best: “When you have culturally appropriate events to help you get to know teachers and friends, it makes our schools better.” Alumni Paul Bradford (Class of 2024) added, “Freedom Prep did prepare me for the soft skills you need… It’s helped me manage over 17 credits my first semester at Wash U and extracurricular activities.” These heartfelt reflections remind us that FPA is more than a school, it’s a family that grows and learns together.
Across our Tennessee campuses, the Freedom Forum offered a welcoming space to listen, reflect, and dream about what’s next for our organization. As Mrs. Howard put it, “The best solutions, and the most meaningful progress, come when we listen to the people we serve every day.” Great school cultures start with listening. Every leader shared how small moments, celebrating wins, spotting patterns, and responding with care, can transform not just a team, but an entire community.
As we look ahead, the Freedom Forum is just the beginning. Each story shared and idea voiced helps us build a stronger, more connected school community: one that reflects the values of excellence, responsibility, and respect that define Freedom Prep. We are grateful to every FPA family, student, and alum who joined the conversation. Together, we’re not only writing the next chapter of Freedom Prep’s story – we’re shaping its future, side by side.
