A Friendly School having proud of their Students
Everyday care for your Children's
Leslie Buggs – Founder/Director
Leslie Buggs, a proud native of Nashville, Tennessee, has built her career on a passion for early childhood education. Armed with a Master’s Degree in Biology and another in Human Development and Early Childhood Disorders, Leslie’s educational background has shaped her unwavering dedication to nurturing young minds.
With 16 years of experience in childcare, Leslie’s journey led her to establish Future Leaders of Excellence Academy in December 2017. This vision turned reality stands as a reflection of her commitment to providing children with the highest quality education and care.
Leslie’s passion for inclusivity is at the heart of FLOE Academy, where she champions the integration of children of all abilities. She believes every child deserves an environment that supports their growth, learning, and development, setting the stage for a lifetime of success.
Beyond her professional achievements, Leslie is an avid shoe enthusiast, enjoys traveling to new destinations, and delights in exploring diverse culinary experiences. She’s also a proud aunt to two wonderful nieces, cherishing her close-knit family.
Meet Erica Mason, Assistant Director/Safari Friends Teacher
With eight years in early childhood education, Erica has spent five rewarding years at FLOE Academy. Starting in the infant/toddler room, she now serves as Assistant Director, blending her expertise with a Bachelor’s in Social Work.
A devoted mother, Erica enjoys family adventures in travel and camping. She values the collaborative spirit at FLOE Academy, praising the leadership of Ms. Leslie for her support and guidance.
Erica’s passion for early childhood development, combined with her compassion and professionalism, makes her a true asset to FLOE Academy, where she continues to inspire and shape young minds.
Bobbie Waters – Assistant Director
With over 20 years of experience in childcare, Bobbie has been a key member of FLOE Academy since its founding in 2017. Starting as a teacher, she now serves as Assistant Director, bringing a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role.
Bobbie’s commitment to her profession is reflected in her pursuit of a Child Development Associate credential, highlighting her focus on growth and excellence in the field.
Outside of work, Bobbie enjoys spending time with her four children and four grandchildren, savoring life’s simple pleasures like good food and restful sleep. Her passion for childcare and dedication to young minds continue to inspire those around her at FLOE Academy.
Rachael Moore – Busy Bees Teacher
Rachael Moore, a resident of Springfield, TN, is a dedicated professional with a passion for childcare. For the past eight years, she has immersed herself in the field, nurturing young minds and fostering their development.
Driven by her love for teaching, Rachael aspires to become a kindergarten teacher, where she can continue to make a positive impact on children’s lives. Her enthusiasm for guiding youngsters and imparting knowledge reflects her genuine dedication to education.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Rachael finds joy in outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. She has a liking for shopping, often frequenting stores like Walmart, Bath and Body Works, Dollar Tree, Dollar General, Target, and Amazon.
Rachael Moore’s journey is defined by her unwavering commitment to shaping futures and creating a nurturing environment for children to thrive.
Nena Franklin – Playful Pals
Meet Nena Franklin, who has had the pleasure of working at Future Leaders of Excellence Academy for the past year, where her greatest passion is caring for infants and nurturing their development. Her love for this work drives her toward furthering her education, as she plans to pursue a teaching degree in English and early childhood education.
In her free time, Nena enjoys immersing herself in music. She loves playing the trumpet and dancing, both of which bring her immense joy. Additionally, she finds inspiration in writing poetry while listening to Christian R&B music, and she enjoys learning new languages as a creative hobby.
Lauren Treftz – Future Heroes/Future Stars Teacher
Meet Lauren Treftz, a proud five year veteran of FLOE Academy, where her passion for childcare continues to thrive. Before joining FLOE, she gained valuable experience teaching middle school art and music, along with a year of experience in childcare.
An Army veteran, Lauren served as a public relations specialist, specializing in photojournalism and mass communications. She holds a degree from the School of Supernatural Ministry and is currently advancing her studies in early childhood education.
Her deep passion for behavioral health is inspired by her son, and her journey into childcare has been shaped by this personal connection. Lauren also has a 14-year-old beagle mix, who teaches her daily lessons in patience. She is genuinely committed to her work and looks forward to continuing her growth and learning alongside her students.