Future Leaders of Excellence Academy (FLOE Academy) will be an all-inclusive, premiere academy providing school readiness for children of all abilities. It will provide group therapies (physical, occupational, speech, music, art, etc.) for all children enrolled to make sure everyone is meeting their expected outcomes and determine appropriate measures to help those that are not. It will produce top-notch teachers that will provide top-notch education to all students, thus preparing them to be productive citizens.
Future Leaders of Excellence Academy
We are an all-inclusive early childhood facility that cares for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old.
About Us
Future Leaders of Excellence Academy opened on December 4, 2017 with 7 seven children. Since then we have serviced over 100 children and families. Our facility has six classrooms and two playgrounds. We also have a large gross motor room that we use when the weather does not allow for us to go outside. As we have grown we have added 2 gardens to our facility as well. We believe children are one of the greatest assets to the world and we strive to prepare them for that world. It is also our mission to accept all children regardless of ability.
Children who have special needs learn from their friends social aspects and language, while their friends learn patience and compassion from their friends with special needs. We have always allowed therapists into the far slitty to work with children so parents don’t have to worry about taking off from work to get their child the services she/he needs.
Vision
Mission
The purpose of FLOE Academy is to:
- Provide quality childcare in a safe and healthy environment.
- Adapt lessons to meet the goals of each student.
- Meet each child at their learning level.
- Offer instructional opportunities through collaboration with various academic programs at local colleges and universities.
- Interface with the community through outreach and public awareness and activities.
- Disseminate information and provide technical assistance to other community based agencies
Our Philosophy
We are an all inclusive facility that integrates children of differing abilities in the classroom together. Typically developing children serve as models for the children w/ special needs inspiring language and creative play. The typical children are gaining understanding, acceptance and building wonderful values. We provide developmentally appropriate activities and also push our children to become great citizens.
We provide learning in all of the domains our children will need to conquer life and prepare them for the next steps of their learning journey.
Client Reviews
Inspiration
At FLOE – Future Leaders of Excellence, we focus on more than just education; we prioritize your child’s growth and development. Our nurturing environment encourages children to explore, learn, and gain essential academic, social, and emotional skills. With individualized instruction, purposeful play, and hands-on activities, we prepare each child for success both in school and beyond.
Our dedicated educators create a supportive community where children’s unique needs are met, helping them build confidence, independence, and a love for learning. At FLOE, your child’s potential is recognized, nurtured, and celebrated, setting them up for a bright future.
Your little one will have fun while learning new things, AND you can rest assured knowing all these activities are helping prep his/her brain ahead of time, so they are better prepared when it is time to enter the real world.
Leadership
We know that your child is not just a part of you but also an indicator of what’s to come in their future. That’s why our rigorous curriculum was designed by expert panels and advised by respected leaders who understand kids’ growth patterns as they grow into successful adults.
We always look for ways to improve the curriculum and creativity to provide children with quality early learning opportunities that fit their needs. We want every kid who visits our programs or attends classes at home, regardless of background & situation, can experience success!
Our Staff
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.
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.