More Than A
High School®
You gave them roots. We’ll give them wings.®
Who we are
Your Education, Your Way:
In-Person or Online
At Freedom Ave Maria, we believe education should adapt to the student. We offer a comprehensive range of high school courses through two distinct pathways: our vibrant in-person campus and our dynamic online learning platform.
Regardless of the setting you choose, every student experiences our nationally award-winning C5 Curriculum: Core, Civics, College & Career, Consumerism, and Character. This well-rounded approach prepares students academically while equipping them with the practical life skills and values needed for college, careers, and engaged citizenship. Whether full-time or part-time, students benefit from a flexible, supportive, and future-focused education that fits their lifestyle.
Personalized Support Through Success Coaches
Every student at The Freedom Institute, whether attending in-person or online, is paired with a dedicated Success Coach. These mentors play a vital role in both academic and personal development by acting as teachers, mentors, and advocates.
Our Success Coaches provide direct instruction and individualized support to help students stay accountable with their learning and assignments. Beyond the classroom, they assist with Dual Enrollment navigation, college applications, career planning, and securing internships. Through regular check-ins and strong relationships with families, our Success Coaches create a personalized and purpose-driven experience for every learner.
Free College Starting in 9th Grade
We are proud to offer a robust Dual Enrollment program that allows students to begin earning college credits as early as their 9th grade year. This program is provided at no cost to families, allowing students to jumpstart their higher education while still in high school.
By integrating college-level coursework into our flexible schedule, students can graduate with a significant head start on their degree, saving both time and thousands of dollars in future tuition. Whether learning in person or online, our students have the unique opportunity to master high school essentials while simultaneously proving themselves in a college environment.
A Tailored Learning Environment
To ensure every student thrives, The Freedom Institute supplements its core curriculum with a wide range of resources tailored to individual learning needs. Our model includes:
Interactive Platforms: Engaging digital tools for both classroom and home use.
Adaptive Learning: Curriculum that adjusts to the student's specific pace.
Advanced Coursework: Opportunities for honors and accelerated learning.
Targeted Remediation: Focused support to bridge any learning gaps.
By offering multiple ways to access content and demonstrate understanding, we accommodate different learning styles and interests. This student-centered approach helps us deliver a more effective and personalized experience for all, whether you are learning in our hallways or from your home.
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Meet the Team
At Freedom Ave Maria, our team is the heart of everything we do. We’re a diverse group of thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers united by a shared mission: to build ethical, impactful solutions that empower people and businesses. With expertise spanning data science, engineering, design, and strategy, we bring innovation and integrity to every project—driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a commitment to freedom.
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Chief Executive Officer/Teacher for Careers with AI, Civics, and English
Mr. Chris Marker brings over 30 years of experience in student success to The Freedom Institute. Notably, he is also a proud parent, having successfully homeschooled his son from K-12, who is now a thriving engineer in our local community.
His journey from farm country to becoming a respected figure in education is a testament to his strong work ethic and determination. Starting with a Bachelor’s degree at Miami University, he embarked on a career in social service and education. His diverse roles, from behavior therapist to principal, have enriched his understanding of student needs. His educational achievements, including a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Doctoral work in Educational Administration, further validate his expertise. His certifications are as a Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst (BCBA) and National Institute for School Leadership (NISL) certified, as well as as a Florida-certified school principal and school leader.
Mr. Marker empowers students, helping them achieve their educational goals, build a fulfilling career, and achieve economic freedom through learning.
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Executive Director of Programs & AI/Teacher of Algebra 1, Career with AI, and World History
Dr. Nathan Poteet brings over 14 years of experience as a teacher and administrator serving K-12 students in Collier County. Throughout his career, he has focused on raising student achievement and providing learning environments where every student can succeed. As an administrator, he led school improvement efforts that helped both Highlands Elementary and Lake Trafford Elementary move from a “C” school grade to an “A,” demonstrating his ability to drive meaningful academic growth.
From 2023 to 2025, Dr. Poteet served as the co-founder and first principal of The Freedom Institute of Collier County. In this role, he helped design and launch a high school specifically created for homeschool students seeking a personalized and career-focused education. His vision centered on giving students a tailored learning path aligned with their individual goals, helping them graduate prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further education while beginning their journey toward financial independence.
In May 2025, Dr. Poteet transitioned to a new role as the Executive Director of Programs and AI at The Freedom Institute. In this position, he leads efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into teaching and learning, offering professional development for businesses and educators, and developing AI credentialing opportunities for both students and community members. His work supports innovative, future-ready education while maintaining a strong commitment to individualized learning.
Dr. Poteet earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University and holds certifications in Educational Leadership (K-12), Exceptional Student Education (K-12), Elementary Education (K-6), and Physical Education (K-12).
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Principal
Mrs. Jill Striz began her career in education in 2015 with Collier County Public Schools and has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to student achievement and instructional excellence. She has proudly called Ave Maria home for over a decade, where she is lovingly raising her family. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and for the past five years, Assistant Principal, where she has played an integral role in leading schoolwide systems, strengthening instructional practices, and fostering a culture of accountability and high expectations.
In 2019, Mrs. Striz was honored as a Teacher of Distinction and Golden Apple recipient. As an instructional coach, she was instrumental in helping guide a school under state oversight to earn an “A” school grade, reflecting her strong expertise in data analysis, teacher development, and strategic school improvement planning.
During her five years as Assistant Principal, Mrs. Striz has led initiatives focused on academic rigor and positive school culture. Her leadership approach emphasizes clear expectations and meaningful support for both students and staff. She believes that when educators are empowered and students are challenged, growth and success follows.
Mrs. Striz holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Ave Maria University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from University of West Florida. She currently carries endorsements and certifications in K-12 Gifted, K-12 Reading, K-12 ESOL, and Elementary Education.
Mrs. Striz is honored to serve as the Principal of Freedom Ave Maria. She firmly believes that holding students to high standards within a supportive environment allows them to reach their highest potential. Her vision is to cultivate a culture of excellence, strong character, and partnership with families to ensure every child is prepared for long-term and real-world success.
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Success Coach AI Division/Teacher of Careers with AI, Science, English
Mrs. Nicole Johns is an accomplished educational leader with over 11 years of experience spanning special education, instructional coaching, and school administration.
She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Florida Gulf Coast University. Mrs. Johns is a certified Professional Educator in Florida with endorsements in Educational Leadership (All Levels), Elementary Education (Grades K–6), Exceptional Student Education (Grades K–12), Reading, and ESOL.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Johns has served as a Reading Coach, Science Coach, and ESE Resource Teacher—roles in which she led Professional Learning Communities, mentored educators, and implemented innovative instructional practices such as STREAM Mornings and Digital Instruction Initiatives. She has taught both general and special education, demonstrating a deep commitment to differentiated instruction and inclusive learning environments.
Mrs. Johns is dedicated to helping every student reach their highest potential by recognizing and celebrating their unique strengths and backgrounds. She believes that education should not only prepare students for college and careers, but also cultivate leadership, innovation, and citizenship. Education that incorporates time-tested values—such as hard work, unity, and respect—with the possibilities of emerging technologies. Mrs. Johns envisions a school that reflects the spirit of progress and opportunity, where students and families are true partners in a shared journey toward excellence.
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Director of Growth
Eva Aspegren is the Director of Growth, Fundraising, and Special Events at The Freedom Institute. With a career rooted in transforming educational systems and empowering individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset, Eva is deeply committed to personalized education and the principles of education freedom. Over the past 20 years, she has led initiatives in entrepreneurship education, strategic planning, nonprofit development, community-building, and fundraising campaigns while fostering innovative programs across K-12 and higher education.
Eva’s journey reflects her passion for education that honors individuality and equips students with real-world skills. She has developed programs spanning K-12 to higher education, including entrepreneurship training and health education, while championing parental choice and alternative learning approaches. Growing up in socialist Hungary instilled in her a profound appreciation for freedom and the transformative power of education to create lasting change.
A mother, entrepreneur, and health enthusiast, Eva also advocates for balanced living and personal empowerment. She holds an MBA from Ohio University, a Master’s in Economics from the University of Pécs, Hungary, and certifications in leadership development and integrative health coaching. Eva is dedicated to advancing educational solutions that uphold freedoms and promote personal choice in learning.
Welcoming Soon!
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Office Manager Ave Maria
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Director of Digital Strategy
Lauren Grady, a versatile artist, mentor, and mom, stands out in various roles. Lauren’s ability to weave historical narratives into her photography is paralleled by her skill in storytelling for The Freedom Institute’s brand, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
Her dedication to mentorship has dramatically impacted the lives of many students, inspiring them to harness their inner creativity. Lauren’s ability to connect with people is well-recognized, enhancing her role as a Marketing Director. She is a proud mom to a gifted 13-year-old. Lauren’s passion for her roles, from art to mentorship, resonates with people from all walks of life.
Contact Us
Have questions or want to learn more about how Freedom Ave Maria can support your goals? Reach out using the form below and let us know how we can help—whether you're interested in a tour, or just need more info. Once submitted, a member of our team will get back to you within 1–2 business days.