Our Founder and Owner of Dreams Academy of Florida served students in Escambia and Orange County in the field of education for 22 years. Seven of her years included serving in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Center Schools where she held the roles of Administrative Dean and  Assistant Principal of Instruction until her retirement in December 2023. During her tenure, she supervised a 27-member Student Support Services Team that included Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Clinical Social Workers, Behavior Specialists, SAFE Coordinators and School Counselors. 


Her degrees include a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Master of Education (Vocational Education), Bachelor of Sciences (Resources Management), and an Associate of Sciences (Business Administration).  Dr. Smith holds Florida Education Certifications in School Principal, Educational Leadership, Local Director of Vocational Education, English, Business Education, Exceptional Student Education, Reading Endorsement, and Coordinator of Work Experiences Endorsement.

MY WHY


My inspiration for opening an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)/360-Behavior Support Services Clinic is derived from my career and my grandson. During the seven years I spent working in ESE center schools, I witnessed students frequently being placed in the wrong educational environments. As a result, many students with sensory issues related to autism were triggered daily by behavioral outbursts. Many times, the staff lacked appropriate training to address these students' needs, and as a result, the students’ academic and social and emotional needs were not being met.  


I have a grandson and a relative on the spectrum, and it was important to me that they received a proper diagnosis, support and services. Knowing that my family members are properly diagnosed was only half of the battle. Finding ABA services near their communities presented a challenge. My grandson was limited to traveling 18 miles from his community to the Nemours Hospital. Having a company that is willing to service clients in underrepresented communities is a win-win for us, the caregiver, and the clients we serve.