Freedom Elementary School

Freedom Elementary Families,

It is truly an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of Freedom Elementary School. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join a school community with such a strong tradition of excellence and pride.

I bring with me 29 years of experience in education right here in Manatee County, and I am proud to be a product of our local schools—Stewart Elementary, King Middle, and Manatee High. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving students and families as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal at several wonderful schools, most recently at Prine Elementary.

I believe schools thrive when home and school work in partnership for the current Freedom Elementary students. I am excited to learn about Freedom Elementary’s rich history, traditions, and the values that make this school so special.

On a personal note, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Michelle, who is a first-grade teacher, and our two children, Gage and Delaney. You’ll also find me around campus often, as I love being visible at school.
As we look ahead, my focus will be on listening, learning, and partnering with our students, staff, and families to continue the strong legacy of Freedom Elementary.

Together, we will ensure every child feels supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.

I look forward to meeting you, hearing your stories, and working alongside you in the months and year ahead.

Greg Sander
Principal, Freedom Elementary School

Dear Freedom Family,
As we ended another school year, a well-deserved summer break is finally here. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the past two amazing years at Freedom. It has been an absolute privilege to serve alongside you, support our students, and be part of such a caring and dedicated community. Your commitment, resilience, and heart have made a lasting difference.

I am deeply thankful for the memories we have created together, the successes we celebrated, the challenges we navigated, and the unwavering support and kindness that define this family. Freedom has truly been a “home away from home” for me, and I will always carry that with great appreciation.

I am incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished as a team, and I have no doubt that Freedom will continue to grow, thrive, and blossom in the years ahead.

As you step into summer, I wish each of you a peaceful and restorative break. May you find time to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with your loved ones.

Wishing you and your families continued blessings and a joyful summer.
With gratitude and appreciation,
Dr. Xhuljeta Gjini

This morning we had our annual 5th grade versus staff games! The kids had a great time competing and cheering for their team!

☀️🎉 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FUN! 🎉☀️

Parents, help us send our students into summer with smiles! TOMORROW, we invite families to decorate your cars for pick-up with fun summer themes, balloons, window paint, streamers, and positive messages for our students. Don't forget to write a special thank you message as well, to our AMAZING Freedom Staff!

Let’s make dismissal extra special and celebrate an incredible school year together! ❤️🤍💙

⭐️ We had a great morning celebrating our Honor Roll and BUG award students in 3rd and 4th grade!

As a reminder, there will be no school on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day, as we honor and remember those who sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy, and we are forever grateful.

Please also note a few important reminders for the last week of school: backpacks will not be permitted during the final three days, and dismissal will be early at 1:50 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Please plan accordingly to ensure the timely pickup of your child.

For our 5th-grade end-of-year celebration on Tuesday, we ask all families to complete the pre-sign-up to help ensure a smooth sign-in process.

Also, if you have medication in the clinic, it needs to be picked up by Wednesday, May 27th.

The last day of school will be Thursday, May 28th.

Go Falcons!