Every child deserves a place to belong.
Personalized learning, meaningful connections, and room to grow. At Heart Filled Academy, we celebrate the strengths of autistic and neurodivergent learners.
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Small school.Big heart. 💚Learn • Grow • Belong
Why Heart Filled Academy?
Founded by a mother. Inspired by her son. Created for children who deserve to belong.
Heart Filled Academy was born out of a mother's love, a child's struggles, and the belief that every child deserves a place where they feel safe, understood, and valued.
When my son, Benny, started traditional school, I hoped he would have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and make friends as every other child. Instead, I watched my happy little boy become increasingly miserable.
He was constantly getting into trouble for things he didn't understand. He felt misunderstood, and his unhappiness grew so deep that he told me he didn't want to live anymore. As his mother, hearing those words broke my heart. I knew something had to change.
Desperate for answers, I began searching for ways to understand what he was experiencing. Along that journey, I discovered that Benny was autistic. So much began to make sense. He wasn't a bad child. He needed a learning environment that understood and supported him.
I knew a large school wasn't the right fit, so I searched for smaller private schools and microschools. That's how I found Prenda. Prenda gave me the opportunity to create a school for Benny and children like him, with a structured academic program and the freedom to offer more individualized attention.
And so, Heart Filled Academy was born.
Today, Heart Filled Academy is a small, nurturing microschool where autistic and neurodivergent learners can be themselves. We recognize that children learn differently, and those differences deserve understanding and support—not punishment.
I created this school because I never want another child to feel the way Benny felt, or another parent to experience that same helplessness.
Every child deserves to feel safe. Every child deserves to be understood. Every child deserves to belong.
At Heart Filled Academy, we don't just teach children. We see them. We celebrate them. And we believe in them.
— Heather Fontenot, Founder of Heart Filled Academy
Academics that meet children where they are
Using Prenda-powered learning and a supportive microschool model, we help students build skills and confidence through individualized goals and hands-on discovery.
Reading & Literacy
Reading practice, comprehension, spelling, and a love of books through structured and engaging activities.
Math at Their Pace
Personalized math practice that supports progress, problem-solving, and growing independence.
Writing & Creativity
Creative writing, self-expression, and targeted support for students developing their writing skills.
One page at a time
At Heart Filled Academy, every reader has a place. During daily silent reading, learners explore books that interest them, practice reading independently, and build confidence at their own pace.
From graphic novels and adventures to nonfiction discoveries, we celebrate the books that make students excited to read.
Building Confident Writers
At Heart Filled Academy, we recognize that writing can be especially challenging for neurodivergent learners. Our Writing Lab provides additional support to strengthen writing skills, build confidence, and develop each student's unique voice.
Through guided instruction, individualized encouragement, and creative activities, learners work on closing learning gaps while discovering that their ideas and stories matter.
Explore interests. Discover strengths.
Optional afternoon enrichment introduces children to new skills, friendships, and experiences.
Karate & Movement
Confidence, coordination, and personal growth through physical activity.
Music & Creativity
Opportunities to discover musical interests and creative expression.
Technology & Coding
Fun, engaging activities that encourage curiosity and problem-solving.
PE & Play
Movement, teamwork, and sensory-friendly opportunities for active play.
Writing Support
Additional instruction to strengthen skills and close learning gaps.
Social-Emotional Growth
Opportunities to practice communication, connection, and self-confidence.
Enrichment availability may vary. Outside providers offer optional services, with separate family arrangements and fees.
Growing Stronger, One Step at a Time
Through karate, Heart Filled Academy students have opportunities to practice coordination, focus, perseverance, and self-confidence in an encouraging group setting.
Every new movement is a chance to try something challenging, celebrate progress, and cheer one another on.
Finding Joy Through Music
Our piano lessons offer students a chance to explore music, practice new skills, and express their creativity in a supportive setting.
Each note is an opportunity to build confidence, focus, and a sense of accomplishment. At Heart Filled Academy, we celebrate progress at every pace.
Moving, Playing & Growing Together
Movement is an important part of learning at Heart Filled Academy. During PE, students explore activities that encourage coordination, teamwork, confidence, and healthy movement.
With encouragement and opportunities to participate at their own pace, our learners can practice new skills and celebrate their progress together.
Take a Look Inside Heart Filled Academy
Welcome to Heart Filled Academy! Take a peek at our school on the very first day of classes. Every detail reflects our mission to create a warm, welcoming space where neurodivergent learners can feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
Adventures, Friendships & Memories
At Heart Filled Academy, learning goes beyond books and classrooms! Our field trips give students opportunities to build friendships, develop confidence, explore new experiences, and create lasting memories.
Whether we’re learning something new or simply having fun together, every adventure is an opportunity to grow.
Our students enjoying a field trip to Sky Zone.
Find the right fit for your learner.
We welcome conversations with families looking for a smaller, more individualized learning environment. We offer a morning academic program and optional afternoon enrichment.
We'd love to learn about your child, answer questions, and arrange a visit.
Ask About EnrollmentWhat makes us different?
✓ A calm, nurturing learning environment
✓ Flexible support for individual learning needs
✓ A focus on strengths and confidence
✓ Enrichment beyond traditional academics
✓ A caring school community
We'd love to meet your family.
Have questions about Heart Filled Academy or want to arrange a tour? Send an inquiry and we'll help you take the next step.
Location: Desert Cross Lutheran Church education building, near McClintock Road and Warner Road, Tempe, Arizona.
Tours are arranged in advance. Please confirm program availability, schedule, and fees directly with the academy.