About Us
Family owned and operated: Serving our community since 2004.
Homestead Christian Academy began with Denise’s love for children and a vision to provide families with a safe, nurturing place to learn and grow. Today, her daughter Nicole continues that mission alongside an incredible team of educators.
In 2024, we were blessed to open our second location, HCA at Agape. After more than 20 years, we’re p
Homestead Christian Academy began with Denise’s love for children and a vision to provide families with a safe, nurturing place to learn and grow. Today, her daughter Nicole continues that mission alongside an incredible team of educators.
In 2024, we were blessed to open our second location, HCA at Agape. After more than 20 years, we’re proud to continue growing while keeping the family-centered care that started it all.
Curriculum: Learning through play, exploration & faith.
Our classrooms use trusted, research-based curriculum, including Houghton Mifflin and Creative Curriculum, to build strong foundations in early literacy, language, social-emotional development and school readiness.
As a Christian academy, faith is naturally woven into our day through prayer, Bible stories, songs and age-appropriate lessons about God’s love.
Our Team: Teachers who love, nurture & inspire.
We know there is no greater trust than placing your child in someone else’s care. Our experienced teachers are committed to creating a safe, loving environment where every child feels known, valued and encouraged to grow.
Our team meets Florida training and background-screening requirements and maintains First Aid/CPR training along with ongoing professional development.
Leadership Staff
Ms. Denise
President & Founder
Ms. Denise founded Homestead Christian Academy in 2005 with a heart for children and families. Her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to quality early childhood education have helped HCA grow while remaining rooted in the family values it was built upon.
Ms. Nicole
Vice President & Executive Director
Ms. Nicole has dedicated her career to early childhood education and advocating for children and families. She helps lead HCA with a focus on quality, connection, and creating an environment where children can thrive. She is also a children’s author and founder of The Children’s Alliance of Florida.
Ms. Yoleisy
Director at HCA
Ms. Yoleisy has been a valued member of the Homestead Christian Academy family for over 15 years. As Director, she supports our teachers, partners with families, and oversees daily operations. Her longstanding connection to HCA helps create a warm, welcoming environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
Ms. Maria
Ms. Maria is an Early Childhood Specialist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, educators, and families. She works as our program specialist for both locations. Her background in literacy coaching and quality improvement helps HCA strengthen its programs and meet the needs of the children and families we serve.
Ms. Heyssel
Ms. Heyssel leads Homestead Christian Academy at Agape as the on site Director. She oversees daily operations and supports our teachers and families. She helps create a nurturing environment where children feel welcome, build confidence, and grow through play and learning.
Ms. Mariena
Ms. Mariena brings 15 years of early childhood education experience, including 11 years at HCA. Born and raised in Homestead, she shares a deep connection with our community. Her warmth and passion for teaching help children develop a love of learning and prepare for kindergarten.
Ms. Carmen
Ms. Carmen has cared for our youngest littles as part of the HCA family for nearly 20 years. Her love for babies shines through her gentle care, creating a nurturing space where our littlest learners feel safe, loved, and supported as they reach new milestones.
Ms. Dania
Ms. Dania has been part of the HCA family for nearly 10 years, sharing her passion for teaching toddlers. As our lead one-year-old teacher, she nurtures curiosity and growing independence through playful learning, helping little ones build confidence and discover the world around them.
Ms. Miriam
Ms. Miriam prepares meals with care for our HCA children, keeping little ones nourished and ready for a day of learning and play. She holds all required food handler certifications and brings a warm touch to our school kitchen.
Ms. Cristina
Ms. Cristina supports our little learners in the classroom and our school through her role as Assistant Director. She helps children build friendships, explore new ideas, and grow in confidence while supporting HCA’s daily operations.