The Barrett School in Destin was co-founded by Adrienne Seaborn — Head of School, Audrey Hill
— Director of Finance and Clinical Services, Dr. Matt Weinberg — Dean of Academics, and Alex
Weinberg — Director of Operations. It offers a unique educational experience focused on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) while ensuring a well-rounded curriculum. The school is committed to providing personalized learning, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Sisters Adrienne and Audrey, trained behavioral specialists, never initially thought to open a
school, let alone of this magnitude. However, after discovering their passion for education, they planned to start The Barrett School, in Rosemary Beach. Initially, a preschool concept with an in-
house clinic, their aim was to provide an environment where they would be able to offer a quality learning environment for neurodivergent children, and be deeply involved in their own children’s
learning.
This vision was inspiring to the Weinberg brothers, friends of theirs, who decided they
wanted to be a part of this particular journey as well. In April 2024, the brothers invited Adrienne and Audrey along for a viewing of a different property — this time in Destin. After a walk-through
and a quick chat, they knew that this was it. They had found the new, much larger home of The
Barrett School. Like the space for the school, their dream grew. It would become much more
than a preschool. Over the course of the next few months, the space — an old bank — was
renovated, supported by the local government’s ability to provide the necessary permits and
God’s good grace, the school was ready to open in August 2024.
The now mammoth project needed a lot of work and staff to make it all come together. Many of
the staff, intended for the original vision of the school, followed Adrienne and Audrey. As
daunting of a responsibility as it was and is, the sisters wanted to honor and support this
dedicated staff and to add to it responsibly. With Matt and Alex on board, everything began to
fall into place.
With the hopes of starting the year with 30 students, the school has turned into a thriving
institution with 98 students and counting. The ethos of the school emphasizes the importance of
personalized education and a holistic approach to student development. In speaking with
Adrienne and Audrey, it was clear that their motivation comes from an honorable place. What
they shared with me about the school, its vision, and their goals is a testament to that.
At the core of The Barrett School’s curriculum is a rigorous STEM education that blends science,
technology, engineering, and math with creative arts. The school is equipped with cutting-edge
technology, such as 3D printers, virtual reality headsets, and an anatomy table, enabling students
to explore complex subjects in an interactive and hands-on way. The school integrates these tools
into project-based learning, allowing students to tackle real-world problems and make
connections across multiple disciplines.
The school’s curriculum also emphasizes critical thinking and creativity, encouraging students to innovate and apply their learning in practical ways. Whether designing robots, building structures, or exploring digital media, The Barrett School's students engage with technology in meaningful, impactful ways.
The Barrett School offers small class sizes, with a 12-14 student-to-teacher ratio in lower grades
and a maximum of 10 in upper grades, ensuring personalized attention. Using the HMH
curriculum and online tools, students progress at their own pace. Regular MAP testing tracks
academic growth, while additional support from reading specialists and therapy services is
available at no extra cost to parents.
The Barrett School provides various extracurricular activities, including clubs like Art, Robotics,
Game, and Sports Clubs, allowing students to explore interests and build teamwork and
leadership skills. Special events, such as Astronomy Nights and the upcoming Drone Club, foster
curiosity and hands-on learning. While the school doesn’t offer in-house sports, it collaborates
with local public schools to provide access to dance, martial arts, and team sports, with plans for
expanding physical activities in the future.
The Barrett School prepares students for diverse future paths, including college, trade school, or
career training. It offers specialized opportunities like flight simulation for aviation enthusiasts.
With accreditation, AP and IB courses will be available. Focused on personalized learning and
real-world skills, the school ensures students are ready for their futures. It also emphasizes life
skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving through academics and
extracurriculars.
The Barrett School is expanding to meet the growing demand for its innovative approach to
education. The school currently serves students from Pre-K 3 through 12th grade, with students
currently through 11th grade. Their current capacity is 130 students with hopes to utilize their
second floor more thoroughly and raise that number. These efforts will help the school maintain
its commitment to small class sizes and continue providing personalized education to a larger
student body.
In thoughtfully providing a superior approach to learning, and making it equally accessible to
neurotypical and neurodivergent students, the founders of the school are able to continue to
create a superior learning environment not just for the community, but for their own kids. Their
hope for the future? To grow The Barrett School in a way where satellite schools can be opened,
providing their stellar approach to education to so many more.
For more information about The Barrett School: thebarrettschoolfl.org | (850) 353 - 2153
In speaking with Adrienne and Audrey, their enthusiasm and genuine passion for The Barrett School was a refreshing experience. It was a reminder that when you dream, you should dream BIG…and pray. Pray some more. Then, with hard work and dedication, make it happen!