Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as a learning pod, a microschool is a "mini" school where students learn in a small group (usually 10 students or less) environment. This allows for the teacher or guide to meet more of their students' needs. This also means less distractions so student can focus on their studies more. With a smaller group, students usually move through transitions and their work faster than they would in a traditional school (although some students may need extra time on certain skills). Therefore, they are able to get more learning/practice done in less amount of time.  Microschools can be held in a home, church, library, or other building. My microschool is held in my home. 

I worked for mesa public schools for 7 years. I am a certified elementary teacher for grades K-8th. I am also a mom of 3 children. 

I get it. I know some children love that bigger community feel, and that's okay! I am all about school choice. Some students like to be around large groups of people, while other students thrive better, and are more comfortable connecting with others in a smaller group. You know your child, and it's all about what's going to work best for them. 

Due to our school having lots of hands on projects, there is lots of discussing, problem solving, presenting, sharing in their work. Even with their core subjects, and because we work in multi-grade environment, students are encouraged to help/teach each other when they are able to. They are allowed to chat with each other as they work too as long as they are getting their work done. My students in my microschool have gotten much more opportunities to talk to each other than they ever did when I was teaching in a public school. 

To be honest, I was nervous when I first started out with a microschool, and had a k-5 group. However, running a "blended" microschool actually worked better than I expected. The older students tend to feel empowered as they were able to help the younger students when they got stuck on their work. The younger ones often have strong scientific questions, and help the older students see things from a different perspective. We work together as a team, and so far it has always worked out really well. 

Parents can apply for the Empowerment Scholarship Account or ESA and use their funds to pay tuition! You can learn about ESA here: 

https://www.azed.gov/esa/