MICROSCHOOLS

Microschools are small, innovative learning environments that have gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frustrated with remote learning and school closures, parents have increasingly turned to microschools. These schools are emerging in unconventional ways outside traditional education systems, with their rapid growth becoming a significant narrative in American education.

They can operate in commercial or nonprofit spaces, private homes, or places of worship, and cater to various educational models such as supporting homeschoolers, accredited or unaccredited private schools, among others. Many believe that the transformative power of microschooling lies in its ability to tailor education to the specific needs of individual learners.

While microschools are not a new concept, drawing parallels to the historic one-room schoolhouses in 19th-century America, they are still in the early stages of adoption. Often operating within existing regulatory and funding frameworks that were not designed for their unique approach, there is a need to update these structures to accommodate these evolving educational settings. Unlike public schools, microschools have the freedom to develop their own distinct educational philosophies and methods, unrestricted by traditional constraints. Here are some examples:

Acton Academy, based out of Austin TX with almost 300 affiliates in 42 states and 26 countries.

Name / Location	Unique Learning Elements
Acton Academy, based out of Austin TX with almost 300 affiliates in 42 states and 26 countries. https://www.actonacademy.org/find	Learner Driven Education, Game Based Learning, Socratic Discussions, Real World Projects, Apprentices, Entrepreneurial Mindset, and a Focus on 21st Century Skills.
Khan Lab Schools, Palo Alto and Mt. View, CA https://khanlabschool.org/	Mastery-Inspired Approach, Project-Based Learning, Student-Centered Learning, Faculty-Guides
Hope United Academy, Madison AL https://www.hopeunitedacademy.com/	Focus on Individual Learning Styles, Small Class Sizes, Christ Centered Approach, Emphasis on Overall Development:, Specialized Curriculum, Community and Peer Support, Flexibility and Accessibility
Colossal Academy, Ft. Lauderdale FL https://www.colossal-academy.com/	Focus on Agriculture and Technology, Hands on Learning Environment, Small Class Sizes, Inclusive and Progressive Environment, Recognition and Support

Source: Suemo, May "20 microschools making their mark in the United States." workee.net

December 21, 2023