Microschools. Maybe you’ve heard of them and thought, “Would a microschool help my child?”
Microschools has become a catch all term for a variety of new or innovative learning models that have gained popularity in the past few years. Some of these methods you have probably heard of like Montessori Schools. But others you likely haven’t, like Prenda or Kaipod Academies.
If you are unsatisfied with your child’s conventional schooling, here are 6 reasons to consider sending your child to a microschool.
1. An individualized learner driven education.
No two children are the same. Their strengths and their weaknesses are different. And their education should match these differences.
Microschools understand this. A majority of them offer an individualized, self-paced education. Their unique setup allows students to go at their own pace.
Educators help students set goals for their learning, and work with each child one-on-one creating a unique plan to fit each child. Students can then work on topics as long as needed to master the skills. Some children may take 1 week to master the concept, while another may take 3. Either way, the students aren’t having to wait for the others, or feel that they are slowing the group down.
One microschool founder reported that a high school student went from a 4th grade math level to an 8th grade math level in one year. These types of reports are not uncommon from microschools.
2. Smaller Class Sizes
Most microschools have class sizes much smaller than conventional public schools. Utah averages 26 students per class. However, microschool class sizes are well under 20 students. These smaller class sizes create a tighter community reducing bullying problems and the anxiety of going to school.
These smaller class sizes allow teachers to tailor the education to the children attending.
3. A Love of Learning
Many microschool founders have told me that the students love coming to their school. The reason is clear. Not only do they get to see their friends, they know they aren’t going to be made to feel inferior for learning at a different pace than everyone else. The beauty of microschools is that no student is behind or ahead, because they are all learning at their own pace and level.
This very fact increases a child’s love of learning. They know that they are going to learn what they need at the time they need it.
4. Aligned to your values
Because of the small size, finding a microschool that is aligned to your values is not difficult. Many microschools are religious based, but many are not. Many microschools teach free market principles. Many microschools believe in creating an inclusive environment.
Regardless of your beliefs, there is likely a microschool out there to match what you value as a family.
5. Flexibility
You can find a microschool that fits your family’s schedule. There are models that range from twice a week to five days a week. I personally have my child in a school that is 3 days a week with one online class and every Friday off.
Microschools offer you far more flexibility than the conventional public school model. Are you looking for a 5-day a week program that will let you take a family vacation whenever you want? There is a microschool for that. Want to try homeschooling, but need to work two days a week, and need your child to be in a school? There is a microschool for that.
6. Affordable
Microschools are very affordable.
Almost seventy-five percent of microschools have tuition that is less than $10,000. Thirty percent have one that is less than $5,000.
You don’t need to break the bank to attend a microschool. And if you are in a state with a program like the Utah Fits All, even better. These programs will pay for most microschools.
Check Them Out
We all see the potential and greatness in each of our children. Shouldn’t they have an education to match that greatness? Absolutely!
Microschools offer the best opportunity to find an education that fits your child. These amazing programs fit your family and values and they teach your child to love learning.
If you haven’t done so, check them out.
