National Microschooling Center's Thursday Bulletin
Hello Microschooling Community!
Does it seem like everybody is talking about microschools right now?
Those of us who spend our days in this exciting million (or two) person strong movement aren’t surprised by this. Still, that adds up to just about 2 percent of our overall school population in the USA, and for that we do have quite the buzz going.
What does it mean? Among other things, it sure feels like growth. And this exciting time of year for education, growth is abounding in so many directions. Not the kind of growth that makes schools big, at least not for most. The kind of growth of a movement, with roots in communities in every state in America, experiences when its time is right. And all of the excitement makes it feel like that time is now.
Want to learn more, connect with founders near you and those all over who share your most compelling interests, or discover new ways forward? You’ve found the right place, and our nonprofit Center is here to help.
And don’t forget, with your membership, your whole team gets to take advantage of our trainings, events and programs. So if you’re a Center member onboarding new team members on the fly, send them our way, it won’t cost you a dime.
In this edition: Proven strategies to activate community partners for your microschool, wisdom from Acton Academy’s founder, new opportunity from the Drexel Fund, and a highlight offering from the Center’s Access Point program, Spark Your School.
Microschools in the News
“Ask Acton learners what they value most, and they’ll say freedom. Then often, without adult prompting, they add: ‘But you know, freedom always comes with responsibility,’”writes Jeff Sandefer, Co-Founder of Acton Academy, the global network of learner-driven schools in “A Different Sort of School,” his article in National Review this week. He goes on to discuss the process, and potential, avoidable, perils which sometimes jeopardize strong beginnings to the learner-driven learning journey, especially for parents and adults whose experience comes in traditional classrooms. “Children are capable of far more than we realize, and that foundational belief is the key to Acton’s success.”
We asked Center team members, “what would you say to someone who is dreaming of opening a microschool?” Take a listen in to Alex Roosenburg and Katie Elliott, and then head to our website for all the how to open a microschool guidance, resources and supports that you need!
New Support Opportunities From the Drexel Fund
From the Drexel Fund comes this new opportunity for first-time private school founders to learn about the fundamentals of school development and hear from leaders who have launched private schools. Following the virtual sessions, participants will be informed of additional school development workshops and other opportunities for private school startup support provided by The Drexel Fund. Information Sessions will be held at 7pm ET on the following dates: September 22, November 3, January 19, 2027, March 16, May 4.More information and registration here.
Access Point: All the Need-to-Know info about Learning Tools and Providers
Considering learning tools, curriculum or other services for your microschool this year? Then you won’t want to miss theAccess Point, the ultimate place for gathering discounts, deals and info!
Provider Spotlight: Spark Your School
This week, we're featuring Recognized Provider Spark School Software. Spark is an innovative school software that seamlessly combines a Learning Management System (LMS) and a Student Information System (SIS) into one affordable, user-friendly platform. Designed by microschoolers for microschoolers, Spark empowers both educators and students with a comprehensive suite of flexible features, including student and guardian portals, course management, gradebooks, billing, customizable forms, and streamlined enrollment—all in one convenient solution. Spark offers discounted pricing for Center members.
Events You Need to Know About
Take a look for virtual trainings, conferences, local meetups and more!
National Microschooling Center Sneak Peak! | Monday, Sept 7th, 4pm PT/7pm ET
New to microschooling? Microschooling for years but new to the Center? If so, the join our Sneak Peak meeting with Center's Outreach Coordinator, Dr. Erin Flynn! Erin will share microschooling info and fill you in on the resources the Center has to offer. Register here!
Office Hours, Currently Operating Founders and Facilitators | Thursday, Sept 10th, 3pm PT/6pm ET
Join Alex Roosenburg for monthly conversations about struggles, joys, and other general support for running your microschool. We can all work together to suggest resources, celebrate wins, and create a nationwide community of school leaders. Register here!
Regional Meetings
Virtual Alabama Microschools Meetup: Tuesday, September 8th | 4pm PT/7pm ET
For prelaunch and currently operating founders and leaders! Join Tiffany Blassingame to connect with Alabama microschools! Email Tiffany@microschoolingcenter.org to learn more.
Virtual Texas Microschools Meetup: Wednesday, September 16th | 3pm PT/6pm ET
For prelaunch and currently operating founders and leaders in Texas! Join Dr. Erin Flynn and microschools across Texas! Email erin@microschoolingcenter.org to learn more.
Have a question? Want to share an idea or resource? We love hearing from you, reach out any time!
Ashley & Don Soifer
and the team of the National Microschooling Center
