Skip to content

Microschools Explained: A Growing Educational Alternative in Arizona

Sponsored Partner Post: The Gifted Collective
A Note Form the Author,  Adam Laningham

Having spent most of my life in public education as a student, teacher, and later an administrator, I believe more options for students is a good thing. After over 20 years in public education, I chose to open Arizona’s first Gifted Microschool because the flexibility allowed me to do what was best for gifted and twice-exceptional children. The freedom microschools provide has enabled us to meet the needs of our students more effectively.

That said, I still encourage parents to do their homework when looking for the right educational setting for their child. Arizona offers many choices, but with those choices comes the responsibility to determine which option is truly best for your child.

What is a Microschool?

Education is evolving, and both Arizona and the nation are witnessing significant changes in how children are taught. Traditional schooling, often designed for larger groups, has prompted parents, educators, and students to explore alternatives that cater to unique learning styles and provide greater flexibility and personal attention. One such emerging model is the microschool. But what exactly is a microschool, and how does it differ from conventional education? This blog post explores what microschools are, how they function and the benefits and challenges they present.

Defining Microschools

A microschool is a small, independent educational institution that typically serves between 5 and 20 students. Unlike traditional schools, which often use standardized curricula to serve larger student bodies, microschools emphasize personalized education, project-based learning and flexibility in both curriculum and scheduling. Instead of organizing students strictly by grade level, microschools often group them by skill level, allowing educators to tailor lessons to each student’s needs.

Many microschools in Arizona operate as private schools and may qualify for Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA), which can help families afford these alternative educational services.

Origins and Evolution of the Microschool Movement

The concept of microschools is reminiscent of the one-room schoolhouses that were common in rural areas throughout much of history. In those settings, a single teacher educated children of different ages and skill levels using an individualized approach.

The modern microschool movement began in the early 2000s, driven by concerns over overcrowded classrooms, lack of teacher autonomy and the pressures of standardized testing. The movement gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic, as parents sought more adaptable educational options for their children. Advances in technology, such as online learning platforms, have also made the microschool model more viable, offering blended learning that combines in-person instruction with virtual resources.

Key Characteristics of Microschools

Though microschools can vary in structure and teaching style, they share several key characteristics that set them apart from traditional schools:

  • Small Class Sizes: With only 5 to 20 students, microschools provide a low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for more individualized attention.
    Personalized Learning: Teachers work closely with students to design learning experiences that align with their interests, strengths and areas for growth, often using project-based and hands-on activities.
  • Flexible Curriculum: Microschools have more freedom to create curricula tailored to their students’ needs, mixing core subjects with elective topics, life skills, or entrepreneurial projects. Some microschools may also adopt religious or secular educational philosophies.
  • Community-Focused Environment: The small size of microschools fosters a strong sense of community. Parents are often more involved and the learning environment feels collaborative and supportive.
  • Teacher Autonomy: Without the constraints of standardized testing or district mandates, microschool teachers can design and deliver lessons creatively, making it an appealing setting for teachers who feel limited in larger, more traditional systems.
Microschools vs. Traditional Schools

To understand why some families choose microschools, it helps to compare them with traditional schooling models:

  • Size and Structure: Compared to large public schools, microschools intentionally limit class sizes to create a more intimate and personalized learning experience.
    Curriculum: Traditional public schools follow state or district standards, while microschools have the flexibility to create customized curricula that align with each student’s needs.
  • Standardized Testing: Microschools typically de-emphasize standardized testing, opting for alternative assessments like portfolios, presentations, or teacher evaluations, allowing for a more comprehensive view of a student’s progress.
  • Learning Environment: Students in microschools may be grouped by skill level rather than age, which supports peer learning and mentorship. The smaller class sizes also allow teachers to foster close relationships with students.
  • Parental Involvement: Many microschools encourage significant parental involvement and parents may even take on teaching or administrative roles within the school.
The Benefits of Microschools

Microschools offer a range of benefits that appeal to families, educators, and students:

  • Personalized Attention: The low student-to-teacher ratio allows for tailored learning experiences that meet each student’s unique needs.
  • Flexibility: Microschools often have more flexible curricula and schedules, making them a good fit for families with non-traditional schedules or students who thrive in customized learning environments.
  • Project-Based Learning: Many microschools emphasize hands-on, project-based learning, which fosters creativity, critical thinking and collaboration.
    Community and Collaboration: The close-knit community of a microschool creates an inclusive environment where students, teachers and parents work closely together.
  • Teacher Satisfaction: Microschool teachers often report higher job satisfaction due to the autonomy they have and the close relationships they build with their students – such as sports teams, music programs, or clubs—that are available in larger schools.
Challenges Facing Microschools

While microschools provide many advantages, they also face some challenges:

  • Financial Sustainability: Microschools may struggle to remain financially sustainable without the large funding bases of public or private schools. They often rely on tuition, grants, or community support.
  • Access and Equity: Not all families can afford microschools, which may lack the resources to provide services like special education or transportation, limiting their accessibility.
  • Limited Extracurricular Opportunities: Due to their small size, microschools may not offer a wide range of extracurricular activities like sports or music programs.
The Future of Microschools

As the demand for personalized, flexible, and community-focused education grows, microschools are likely to expand. Advances in technology have made it easier for microschools to offer a diverse curriculum, and the pandemic has prompted many families to reconsider traditional schooling options. Although microschools face challenges, they present a promising alternative for families seeking a different approach to education.

Is A Microschool The Best Fit For My Child?

A microschool may or may not be the best choice for your child. It’s essential to take the time to explore all educational options—whether public, private, charter, or microschool. Understanding your child’s unique needs, including social and emotional development, is key to finding the right fit.

Do your research: read reviews, talk with the teachers and administration and speak with other parents to understand their experiences.

About The Author

Adam Laningham is the author of several books and has over 20 years of experience in education. Named Arizona Gifted Teacher of the Year, Adam has taught at multiple grade levels, created numerous gifted programs, and coordinated programs for over 6,000 gifted students.

Adam is the founder of Bright Child Books, The Gifted Collective, and Gifted Microschool. He is also an international speaker, consultant, current President of Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), a member of AAGT’s Advisory Council, a founding member of Callisto, and an advisor for CogAT Riverside Insights.

Back To Top