THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION: WHY MICROSCHOOLS ARE ON THE RISE
Updated: 4 days ago
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Parents today have more choices than ever, and one of the fastest-growing trends in education is microschooling. But what exactly is a microschool, and why are so many families making the switch?
Education is changing. Gone are the days when the only options for schooling were traditional public or private schools. More parents than ever are exploring options beyond traditional education. They have seen the one-size-fits-all model struggle to meet their child's unique needs, and they are exploring alternatives.
In 2019, before remote learning shook up the system, about 2.5 million students were homeschooled in the U.S. Fast forward five years, and that number has grown to nearly 4 million. That means 1.5 million more families have taken education into their own hands.
Why? Because parents have uncovered one major truth. Our education system was designed for the Industrial Revolution, not the Information Age. It was built to produce factory workers, not creative thinkers, problem-solvers, or entrepreneurs.
Now, families are embracing personalized learning by tailoring education to their child's strengths, interests, and pace. This shift has led to the rise of homeschooling and the growing popularity of microschools, which provide small, community-driven learning environments where kids thrive.
What is a Microschool?
A microschool is a small, independent learning environment that offers a more personalized approach to education. Think of a microschool as a modern take on the one-room schoolhouse. It’s a small, learning environment with typically anywhere from 5 to 15 students, giving kids a more customized education that meets their individual needs. Microschools blend aspects of homeschooling, private schooling, and traditional classroom learning to create a tailored educational experience.
Unlike traditional schools, microschools prioritize flexibility, hands-on learning, and community engagement. They often incorporate project-based learning, mixed-age classrooms, and a focus on essential life skills. Some microschools operate out of a teacher’s home, a rented space, or even within community centers. They gather in commercial or nonprofit spaces, private homes, and places of worship. Microschools can function as learning centers for homeschoolers, private schools (both accredited and unaccredited), or other flexible educational models. Others are part of larger networks with a shared curriculum and teaching philosophy.
When Did Microschools Start?
While the concept of small-group learning has been around for centuries, the modern microschool movement started gaining traction in the early 2000s. Education innovators began experimenting with alternative schooling models to address gaps in the traditional system. The movement truly took off in 2020 when the pandemic forced parents to rethink their children’s education. With schools closing and remote learning proving ineffective for many students, families turned to microschools as a flexible, engaging alternative.
Why Families Opt for Microschooling
Parents choose microschools for various reasons, including:
Personalized Learning: Small class sizes allow for more one-on-one attention and customized lesson plans.
Flexible Curriculum: Microschools often have the freedom to focus on subjects and skills that matter most to students and parents.
Safer Learning Environment: Many parents appreciate the smaller, community-driven atmosphere, which can minimize bullying and other social challenges found in larger schools.
Real-World Skill Development: Unlike traditional schools, which often focus heavily on standardized testing, microschools prioritize skills like financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and critical thinking.
More Parental Involvement: Parents can play a more active role in their child’s education without having to take on the full responsibility of homeschooling.
Microschooling vs. Homeschooling: What’s the Difference?
While microschooling and homeschooling share some similarities, they are distinct in key ways:
Feature | Microschooling | Homeschooling |
Who Teaches? | Hired educators or learning guides | Parents or tutors |
Class Size | Small groups (5-25 students) | Typically 1-3 students (family-based) |
Curriculum Flexibility | Some structure, but adaptable | Fully customizable by parents |
Social Interaction | Peer learning in a small community | Limited unless part of a co-op |
Legal Requirements | May require registration as a private school | Must follow homeschooling laws |
How to Fund a Microschool
One of the biggest concerns for parents and educators looking to start or join a microschool is funding. Luckily, there are several ways to make it affordable:
Education Savings Accounts (ESAs): Many states offer ESA programs that allow parents to use public education funds for alternative schooling options, including microschools.
Scholarships and Grants: Some private and nonprofit organizations provide funding for alternative education models.
Tuition-Based Enrollment: Many microschools operate as private institutions where families pay tuition, though costs are often lower than traditional private schools.
Crowdfunding & Community Support: Some microschools rely on local businesses, grants, or parent-led fundraising efforts.
Work-Exchange Programs: In some cases, parents can contribute their time or skills in exchange for reduced tuition.
How to Find a Microschool
If you’re interested in enrolling your child in a microschool, here are some ways to find one:
Online Directories: Websites like the National Microschooling Center and Prenda Schools offer databases of microschools by location.
Facebook Groups & Parent Networks: Many microschooling communities connect via social media.
Local Homeschool and Education Co-ops: Some homeschool groups also run microschools or learning pods.
Word of Mouth: Asking other parents or educators can be a great way to find hidden gems.
Why Microschools Should Teach Real-World Skills
Traditional schools often overlook financial literacy, leaving students unprepared for real-world money management. Microschools, however, have the flexibility to integrate financial education into their curriculum. Teaching kids about money early sets them up for a lifetime of financial success. Imagine students learning how to budget, invest, and even start their own businesses before they graduate. That’s the power of a well-rounded microschool education.
How Microschools Can Use KidVestors to Teach Financial Literacy
This is where KidVestors comes in. We provide engaging, age-appropriate financial education that teaches students how money works in the real world.
Microschools can integrate KidVestors into their curriculum to:
Make finance fun and interactive with gamified learning and real-world investment simulations.
Access ready-made lesson plans that align with financial literacy standards.
Earn While They Learn - We offer students rewards through KV Bucks, which can be earned for correct answers and redeemed later for real cash.
Cover program costs through Education Savings Account (ESA) funds, making it accessible for more families.
By using KidVestors, microschools not only teach financial literacy but also have costs covered through ESAs.
The Future of Education is Here
Microschools are reshaping education by offering small, personalized, and flexible learning environments that prepare students for the real world. Whether you’re a parent looking for a better educational fit for your child or an educator interested in starting a microschool, the possibilities are endless.
If you’re part of a microschool or considering one for your child, don’t overlook the importance of incorporating real world skills like financial literacy. Check out KidVestors to give students the money skills they need for a successful future. Plus, with ESA funding, it’s easier than ever to bring high-quality financial education into your microschool.
Enroll your students and remember, A Better Tomorrow, Starts Today!
EARN WHILE YOU LEARN : FINANCIAL EDUCATION THAT PAYS
