Get (micro)Schooled

In this episode, we sit down with one of our own teachers from our microschool to get an inside look at what it’s really like to teach in this unique, personalized setting. We explore how the smaller class size allows for more tailored learning, the challenges of creating a flexible curriculum, and the strong relationships between students and teachers. From the teacher’s perspective, we dive into...

Susan and Jill discuss a recent article from the Center from American Progress, the response from the National Microschooling Center, and their take on looking at accountability in microschools. Join us for the conversation!

In this episode, we dive into the key mid-year tasks for microschools—securing enrollment for next year, recruiting teachers, and planning summer programs. We also discuss how to structure schedules for fall and strategies to keep students engaged as the year wraps up. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or microschool leader, this episode provides actionable tips to ensure a smooth transition and a...

Join us as we dive into the behind-the-scenes journey of our microschool as we navigate the challenging yet rewarding path to accreditation. In this episode, we share the triumphs, hurdles, and key insights we’ve gained along the way—from the initial steps to meeting the rigorous standards. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or simply curious about what it takes to earn accreditation, this episod...

Join Susan and Jill as they walk you through essential tips to keep in mind as you approach tax season. Whether you're just starting out or have been running your school for a few years, this episode covers everything you need to consider as you prepare to close your books for the 2024 tax season. Tune in for valuable insights that will help you navigate the process with confidence!

In this episode, Susan and Jill explore the unique challenges and strategies that microschool leaders face in juggling both leadership duties and teaching responsibilities. It emphasizes the importance of time management, setting clear priorities, and establishing strong support systems within the school community. The episode offers practical tips for leaders, including delegating tasks, creating...

As we step into a new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on the journey we've taken in the world of microschools and what lies ahead. In this episode of Get Microschooled, we take a moment to pause and celebrate the milestones, challenges, and lessons learned over the past year. From innovative educational practices to building stronger, more personalized learning communities, we've made great...

Join Jill and Susan as they candidly explore the realities of running a microschool and the inevitable stressful days that come with it. In this insightful episode, they delve into the importance of normalizing these challenges and share personal anecdotes that resonate with educators and school leaders alike. Discover practical strategies that Jill and Susan employ to navigate tough days, from se...

Because let’s face it, sometimes the internet decides to take an unannounced vacation, and that’s when teachers pivot! Our last episode decided to take a hiatus as the internet signal dropped at the end, so here's the rest of that discussion! 

In today’s episode, Susan and Jill dive into their journey toward balancing strong academics with enriching experiences for kids. They discuss the challenges of navigating busy schedules and finding time in the day for everything. Join us as we share what strategies have worked best for us while offering insights to help you strike the perfect balance for your school!

Join Jill and Susan as they kick off the new season with an exciting catch-up on all the summer happenings and the fresh start of the school year! From summer adventures to back-to-school tips, they’ll dive into the latest updates and what’s in store for this season. Don’t miss out on the fun, the laughter, and the engaging conversations. Tune in and get ready for another fantastic season!

Join us for this episode as Jill and Susan debrief about this year's National Hybrid Schools Conference in Atlanta, Georgia hosted by Kennesaw State University. It was amazing!! So much learning, so much networking...mark your calendar for next year's event!

In this episode, Jill and Susan will share with you their journey in advertising and marketing. The business side of microschooling can be challenging for many of us. It’s true that you just have to jump in and keep going, even on the days that you are 100% sure you have no idea what you are doing! It will evolve over time and you will grow in your confidence! Join us as we share where we started,...

In this show, Jill and Susan will talk about how summer school has evolved at their school. They will share tips and tricks to think about as you consider summer school at your microschool!

In this show, Jill and Susan will talk about how summer school has evolved at their school. They will share tips and tricks to think about as you begin considering summer school at your microschool!

In this episode, Jill and Susan dive into reading practices. Jill has been helping teachers and schools improve reading practices for more than 20 years. She is the author of the book, Matching Reading Data to Interventions: A simple tool for elementary educators. If you work with dyslexic students or students with complex reading concerns, or if you are in early grades teaching readers how to rea...

In this episode, we will talk about how we got started and how we have evolved over our 3 years. Paying teachers, paying rent, paying for materials...costs add up quickly. We will share with you the things that have worked for us, and the things we have changed along the way.

In this episode, Jill and Susan talk all about microschool enrollment. Getting started can be hard. We have been there. We will dive into what worked for us as we talk about our beginning days and now. Join us as we give you tips and tricks no matter what stage you are in with your microschool! 

Friends! We have missed you! It's a new year and a new season and we are so excited to be back with you! In this episode, we talk about new names, give an update on Tayvis, and talk about goals--both personal and for our Microschool, Columbia Academy for Learning and Enrichment, or as we call it, The CALE School! Starting a school is so exciting and there are so many things to think about, things...

In this week's episode of "Get (micro)Schooled" hosts Jill and Susan dive into the complexities of adding teachers to your microschool team. Laugh, learn, and get schooled as they share their experiences, discuss the challenges, and offer valuable insights for educational leaders, teachers, parents, or anyone in the education field. From the importance of philosophical alignment to the art of sche...

This week's episode of Get Schooled is all about exciting new developments in the field of education. Join hosts Jill and Susan as they discuss a brand-new online course, "I've Got Reading Data... Now What?" launched by CALE Education and Company. This episode explores how this course aims to help educators, parents, and anyone involved in education better understand reading data and effectively a...

Join us for an exciting episode where we share our experiences from our recent journey to the world of micro-schools. We attended our first-ever micro-school conference in Kansas City, where we connected with fellow educators and leaders in the micro-school movement. Discover how our micro-school journey began, growing from a small group of ten students to where we are now, and hear about the insi...

In this episode, join Jill and Susan as they discuss the crucial role of instructional coaches in shaping teacher development and student success. Drawing from their extensive experience as both coaches and administrators, they delve into the power of collaborative teaching and share anecdotes that highlight the impact of effective coaching. Discover how humility, empathy, and a commitment to meet...

In this week's episode, join us as we explore the importance of different types of writing, the significance of explicit instruction, and the power of transitional words and phrases in improving student writing. Our guest, Amber Parks from Writing with Design, shares valuable insights and practical tips for educators, parents, and anyone interested in enhancing writing skills in students of all ag...

In this week's episode, join us as we dive into the journey of an experienced educational leader, Chelsea Jackson, who has successfully transitioned her school from traditional practices to a science of reading approach. Our guest shares her 17-year educational journey, from being a classroom teacher to her current role as a principal of a primary building. She discusses the challenges and triumph...