A dad discusses why he chose homeschooling and microschooling for his kids

In this episode of the LiberatED podcast, Kerry McDonald speaks with parent Gabriel Valles about his family's embrace of alternative education, including homeschooling and microschooling.

Gabriel shares his experience launching a low-cost microschool inspired by Acton Academy, his exploration of homeschooling and classical education, and his current journey with his son at Alpha School in Austin. He reflects on what worked—and what didn’t—when trying to create more affordable models, and why self-directed education and community support remain central to his vision.

Listeners will hear how Gabriel’s personal experiences shaped his philosophy that education should be about self-discovery, responsibility, and joy rather than simply academics or grades. He also discusses the role of alternatives to college like Praxis, the power of student-led projects, and why parents should reconsider what it means to prepare young people for meaningful lives.

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Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!