Teach Your Kids Microschooling with Iman Alleyne & Shiren Rattigan
Manisha Snoyer sits down with Iman Alleyne from Kind Academy and Shiren Rattigan from Colossal Academy, trailblazers in the microschool movement in South Florida. They share personal journeys, emphasizing the importance of student autonomy, character education, personalized learning, and unique methodologies like Montessori 2.0. Thought-provoking discussions on topics such as the empowerment of students, criticism of traditional schooling systems, and the utilization of hands-on entrepreneurial projects reveal new insights into modern education. They also address sensitive subjects like bullying, acceptance, inclusivity, and the significance of specialized education during adolescence. The episode concludes with both guests sharing valuable resources and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to voice their innovative ideas. This is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone interested in the future of education.
Iman Alleyne (@imanc84) is an innovative educator and the founder of a pioneering microschool. Recognizing the shortcomings of traditional education systems, Iman embarked on a mission to create a learning environment that emphasizes developmental appropriateness and personalization. She has implemented the Montessori 2.0 approach, seamlessly integrating traditional Montessori methods with modern technology. Iman's dedication to inclusivity and mental well-being has led her to explore significant trends like the Black Minds Matter summit. With ambitious goals for expansion, Iman continues to influence education, fostering an environment that promotes curiosity, autonomy, and real-world preparedness.
Shiren Rattigan (@shirenrattigan) is the creative mind behind Colossal Academy, a cutting-edge school focused on teaching relevant skills for the future. Shiren's philosophy centers on empowering students, encouraging curiosity, and embracing experiential learning. She has a keen interest in student freedom, financial literacy, and early career preparation. Shiren's novel approach to guest speakers and unique methods that engage all five senses showcase her commitment to innovative education. She's been a vocal critic of traditional schooling methods and a champion for rewriting the educational system. Shiren's expanding initiatives, like Colossal Academy franchises and the Innovative Educators Network, highlight her growing impact on modern education.
Selected Resources from the Episode
- Kind Academy: | TikTok | Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook
- Colossal Academy: Instagram | Facebook
- Innovative Educators Network
- LiberatED Podcast
- VELA Education Fund
- How to start a learning pod | Modulo
- Homeschool Programs: Classes, Co-ops, Microschools and more…
- The Modulo Community
- Iman Alleyne’s recommendations:
- Shiren Rattigan’s recommendations:
Time Codes:
[00:00:00]: Manisha introduces her guests from Kind Academy and Colossal Academy, highlighting their roles in the microschooling movement.
[00:01:24]: Iman talks about her personal journey to start a microschool, expressing concerns about traditional education not fitting her child's needs. She sought alternatives that would be more developmentally appropriate.
[00:03:08]: Shiren explains her motivation behind Colossal Academy, highlighting the need to teach relevant skills for the future and prepare students for modern challenges.
[00:08:05]: Description of the Montessori 2.0 approach, blending traditional Montessori methods with technology. This innovative approach emphasizes personalized learning.
[00:13:29]: Emphasis on empowering students to voice their educational needs, reflecting on a student-centric philosophy.
[00:16:28]: Manisha introduces the topic of student autonomy, asking about the balance struck at Shiren's and Iman's schools.
[00:21:13]: Shiren discusses the importance of communication and freedom in her teaching environment, especially for students with ADHD. She encourages students to take charge of their own needs and actions.
[00:28:27]: Iman discusses the trend toward privatization in education, weighing both challenges and innovation, offering insight into the complex dynamics of modern education funding.
[00:31:04]: Exploring the importance of social and emotional learning, focusing on inclusivity and mental well-being, and emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming space for all students.
[00:34:40]: Shiren shares her journey as an entrepreneur, the spiritual exploration it entails, and speaks to the importance of inclusivity and choice in education.
[00:39:16]: The shift in mindset about rewriting the education system, a revolutionary approach to education, and the need for sustainability.
[00:52:00]: Iman explains the different levels of their online school, highlighting the self-paced, group, and one-to-one options. It's an overview of the flexibility and individual attention given to each student in their program.
[00:57:00]: The lack of educational options for adolescents is discussed, highlighting the importance of specialized education during this critical age. Shiren talks about the four major elements that adolescents need and emphasizes financial literacy and autonomy.
[01:02:40]: Announcement of new Colossal Academy franchises, the Innovative Educators Network's growth, and the upcoming launch of the microschool coach program.
[01:06:57]: Discussion of donation options—inviting listener support for educational initiatives.
[01:08:09]: Conclusion, book, and podcast recommendations.