LiberatED Podcast

Tiffany Thenor, Co-founder and CEO of WonderHere, shares her inspiring journey from public school teacher to pioneer of play-based microschooling. She discusses the transformative power of play and project-based learning, emphasizing joy and creativity in education. Tiffany delves into WonderHere's innovative licensing model that supports new founders in establishing schools nationwide. Additionally, she highlights the rise of alternative education models post-COVID and the importance of financial accessibility through programs like Education Savings Accounts in Florida.

Thomas Dowell was a public school teacher in Arizona for several years before deciding to become an education entrepreneur. He launched Moreana Boys Academy earlier this fall as a home-based microschool located just outside of Phoenix that his students attend tuition-free. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Scott Gallagher taught in public schools for 17 years before joining the founding team of Raritan Learning Collaborative, a full-time self-directed learning center for homeschooled teens located in Flemington, New Jersey. Raritan is part of a consortium of self-directed learning centers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and is a member of the Liberated Learners network. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Rebecca Newby taught high school English in the Pine Bluff, Arkansas public schools before becoming principal of Friendship Aspire Academy, a K-5 public charter school in Pine Bluff that is seeing skyrocketing demand from local families looking for new education options.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.  

A high school math teacher and principal in Montana public schools for over 10 years, Rusty Bowers launched Bozeman Innovation Academy, a K-8 Acton Academy affiliate, in fall 2023. Acton Academy is a fast-growing network of schools focused on learner-driven education. Founded in 2009, the Acton network now includes over 300 independently-operated schools, serving thousands of learners. *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.

Nathan Fellman was a public middle school teacher and administrator in New Hampshire for about 20 years before leaving his job to launch The Harkness House, a middle school microschool in Nashua, New Hampshire, which opened in fall 2022. Harkness House is a state-recognized private school that also has part-time enrollment options for homeschoolers, and some students attend at a reduced tuition thanks to the state's school choice programs. More families were asking for high school options, so Nate and his team decided to explore dual enrollment options, partnering with a local community college to expand offerings for high schoolers. Why Teachers Are Finding Meaningful Careers In Microschools (Forbes.com) *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.  

Mikel Matisoo, a seasoned educator at Sudbury Valley School since 1988, shares his journey from aspiring horticulturist to educator. He discusses the profound impact of self-directed learning on students and the unique philosophy of the school that champions autonomy. Mikel reflects on how the school evolved, the benefits experienced by multiple generations of his family, and the challenges faced during the transition to alternative education. Plus, he reveals insights on empowering students and the school's flexible enrollment policy.

Rachelle Noble, founder of Microschool Solutions and Noble Microschools, shares her journey from charter school teacher to microschool innovator. She discusses the rise of microschools and their potential to personalize education. Rachelle emphasizes the need for nurturing learning environments, especially for marginalized communities, and explores how educational accessibility can empower students. She highlights the challenges founder face, like recruitment and funding, while advocating for the transformative power of alternative educational models.

Blair Lee, founder of Secular, Eclectic, Academic (SEA) Homeschoolers, shares insights from her journey with a rapidly growing online community supporting 100,000 families. She discusses the evolution of homeschooling, especially post-COVID-19, and the unique challenges faced by secular homeschoolers, including those with neurodivergent children. Blair emphasizes the importance of community support, collaboration, and sustainable business models to foster inclusivity and engagement. Her advice offers valuable guidance for parents considering homeschooling.

Kymberly Kent is the cofounder and director of eXtend Homeschool Tutorial in Maryland, a faith-based homeschool program offering a la carte classes in core academic subjects for roughly 100 elementary, middle school, and high school homeschooled students.  *** Sign up for Kerry's free, weekly LiberatED e-newsletter on education trends at fee.org/liberated.