planting seeds for a lifetime love of learning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a microschool?
Microschools are essentially the return of one-room schoolhouses. Microschools are independent learning institutions and are sometimes described as “outsourced homeschooling.” They feature small class sizes, mixed-age groupings, and carefully crafted curriculums chosen by the teacher or parents. Microschools are often founded by teachers or parents looking for alternative options of learning.
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Microschooling is a relatively new concept and sits between homeschooling and private schooling. Flexible scheduling, individualized learning, and the setting of homeschooling are common in microschools, and licensed teachers who are committed to high levels of learning are often prioritized.
Is microschooling a good fit for my child?
Your child will be a good fit for Garden Grove Schoolhouse if they love learning, playing, and exploring. Children will become independent thinkers and learners, self-starters, and mentors. We will work hard on developing the skills of problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity, and will spend a lot of time outside.
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Having children attend a microschool often requires a shift in thinking for parents who grew up in traditional models of public or private school systems. ​If you crave a slower pace and a home-like education alternative for your child and family, Garden Grove Schoolhouse may be a great fit for you!
Are there attendance requirements?
At Garden Grove Schoolhouse, our school year is 133 days long and attendance will be taken for our own records. Please let us know ahead of time if your child will be missing school.
Our flexible drop-off and pick-up schedule provides families the option to come a bit late or leave a bit early each day when needed. We also provide Fridays as a day off of school each week to accommodate appointments, trips, or family time.
As your child's first teacher, you know what is best for them and your family. If you go on vacation or attend an event or appointment during a school day with your child, that is wonderful! There is no better learning experience than real life, however, tuition will not be refunded or reduced due to your child's absence.
What curriculums and materials do you use?
We will use a variety of curriculums, resources, and materials for learning throughout the school day. Materials for learning through play include books, toys, puzzles, math manipulatives, fine-motor toys and tools, art supplies, natural materials, and loose parts. For in-depth or specific curriculum questions, email us!
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Before school starts, we will sit down with parents and students to discuss goals for the school year. We will make a Personalized Learning Plan for each student to help him or her reach their goals and make progress in all areas of learning. We will generally follow the state academic standards for each grade-level as a guide, but won't use them as a checklist or to limit learning. Children may work above and beyond their "grade-level" in individual subject areas. Our hope is that students will be well adjusted and ready to jump into learning whether they attend public school, private school, or homeschool following their time at Garden Grove.
How does feedback work without testing or report cards?
Our goal at Garden Grove Schoolhouse is to help students love learning and become confident in their abilities to read, write, create, communicate, and solve problems. We want natural learning to be the focus of each day, not grades or test results. We will use occasional formative and summative assessments to inform learning.
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Feedback and reporting are valuable in inspiring students, guiding teachers, and informing parents. Parents will receive emails and pictures that will highlight and communicate their child's progress and growth. We will also have Student Showcases, where parents and families can experience the learning of their student firsthand. We hope these practical reports and experiences provide an opportunity for parents to celebrate with their child and encourage them in their continued growth and learning.
What about specialty subjects like art, music, and P.E.?
At Garden Grove Schoolhouse, our learning is integrated. Students will be exposed to art, music, and exercise activities each day alongside reading, writing, and math instruction. Students can also explore these specialties on their own during free-choice play times.
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How old does my child need to be to attend?
We follow the Utah state law that determines students need to be five years old on or before September 1 to attend Kindergarten in that school year. Garden Grove Schoolhouse currently accepts students who are in traditional kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade levels. Please email us if you have specific questions regarding your child's age or learning level.