Key Highlights
- The author discovered that different students thrive in different types of classroom environments.
- The article emphasizes the importance of selecting schools based on each child’s needs and personality fit.
- It discusses the limitations of traditional public school settings and how microschools can offer tailored education experiences.
- The piece advocates for a shift towards more individualized educational approaches, highlighting the concept of “school choice” as a way to meet diverse student needs.
Understanding the Challenges of Traditional Classrooms
Alexander Jackson’s journey as an educator began with a profound realization: every child does not belong in every classroom. In her reflections, she shares insights gained from her students’ experiences in traditional versus microschool settings.
In a public school setting, Jackson faced the challenge of accommodating diverse needs within the constraints of a fixed curriculum and teaching style. “I had no choice in who entered my classroom,” she notes, emphasizing the pressure to reach every student regardless of their fit with her approach.
Microschools: Tailored Learning Environments
When Jackson founded her own microschool in Atlanta, she found herself facing a different reality. “I thought I would serve everyone equally well,” she says, but soon discovered that her capacity was limited. She could not teach every subject effectively and struggled to support students with exceptionalities without the necessary training or resources.
One of the key differences between public schools and microschools is their ability to adapt to individual student needs. “In my microschool,” Jackson explains, “we incorporate short, active lessons and recess into our curriculum for grades four through 12.” This approach allows students like those with ADHD to thrive by providing an environment that accommodates their restless energy.
The Concept of School Choice
According to Jackson, the idea of school choice is not about exclusion but about finding the right match between a child and a learning environment. “School choice,” she argues, “is about belonging.” It involves recognizing that different students require different types of support and nurturing.
One poignant example comes from her experience with a student who needed a soft, nurturing presence. Jackson admits that her own teaching style, shaped by her upbringing, did not always resonate with this particular child. “I come across as harsh,” she admits, which made it difficult for the student to believe in his worth.
These experiences led Jackson to conclude that being selective is sometimes necessary but not discriminatory. It’s about capacity, alignment, and care. “My school is wonderful for the right family and for children who need short lessons, movement, flexibility, and structure wrapped in humor,” she states.
The Future of Education
As Jackson reflects on her journey, she envisions a future where schools openly acknowledge that every child may not belong everywhere. “We should stop shaming teachers for not reaching every child in the same way,” she suggests, advocating for more ecosystems where families and educators can find their best fit.
This shift towards individualized education could have significant implications for educational equity and well-being. By embracing school choice as a principle of inclusion rather than exclusion, Jackson believes that both students and teachers can thrive in environments designed specifically to meet their unique needs.
