Our school philosophy is based on three foundational pillars:
We believe that an excellent education begins with the student-teacher relationship.
We are committed to providing an academically rigorous, small-scale alternative to private & public-school education.
We promote the culture and atmosphere of a “modern homeschool” that maintains “classical roots”.
So, what is a “modern homeschool”?
The Small School is an alternative to “traditional homeschooling”, i.e. schooling done primarily within the home, with parents or guardians facilitating the majority of academic instruction. After years of being hired by homeschool families to teach privately in their homes, our founder realized there was a need for an alternative form of homeschooling: one that didn’t have to compete with the home as a classroom, nor require the student’s busy family to provide instruction. This realization eventually led to the creation of The Small School: an academically rigorous, in-person program for homeschool students, guided by experienced educators who are passionate about teaching small, engaged groups. We describe our school as "modern" because we believe this innovative approach to homeschooling can thrive in today's evolving educational landscape while still delivering the profound, transformative learning experiences that homeschooling has offered for centuries.
And what are “classical roots”?
Classical education has its roots in ancient Greece & Rome and to this day is a philosophy of education found in some of the most pre-eminent schools around the world. Such a mode of education is intended to make the student “free,” as in having virtue and an independence of mind. Classical education focuses on the liberal arts of the trivium: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. With an equal emphasis on natural sciences, mathematics, history, fine arts, and literature, a classically rooted education empowers students to apply themselves diligently to any course of study. This capacity is a precious skill in today’s world, allowing students to respond successfully to the constant fluctuation of job markets, technological advances, and the need for transferable skills. We believe that grounding our curriculum in timeless, proven principles protects both teachers and students from the pitfalls of fleeting educational trends and the narrow focus of 'teaching to the test.' Our core mission is to foster informed citizens and lifelong learners. To fulfill this commitment, we thoughtfully curate a curriculum that combines the enduring wisdom of classic texts with the contemporary insights and technologies that define our own era.
Still curious? We have more to share! Read about our educators, contact our leadership, and peruse our FAQs.