During the pandemic, two Montessori-certified teachers came together to create a learning pod, driven by their appreciation for Montessori principles but also recognizing the need for a more flexible and adaptable approach. This vision gave rise to CASCO microschool, a hybrid model designed to cater to the diverse needs of its students.
Located in a gym in Chesterfield, this microschool is redefining what education can look like for children from kindergarten through 8th grade. The founders have integrated many Montessori materials and principles into their curriculum, but they are not confined by the traditional Montessori framework. Instead, they have created an environment where learning is tailored to the needs of each child.
Flexibility for Families
One of the key features of this microschool is its flexibility. Families have the option to send their children full-time or to create a customized schedule that works best for their needs. Some children attend as little as two days a week, with homeschooling making up the remainder of their education. This approach allows families to blend the structure and resources of a school with the flexibility and personalization of homeschooling.
Real-World Learning
The school also values the importance of real-world experiences, regularly organizing field trips that enhance the students’ learning. These excursions allow children to explore the world around them, connect their classroom lessons to real-life situations, and cultivate a love for learning beyond the confines of a traditional classroom. Some of their field trips even include travel such as their upcoming adventure to the Olympic mountains in Washington, where students will experience hands-on learning while learning to act as environmental stewards.
National Collaboration
Further expanding their horizons, the school has partnered with a microschool in New York to share programming and educators virtually. This collaboration allows a small school like CASCO to broaden their scope of what they can offer academically. It also provides the students an opportunity to engage with peers from different regions. As part of this partnership, students will travel to New York, where they will visit the partner microschool and meet other students their age in person.
In addition to serving students, the school is a valuable resource for parents. Recognizing that homeschooling can be daunting, especially for those new to the process, the founders offer guidance and resources to help parents navigate this journey. They provide support and a community where families can connect and share experiences, ensuring that every child receives a well-rounded education.
At its core, this microschool is about more than just academics. It’s about creating a supportive, flexible, and enriching environment where children can thrive. By keeping the community small, the school fosters close relationships among students, parents, and teachers, ensuring that each child receives the attention and care they deserve.
In a world where education is often one-size-fits-all, CASCO stands out as a beacon of innovation and adaptability. It’s a place where children are empowered to learn in ways that best suit them, where parents are supported in their educational choices, and where the love of learning is at the heart of everything they do.