Frequently Asked Questions

Is Brilliant Microschool a private school or a homeschool?

• • Brilliant Microschool is registered as a Private School, accredited by ACS WASC. However, you may need to observe some local homeschooling laws. Contact us for assistance with fulfilling local requirements or completing necessary documents.

What is the class size and schedule for Brilliant Microschool?

• • General Education (GE) classrooms have 8-10 students per teacher, while Exceptional Student Education (ESE) classrooms have 4-6 students. Live classes occur in the morning or afternoon for 3 consecutive hours for GE and 1.5 hours for ESE. Class start times vary by teacher but typically fall between 8 am and 12 pm in your local time.

How does the Brilliant Microschool schedule compare to traditional schools?

• • Our program aims to provide an average 1.5-grade levels of growth in an academic year, but that will vary for each student. We minimize time lost in transitions and maintain focus in small classrooms. Our GE program deeply covers core subjects and incorporates interdisciplinary projects. The ESE program focuses on core standards and life skills.

How does Brilliant Microschool address socialization and interaction among students in the online environment?

• • To promote socialization and interaction among students, we encourage parent-hosted afterschool meetups. These meetups provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers, participate in group activities, and build lasting friendships outside the online classroom.

How are teachers selected, and what qualifications do they have?

• • Brilliant Microschool has a rigorous vetting process for selecting teachers. This process includes multiple interviews, background checks, peer teacher evaluations, and trial lessons. Our teachers are experienced and qualified professionals who are committed to providing high-quality education to all students.

How does Brilliant Microschool handle bullying or other behavioral issues in the online environment?

• • Brilliant Microschool is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We have a strict anti-bullying policy, and any incidents of bullying or inappropriate behavior are addressed promptly by our staff. Students and parents are encouraged to report any concerns, and we work closely with families to resolve any issues that may arise.

How does Brilliant Microschool manage screen time?

• • Brilliant Microschool differentiates between 'good' and 'bad' screen time, embracing productive and educational screen usage. The program promotes safe and appropriate internet use and prioritizes active learning over passive consumption. The school day structure also offers afternoon activities that do not involve screen time.

Is the curriculum aligned with state standards?

• • Our teachers can confidently teach to any required standards for ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies. We use adaptive learning software (MobyMax and iReady) that aligns with all US state standards, allowing for progress tracking and targeted improvements.

How does the curriculum address other subjects required for school?

• • We emphasize ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, Language, Coding, Health and Art electives for GE. Lesson plans often involve interdisciplinary or project-based approaches. You may supplement the curriculum with additional sessions through our tutoring division, which offers a discount for enrolled students.

What is the process for transitioning back to public school?

• • Requirements vary by state and grade level. Check https://hslda.org/legal for details and inform us of any support needed. We can help your student prepare for any required examinations and provide guidance by contacting your school district for specific requirements.

How do electives work at Brilliant Microschool?

• • GE students have access to Art, Spanish, Health and Coding electives. Classes, led by professional Brilliant Grades tutors, meet once per week in a separate Zoom room. Additional paid electives are available through the Brilliant Grades tutoring division.

Are textbooks or other materials required for classes?

• • No textbooks are required, as all materials are available online. Please note the Essential Materials section above. Physical materials are optional for certain projects, and teachers provide digital alternatives. If a teacher believes your student would benefit from additional supplies, they will contact you directly with a recommendation.

What is Brilliant Microschool's approach to handwriting and writing on paper?

• • Brilliant Microschool acknowledges the importance of handwriting alongside typing. Younger students will receive occasional printable worksheets to practice handwriting, while older students will handwrite paragraphs or essays. Teachers monitor progress through screenshots or photos of the handwritten work. Some teachers recommend using graphic tablets for digital writing and note-taking.

What is the homework structure during the independent study period?

• • The GE program includes at least 1 hour of independent work in the afternoon, which may consist of specific tasks, reading, projects, or group work. Assignments are typically posted in a virtual classroom, such as Toddle. Teachers can adjust the workload according to the student's needs and stamina.

Are students tested, graded, and provided with transcripts?

• • Brilliant Microschool utilizes a diverse assessment regimen, including iReady for official assessments. We can provide specific assessments, grades, or transcripts upon request. For more information, please review our Instructional Arcs.

How do Brilliant Microschool support students' transition to higher education or career pathways?

• • Brilliant Microschool offers career counseling services starting in middle school. Our career counseling program helps students explore their interests, identify potential career paths, and develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields. We are committed to supporting our students as they transition to higher education or pursue their career aspirations.

How are different ability levels accommodated in the classroom?

• • Our mastery-based classrooms are designed to accommodate diverse abilities and ages. Tasks and assessments challenge each student according to their needs and skills. Our learning model allows students to work at their own pace, fostering faster progress and better knowledge retention. This approach benefits all students, as it mirrors real-life situations where individuals have varying ability levels.

How does Brilliant Microschool handle special education needs and accommodations for students with learning disabilities?

• • At Brilliant Microschool, we embrace the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) approach, which aims to create accessible and flexible learning environments that cater to the needs of all students. While we request copies of any student IEPs and consider them, we may not implement them to the letter. Instead, we provide universal accommodations designed to address the majority of feasible accommodations in an online setting, making them accessible for all students.

How are classes managed if a teacher is sick?

• • If a teacher is sick, they will communicate their absence and reschedule the missed hours. For longer absences, a suitable substitute teacher will be provided.

What is the attendance policy for Brilliant Microschool?

• • We monitor and record attendance for state reporting purposes. Although we require a minimum of 140 days, we are flexible as long as students progress through the curriculum at the required pace. Classes can adapt to occasional absences due to their small size and personalized lesson plans. However, consistent attendance is crucial for student success, and frequent absences may indicate a lack of commitment.

What happens if a student leaves the microschool after their 3-month commitment?

• • While most students stay for one or more academic years, some may leave due to changes in plans, travel, or transitioning to traditional schools. These situations rarely disrupt the classroom, and new students may enroll throughout the school year to fill any empty seats. Students that leave before the end of an academic year will receive term reports but cannot receive an accredited transcript.

What is the parent's role in the Brilliant Microschool?

• • Parents should provide support outside of class hours, ask about their child's learning, and ensure they complete assigned work. While teachers facilitate active learning in the classroom, parents should encourage learning at home.

How can I monitor my student's progress?

• • Teachers provide weekly feedback via email and Toddle, with options for dedicated audio or video feedback. For serious discussions, a 1:1 meeting can be arranged between the parent and the teacher.

How can I communicate with the Brilliant Microschool administration team and my child's teacher?

• • Reach the administration team at microschools@brilliantgrades.com for billing, scheduling, and administrative matters. Teachers can be contacted via email for homework and classroom-related inquiries. Weekly teacher updates, and Google Classroom are also available for communication.

Is there a trial period for new students to determine if Brilliant Grades is a good fit for them?

• • Currently, we do not offer a trial period for new students. However, we are always available to answer any questions and provide support to help families make informed decisions about whether Brilliant Grades is the right fit for their child.

How do monthly payments work with holidays and term time?

• • Billing occurs every 30 days and is all-inclusive, accounting for electives and holidays. Notify Brilliant Microschool at least 2 weeks before the end of each quarter if you wish to discontinue your participation.

Can my child join Brilliant Microschool part-time or as a supplement to their current schooling?

• • Currently, we do not offer part-time enrollment at Brilliant Grades. However, we are considering the possibility of providing part-time options in the future.

Are there any additional resources, such as tutoring or support services, available for students who require extra help?

• • Yes, students who require extra help have access to our tutoring division at a discounted rate. Our tutoring services are designed to provide personalized support and guidance for students who need additional assistance outside of the regular classroom.