FAQ

What is a microschool?

A microschool is kind of like a modern version of a one-room schoolhouse. It's a more personal and flexible setting than a public school. It combines elements of traditional education and homeschooling. Fruitful Minds Academy microschool follows WV education standards, but will be tailored to student needs and interests. Parents won’t have to pay out of pocket for tuition as long as they use Hope Scholarship money, which any WV student has access to! 

My child is homeschooled. Are they able to attend?

Yes! Starting the 2026-2027 schoolyear (which is when Fruitful Minds Academy will be opening) students who have never been enrolled in public school will be eligible for Hope Scholarship funds. 

What grades do you accept in this school?

2nd graders, 3rd graders, 4th graders, 5th and 6th graders. I'll consider accepting 1st graders if they have a sibling attending. If I get enough interest, I'll accept 6th graders as well! 

How will you have so many grades in one single classroom?

It is really no different than what I'm used to! In any given year, a teacher will have students on-grade level, years above level, and years below level. I will be able to tailor the educational experience for each child much easier this way. I won't be placing a large emphasis on grade levels during daily teaching. If a 3rd grader needs something on a second grade level, they will immediately be provided instruction on that level. On the other hand, if that same 3rd grade student is advanced in a part of math, I will be able to instruct them with 4th or even 5th graders during centers! There is a large body of evidence that mixed-aged classrooms help create successful students- peer learning and mentorship, social growth, individualized learning, and continuity and confidence.

Will my child still get to socialize with other kids?

Absolutely! They will be in a class of up to 20 students.

Will my kids be able to play sports still?

Yes, students enrolled at Fruitful Minds Academy are able to play public school sports and participate in extracurricular activities.

What are your certifications as a teacher?

I have a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education (grades K-6) from WVU-P. I've been a teacher for 10 years. I am also a qualified Special Education teacher, as well as a Certified Trauma & Resilience Practitioner of Education through Starr Commonwealth. 

How much time do kids typically spend on tablets? How do you differ?

Students spend roughly 420 minutes per day in a traditional classroom. 105 of those minutes are spent at lunch, recess, and things like Music or Gym. That leaves 315 minutes left in a school day. Studies show that students are spending anywhere between 90 and 100 minutes on iPads or screens per day. That’s nearly one third of instructional time spent on a screen! At Fruitful Minds Academy, screentime is limited. There will only be a few tablets on hand. Students will still learn valuable 21st century skills, without the reliance on iPads.

Will students move on to the next grade? 

Students will advance grade levels as usual.

What do students do after 6th grade?

They will return to public school or be homeschooled by you. No special tests are required to return to public school.

Does my child have to stay enrolled at Fruitful Minds Academy from 2nd grade through 6th?

Nope, they can come a year then return to public school or homeschooling, or whatever you choose. They're more than welcome to return for multiple years, though :)

How do I get my kid signed up? How does the selection process work?

Parents fill out an application (see the Apply tab above). The applicants will be chosen based on best fit- age, who I can realistically support in a one-teacher school, family commitment, etc. Enrollment starts February. 

When will I know if I have been accepted to Fruitful Minds Academy?

You will hear from me in February/March 2026. 

I heard students in this school don't have to do state testing, woohoo! What is the alternative?

That's correct! Students don't complete the WVGSA at all. Instead, progress is assessed via a portfolio. This means I keep track of how they are doing on grade-level work. Since I'm a certified teacher, I am legally qualified to sign off on this and send it to the board office. 

Do students in Fruitful Minds Academy use i-Ready?

Nope.

Is this school a non-profit? What does that mean?

Yes, Fruitful Minds Academy is a non-profit. That means that most of the money made goes directly back into the school. The business does pay me a set salary, the same as a public school teacher. The rest of the money pays for rent, supplies, materials, and anything else associated with running a school.

What will children learn here?

They will learn the 4 key subjects- reading, math, science, and social studies, as well as the arts. They will also learn basic life skills such as dealing with money, a mix of cursive writing and keyboarding, civic understanding of the US Constitution, and so much more... Check out the "Learning" tab for specifics! :)

Is this a Montessori school?

No, but I definitely draw inspiration from Montessori practices. Mixed age groups, the independence allowing children to have say-so over what they're learning and how they're showing what they know, educating the whole child (intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally), organized classroom environments, individualized learning, flexible seating, and intrinsic motivation as opposed to rewards.

Do you offer field trips?

It is my hope that I can obtain grants to pay for them! That's in the works...

What are the days and hours of this school?

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Wednesday is my "planning day". The hours are to be determined... the start time will be 8:30, with drop-off starting at 8:15. The day will end at 3pm.

What is the transportation situation? 

Parents are responsible for dropping students off and picking them up at 3pm.

Do you accept students with disabilities?

This will be determined on a case-by-case basis with legalities considered, as well as what I am realistically able to handle being the only adult in the building.

How do you handle behavior?

It is my goal to partner with children to help them learn the fruits of the sprit- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. I will teach and encourage these biblical principles in my students. I also utilize Dr. Ross Greene's Collaborative & Proactive Solutions. This method allows me to work with the child to solve problems they are facing! (Click here to learn more about the genius ways Dr. Ross Greene deals with children.)

How much is tuition?

Click the "Apply" tab above for this specific information. It will always be the price of the Hope Scholarship.

Will there be substitutes?

Some days there will be substitutes if I can find volunteers. (Parents can fill out the substitute volunteer form! If you'd like to volunteer to be a sub as needed, fill one out!) If I don't have a substitute, I will contact parents and let them know school is cancelled. 

Are there volunteer opportunities?

Yes! Please click the "Volunteer" tab above for specific information and to sign up to volunteer. I will let parents know when volunteers are needed.