The question most people are actually asking when they ask about which curriculum we use, is actually a question about standards: “What standards do you use to ensure my child is working at the right grade level, to learn what they need to know?”

Our small school ranges from kindergarten to fifth grade. As teachers, we get the joy of watching our learners grow up without losing touch with them. They stay with us for more than one year at a time, and our atmosphere is very familiar. With a small number of learners, I’m able to know the names of their pets, their favorite color (this week), which foods they despise, and every other minute detail of their lives.

“I feel like sunshine.”

That’s what my six-year-old daughter said after her first week at the Studio School. Never has one sentence brought such relief and confirmation to my mom brain.

A few weeks back, our learners took a week to focus on growth mindset and the power of positive thinking. They learned tools to help them change their thinking and focus on the importance of the word “yet” when struggling with new and challenging things.

We sincerely hope that each and every one of you reading this message are healthy and settled into your new normal. I’m writing today to share a glimpse into our journey of learning at home, and after I share what we’ve been up to, I’ll have some tips and tricks that you’ll hopefully find helpful if you find yourself struggling to get into a good groove of learning at home with your family.