Pandemic Pods and Microschools: Find or Start Near You

After the pandemic, American families are looking for more flexible and personalized alternatives to conventional classrooms. As a result, learning pods and microschools are becoming popular choices. 

As of 2025, about 2% of K-12 students in the U.S., roughly 750,000 children, are enrolled in microschools, and some estimates suggest the real number may approach 2 million. These options offer a hands-on, creative approach to learning that’s different from traditional schooling. 

Whether you're a parent wanting to homeschool or an educator starting a small school, these models provide the flexibility and connection you need. In this blog, we’ll show you how to find or start a learning pod or microschool near you. We’ll also share the benefits and steps to get started.

At a glance:

• Learning pods and microschools are growing rapidly, with 750,000 to 2 million K-12 students now enrolled in these personalized education models.

• There are multiple ways to get started: You can find existing pods through community resources, online platforms, or matching services. Or, start your own using a simple 7-step process.

• Common misconceptions are mostly unfounded, these models are not just for wealthy or gifted students. They offer strong socialization opportunities through small-group learning and community building.

• Whether joining or starting a pod, key factors include understanding legal requirements, choosing the right curriculum, finding a good location, and having access to quality resources and guidance.

What are Learning Pods and Microschools?

Learning pods and microschools are flexible, personalized alternatives to traditional classrooms.

• Learning Pods: These are small groups of kids learning together, often led by a parent or tutor. Pods focus on specific subjects or age groups, allowing for tailored, hands-on learning in a relaxed, supportive environment.

• Microschools: Microschools are small, structured schools with a specific learning philosophy, like Montessori or project-based learning. They're led by educators and typically operate in homes, community spaces, or small facilities.

Both options offer flexibility, a close-knit community, and an opportunity for children to have a more personalized, real-world approach to education, which is exactly what The School House Anywhere (TSHA) provides.

Now you're probably wondering how it can benefit you?

Also Read: Microschools: Is It the Right Choice for Your Child?

How Learning Pods and Microschools Benefit You?

Learning pods and microschools offer a range of benefits, making them a great fit for homeschooling families, educators, traveling families, entrepreneurs, and progressive educators alike.

Here’s how it can be beneficial for you:

• Flexible, Personalized Learning: Choose or adapt a curriculum that fits your child’s needs, offering more flexibility than traditional school models.

• Socialization & Emotional Growth: Kids interact with peers, develop teamwork, and grow emotionally in a supportive, small-group setting.

• Shared Responsibilities: Parents can divide teaching duties or bring in experts, reducing the workload and supporting work-life balance.

• Balanced Flexibility: A structured academic schedule combined with room for enrichment activities like field trips and hands-on projects.

• Student-Centered Approach & Creative Freedom: Educators can design personalized learning plans, experiment with new methods, and implement innovative curriculum ideas.

• Stronger Relationships: With fewer students, educators can form deeper connections, offering more personalized support.

• Portability for Traveling Families: Learn on the move, maintaining consistent, quality education no matter where you go. Many pods even offer virtual connections to engage with peers from around the world.

• Opportunities for Entrepreneurs: The rising demand for learning pods and microschools opens the door for entrepreneurs to create niche, scalable education programs (e.g., for special-needs students, STEAM learners, or global students).

• Innovation & Adaptability: Microschools and pods serve as hubs for cutting-edge learning techniques, allowing educators to quickly adjust to students' needs, current events, or new educational trends.

• Holistic Growth: These small, flexible settings support a child’s academic, social, and emotional development.

Convinced that this might be the right path for your family? Let's talk about how you can actually find these opportunities in your area.

How to Find a Learning Pod or Microschool Near You?

The rise of pandemic pods and microschools has opened up new educational opportunities, especially for families in rural or low-density areas. Here’s how you can find a pandemic pod or microschool near you:

• Community Resources: Local homeschool support groups are a great starting point. Parents often share information about available pods or microschools, and some groups even pool resources to hire teachers. Organizations like The Mind Trust in Indianapolis offer in-person e-learning support, while The National Parents Union provides financial assistance for families looking to form pods, particularly in underserved areas.

• Online Platforms: Facebook groups dedicated to pandemic pods are a lively place for national and local connections, offering networking and advice. Simple Google searches can also help you find nearby homeschool or microschool options. Directories like Outschool, Meridian Learning, and Prenda connect families and offer live online classes, while also facilitating local pod connections.

• Local Educational Initiatives: Some parents have worked with public schools to create learning pods, and city-wide projects like the Oakland REACH City-Wide Virtual Hub in California provide free resources to families. Nonprofits like Stronger Together ATX in Austin partner with businesses to offer low-income families access to pods and scholarships.

• Specialized Pod-Matching Services: Services like KaiPod help connect families with qualified tutors and microschool instructors for a tailored approach to pod formation. Additionally, teacher-led pods, often created by former educators, provide another option. These connections are often made through platforms like LinkedIn or specialized educator forums.

• Reddit Communities: Don’t forget to explore Reddit! Parents share their experiences and tips for creating homeschooling pods, offering valuable grassroots advice.

Found a few promising options? Before you jump in, here's what you need to know to make sure you're choosing the right fit.

Tips for Vetting a Learning Pod or Microschool

Once you've found a few options, it's important to do your research to find the right fit for your child.

• Ask about the curriculum: Does the pod follow a specific curriculum, or is it more student-led? Is it a good fit for your child's learning style?

• Understand the structure: How often do they meet? What is the student-to-educator ratio? What are the qualifications of the educator or facilitator?

• Inquire about the social environment: How are social skills and emotional development addressed? Is there a focus on peer-to-peer collaboration?

• Clarify costs: Be sure to understand tuition fees, supply costs, and any other financial obligations.

• Talk to other families: If possible, ask for references or connect with other parents who have children in the pod or microschool to get their firsthand perspective.

Maybe you've looked around and haven't found exactly what you're looking for, or perhaps you're feeling inspired to create something unique for your community. Either way, starting your own learning pod or microschool might be the perfect solution.

Also Read: Top 5 Easy Homeschool Curriculum Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

7 Steps to Start Your Own Learning Pod or Microschool

Starting a learning pod or microschool is an exciting way to provide personalized education. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define Your Vision and Educational Philosophy

Before diving into the logistics, it’s essential to clarify your educational vision. This will guide all your decisions, from curriculum selection to the space you choose for your pod or microschool.

• What is the purpose? Think about why you want to start a pod or microschool. Are you providing a more personalized learning experience? Is it to address specific needs in your community? Identifying your purpose will keep you focused as you move forward.

• What’s your educational philosophy? Decide on the approach that resonates with you, whether it’s Montessori, project-based learning, or a more traditional academic approach with a twist. For example, The School House Anywhere (TSHA) offers a hands-on, secular, and developmentally-aligned curriculum that connects subjects in real-world ways.

• Target Age Group: Consider the age group you want to serve. Are you focusing on younger children, like Pre-K to 3rd grade, or will you be covering a broader age range?

• Core Values: What values will guide your educational approach? Will you focus on creativity, critical thinking, community, or social-emotional learning? These core values will form the foundation of your learning environment.

2. Choose a Curriculum

The curriculum you choose will play a crucial role in shaping the learning experience. For a learning pod or microschool, it’s important to select a curriculum that fits your educational philosophy and meets the needs of your students.

• AEC (American Emergent Curriculum)? If you want a flexible and hands-on approach to learning, AEC is an excellent choice. AEC is designed for children in Pre-K to 6th grade, emphasizing experiential learning, storytelling, and critical thinking. It connects academic subjects to real-world experiences, making learning more engaging and relevant.

• Alternative Curriculums: There are several options, from traditional K-12 programs to progressive models like Montessori, Waldorf, or Reggio Emilia. Choose a curriculum that reflects the educational philosophy you outlined earlier and aligns with your teaching goals.

• Customizing Your Curriculum: Don’t hesitate to adjust the curriculum to suit the needs of your students. One of the benefits of starting a microschool or learning pod is the flexibility to modify learning experiences based on students' interests, needs, and developmental stages.

3. Understand Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Starting a learning pod or microschool involves understanding the legal framework in your state. The regulations vary from state to state, so it’s important to do thorough research to ensure compliance.

• Registration and Licensing: In some states, you may need to register your microschool or learning pod as a private school, while others have more lenient requirements for homeschooling groups. Check with your local education department to understand the specific regulations.

• Teacher Certification: Some states require microschool educators to be certified teachers, while others do not. If you plan on hiring educators, make sure they meet the necessary qualifications in your state.

• Health and Safety Standards: Your learning pod or microschool should meet basic health and safety standards, such as maintaining a safe learning environment, proper sanitation, and fire safety measures.

• Tax and Legal Compliance: Setting up your microschool might involve business registration, tax filings, and liability insurance. Consult with a local attorney or accountant to help navigate these requirements.

4. Find a Location

The location of your learning pod or microschool is crucial. Here are a few options to consider:

• Home-Based: Many learning pods operate from the homes of parents or educators. This can be cost-effective and convenient, especially for small pods.

• Community Centers: If you're looking for a more formal space, local community centers often have rooms available for rent. These spaces can offer a quiet, controlled environment for learning.

• Co-working Spaces: Some co-working spaces allow you to rent classrooms or common areas, providing an alternative space for small schools.

• Rented Classrooms: If you have the budget, you can rent a small commercial space or classroom. This may be ideal if you expect a larger group of students.

Ensure that the location you choose is safe, comfortable, and conducive to learning. If you’re looking for a more structured, school-like environment, consider renting or sharing space with an existing community group or small business.

5. Set Up Administrative Systems

Running a microschool or learning pod involves a bit of administration. Here’s what you’ll need to organize:

• Enrollment Forms: Set up an enrollment process for students. This includes collecting parent information, health records, and any special requirements.

• Communication Tools: Make it easy to communicate with parents and staff. You might want to set up email lists, newsletters, or a private Facebook group to keep everyone informed.

• Financial Management: Establish a tuition fee structure and manage payments. Consider using tools like QuickBooks or other accounting software to help you stay on top of finances.

• Tracking Progress: You can use a tool like Transparent Classroom, which TSHA recommends, to track student progress, maintain accurate records, and ensure smooth administration.

6. Create a Positive Learning Environment

A supportive and engaging learning environment is key to your microschool’s success. This involves:

• Classroom Design: Whether it's a corner of your home or a rented classroom, create a space that is inspiring and conducive to learning. Focus on comfort, creativity, and student engagement.

• Fostering Collaboration: Encourage students to work together on projects and activities. Learning in small groups promotes teamwork and problem-solving skills.

• Inclusive Practices: Ensure that all students feel welcome and valued in your learning pod or microschool. Create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes social-emotional learning.

7. Ongoing Evaluation and Improvement

Finally, don’t forget to continually assess your learning pod or microschool and make adjustments as needed:

• Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from parents, students, and educators. This will help you understand what’s working and what needs improvement.

• Professional Development: Engage in ongoing training and professional development for yourself and your staff. Keeping up with new educational trends will enhance the learning experience.

• Adaptation: As your students’ needs evolve or as you encounter new challenges, be prepared to adjust your curriculum, teaching methods, or structure to better serve your community.

With the right approach and resources like TSHA, you can create a thriving, personalized educational environment that supports both students and educators.

Before we wrap up, let's address some concerns you might have heard about these alternative education models.

Also Read: Steps to Start Homeschooling for Parents and Students

Common Misconceptions about Microschools and Learning Pods

While microschools and learning pods offer flexible and personalized learning options, there are some common misconceptions that can make families hesitant to explore them. Let’s clear up a few of these myths:

1. Microschools and Learning Pods Are Too Expensive

Many people think microschools and learning pods are only for families who can afford private education. However, that’s not always the case.

• Affordable Options: Some pods share teaching responsibilities among parents, which can lower costs. Additionally, many community-based or nonprofit pods offer sliding scale fees to accommodate different income levels.

• Lower Overhead: Since microschools often have smaller groups and flexible spaces, they can be more cost-effective than traditional schools. Also, TSHA’s 24/7 live support helps you make the most of the resources you already have.

2. Microschools Are Only for Advanced or Gifted Learners

Another myth is that microschools are only suitable for gifted students. In reality, they’re great for all kinds of learners, including those who may need extra support or have learning differences.

• Flexible Learning: Microschools and pods are designed to cater to diverse learning needs, with the ability to adapt teaching methods and pace to suit each child.

• Personalized Support: Smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention, which benefits students who need additional help or a different approach.

3. Learning Pods Are Just for Homeschoolers

Some people believe learning pods are only for families who already homeschool. However, that’s not true.

• Open to All: Pods are perfect for families looking for an alternative to traditional schooling, even if they aren’t already homeschooling. Many parents join pods to get a more personalized, flexible learning experience for their children.

• Combination of Both: Pods can be a great supplement to traditional school learning. Some families use them as a part-time option, especially for subjects their child may need extra help with.

4. Microschools and Pods Don’t Provide Socialization Opportunities

One of the biggest concerns about alternative schooling is that children won’t have enough socialization. In reality, microschools and pods often offer more opportunities for social interaction than traditional schools.

• Small-Group Interaction: Students in pods and microschools interact more regularly with their peers in meaningful ways, such as through group projects, community events, and outdoor activities.

• Community Building: Many microschools foster a strong sense of community, with regular field trips, collaborative projects, and team-building exercises.

5. You Need a Teacher’s Certification to Start a Microschool or Pod

Many people assume that you need formal teaching credentials to start a microschool or learning pod. While certain states require teachers to have certifications, it’s not always a necessity for running a learning pod.

• Non-Certified Educators: In many cases, parents or experienced educators without formal certification can start or join a pod. The key is having a solid educational philosophy, access to quality resources, and the ability to effectively manage a group of students.

• Collaborative Learning: Pods often allow for shared teaching responsibilities, with parents or other community members contributing their expertise. TSHA can support you with curriculum delivery, live support, and school operations.

By addressing these misconceptions, we hope you see that microschools and learning pods are accessible, adaptable, and effective educational options. With the support of TSHA, families and educators have the resources they need to create thriving, personalized learning environments that meet each child’s unique needs.

So, where do you go from here?

Conclusion: Your Next Step to Finding or Starting a Learning Pod or Microschool

Learning pods and microschools are changing the way we think about education. With smaller class sizes, personalized curricula, and stronger community ties, they offer a more flexible and effective approach. Whether you’re looking for existing options or ready to start your own, success comes with a clear vision, solid planning, and quality resources.

The School House Anywhere (TSHA) is here to support you every step of the way. From the hands-on American Emergent Curriculum to 24/7 guidance and progress tracking tools, TSHA helps parents, educators, and entrepreneurs create thriving, engaging learning environments that focus on real-world experiences instead of screen time.

Explore TSHA’s resources and start your homeschooling journey today. Register as a parent or educator and discover how personalized learning can unlock your child’s full potential.

FAQs

1. How do I find students for my learning pod or microschool?

To find students, reach out to local homeschooling groups or post on social media like Facebook and LinkedIn. Word of mouth is powerful—tell your community through local boards, newsletters, and parent groups. You can also use platforms like TSHA to connect with families looking for personalized education.

2. How do learning pods and microschools handle assessments and testing?

Assessments in learning pods and microschools are more flexible. Instead of standardized tests, educators use projects, portfolios, and one-on-one check-ins to measure progress. TSHA offers resources to help track students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.

3. Can learning pods and microschools cater to students with special needs?

Yes, they’re great for students with special needs. Smaller groups allow for personalized attention and tailored learning plans. TSHA’s flexible curriculum helps educators adapt to diverse learning needs, ensuring all students thrive.

4. What’s the difference between a learning pod and a microschool?

A learning pod is a small group, usually organized by parents, that focuses on a specific subject or age group. It may not have a full-time teacher. A microschool is more structured, with a full curriculum and a dedicated teacher. Microschools are like small independent schools, while pods are more flexible and community-centered.