Educator Launches National Association for Black Microschool Leaders

Unifying Efforts to Close Educational Gaps

Microschooling has emerged as a transformative educational model, particularly for Black students in the United States. According to a recent news report, microschools have experienced a boom in popularity since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Solution to Educational Disparities

Microschools address the unique challenges and disparities students face within traditional school systems. With its focus on smaller class sizes, personalized learning, and community-driven curricula, micro-schools offer tailored educational experiences that foster academic excellence and cultural relevance.

The National Association of Black Microschool Leaders

To bring awareness to this issue, Nicole Jones-Stewart founded an organization that would guide in equipping individuals desiring to aid in closing the educational gaps that many Black students in this country encounter.

“The National Association of Black Microschool Leaders was born out of a need to unify and amplify the voices of Black educators and homeschool leaders to transform what education can look like in the era of school choice,” shared Stewart. “I wanted to create a network where we could support one another, share resources, and advocate for policies that expand opportunities for high-quality, Black-led schools serving Black and Brown communities.”

Raising Awareness and Building Connections

On Jan. 29, during National School Choice Week (Jan. 26-Feb. 1), NABML will host a free virtual forum to raise awareness about the association and the vast opportunities and advantages of microschooling.

“Hosting this forum is about building bridges. It’s a chance to connect educators, parents, and community leaders who are ready to explore school choice and see how it can transform the educational experience for Black students,” Stewart said. Starting at 7 p.m. EST, anyone who advocates for microschooling can tune into the virtual forum to gain insight into how to equip students better academically. “We’re bringing together experts and edupreneurs to share strategies, solutions, and success stories that show what’s possible when we take control of our children’s learning environments.”

The Power of Microschooling

The microschooling approach not only empowers students by providing a supportive environment that prioritizes their individual needs and strengths but also cultivates a sense of belonging and identity. By bridging the educational gap and promoting equity, microschooling serves as a vital tool for enhancing the educational outcomes and overall well-being of Black students, enabling them to thrive both academically and socially in an increasingly complex world.

“Microschooling is more than just a trend; its small, personalized nature directly addresses critical issues like low reading proficiency and declining graduation rates. Microschools empower students, particularly those who’ve been overlooked, to experience education in a way that is student-centered, flexible, and profoundly impactful,” Stewart added.

A Call to Action

With the elections just behind us, Stewart believes that the incoming administration has an opportunity to prioritize fair funding, school choice, and parent empowerment.