Free forum will explore the innovative model
Micro-schooling, an educational model that has gained traction in recent years, has proven especially beneficial for Black students in the United States. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the model’s popularity has skyrocketed, offering smaller, more personalized learning environments.
A recent report highlights micro-schools as a modern reinvention of the traditional one-room schoolhouse, with a median student population of 16. These schools allow for individualized instruction and address disparities faced by students in conventional school settings.
Nicole Jones-Stewart, a passionate advocate for educational equity, has founded the National Association of Black Microschool Leaders (NABML) to support and amplify Black educators and leaders within the micro-school movement. “The NABML was created to unify and empower Black educators, homeschool leaders, and others seeking to close the educational gaps that disproportionately affect Black students,” said Jones-Stewart via press release.
“I wanted to build a network where we could support each other, share resources, and advocate for policies that expand opportunities for high-quality, Black-led schools that serve Black and brown communities.” The association’s mission is to bring more visibility to the benefits of micro-schooling, particularly for marginalized communities.
To kick off its efforts, NABML will host a free virtual forum on January 29 in celebration of National School Choice Week (Jan. 26-Feb. 1). She says the forum aims to connect educators, parents, and community leaders interested in exploring how school choice and micro-schools can transform educational experiences for Black students. The event will start at 7 p.m. EST, and those advocating for micro-schooling are encouraged to attend to learn more about how to equip students for academic success.
“We’re bringing together a diverse group of experts and ‘edupreneurs’ to share strategies, solutions, and success stories that demonstrate the potential of taking control of our children’s learning environments,” said Jones-Stewart. “This forum is about building bridges, connecting people, and exploring how we can create better educational opportunities for Black students.”
Jones-Stewart says micro-schools are designed to provide a supportive, personalized learning environment that prioritizes the individual needs and strengths of each student. These small, community-driven schools cultivate a strong sense of belonging and identity, especially for Black students, while also promoting equity and improving educational outcomes. Micro-schools are seen as a vital tool for addressing systemic issues such as low reading proficiency and declining graduation rates.
“Micro-schooling isn’t just a trend — it’s a transformative model that addresses key issues faced by marginalized students,” Stewart added. “It empowers students, particularly those who’ve been overlooked by traditional systems, to experience a more student-centered, flexible and impactful education.”
Looking ahead, Jones-Stewart says she is hopeful that the incoming administration will prioritize fair funding, school choice, and parental empowerment. “Education policy too often overlooks innovative models like micro-schools,” she said. “For marginalized communities to benefit from school choice, we need to be equipped to meet the demand. If we don’t increase the number of Black-led schools, we risk continuing to perpetuate the systemic barriers that harm our communities.”
She says NABML aims to ensure that the voices of Black educators are heard, that opportunities for innovative learning models expand, and that Black students receive the education and support they deserve to thrive.
For more information on NABML and the virtual forum, contact Nicole Stewart-Jones, president and founder, National Association of Black Microschool Leaders, 352-222-4018,or email Nicole.Jones@NABML.org.
Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses to jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com.