About Us
Transforming Education: A Personal Journey to Child-Centered Learning
Discover how personal experiences and a passion for meaningful education led to the creation of Alma Learning Lab.
From Personal Struggles to Educational Transformation
When my oldest daughter was in second grade, Tennessee introduced state testing for her age group. Those two weeks were a nightmare for our family. I saw my bright, curious seven-year-old, who should have been carefree and eager to learn, become riddled with anxiety over a test that didn’t matter to her future. Then, she ended up scoring perfectly—but at what cost? I couldn’t shake the image of my little girl, stressed and exhausted, and I knew something needed to change.
Recognizing the Flaws in Traditional Education
As a former teacher, I’ve always believed in the power of education to shape lives. But I also know the struggles teachers face: they aren’t trusted to design their own curriculum, and they aren’t paid enough for their expertise. The system doesn’t just fail teachers; it fails students. I hated seeing children sit quietly all day, glued to their desks, while I, as an adult in the corporate world, got to stand, move, and work outside more than they did. I knew there had to be a better way—one where kids could explore their passions, learn real-world skills, and just be kids.
When I left teaching in 2020 and transitioned to the corporate world, I experienced something transformational: I was valued. My knowledge and skills were appreciated, and I earned a salary that reflected my worth. This realization drove me to help other teachers find opportunities outside the classroom. But as my own children started school, I couldn’t stop thinking about education. The idea of a microschool kept tugging at my heart—especially as I watched my kids and other students go through the same struggles I had seen as a teacher. I imagined a space where children could learn through curiosity and collaboration, where they could thrive emotionally and intellectually without the stress of standardized tests.
Creating Alma Learning Lab: A New Educational Paradigm
That vision became Alma Learning Lab. I created this microschool to provide children with a truly meaningful education—one rooted in their passions, interests, and natural curiosity. At Alma, we combine hands-on learning with real-world skills, ensuring that students not only excel academically but also grow as individuals. Our focus is on creating a supportive, engaging environment where kids can move, explore, and connect with one another while developing a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
Our approach nurtures the whole child by integrating real-world experiences, like preparing meals and maintaining their workspace. These daily practices ensure students develop not only academically, but also as capable, confident individuals.
Join Us in Reimagining Your Child's Education
I know that choosing a new school for your child is a big decision. It’s scary, it’s uncertain, and it’s deeply personal. I want you to know that at Alma Learning Lab, your child will be seen, heard, and valued as an individual. Together, we can create an educational experience that nurtures their unique talents and helps them flourish in every aspect of life. Join me in reimagining education for our children—because they deserve nothing less.
The Meaning Behind Alma Learning Lab and Our Mandala Logo
I chose the name "Alma" because it embodies the soul and heart of learning. In Spanish, "alma" means "soul," and at Alma Learning Lab, we believe that true education must nurture not just the mind, but also the soul of every child. Our mission is to create a learning environment where students feel valued, curious, and empowered to thrive.
Our mandala-inspired logo reflects this vision of harmony and growth. Mandalas symbolize balance, creativity, and the interconnectedness of life—qualities we strive to foster in our students every day. Each layer of the mandala represents a core aspect of our educational approach: curiosity, collaboration, creativity, and real-world application.
Together, "Alma" and the mandala represent a holistic, child-centered philosophy of education where learning is rooted in each child's unique strengths and passions. At Alma Learning Lab, we’re not just teaching; we’re guiding students to grow academically, emotionally, and personally.
