Our Approach & The Student Experience
At Lighthouse Learners Microschool, we believe learning should be structured yet flexible, meaningful, and joyful. Our multi-age, hands-on approach combines technology, project-based learning, and real-world experiences to help children build confidence, curiosity, and independence.
The COMPASS Routine
Our daily schedule is designed to guide students through a balanced day of learning, movement, creativity, and reflection. We call it COMPASS—a routine that helps children know what to expect while still keeping room for exploration and passion projects.
Arrival & Outside/Free Play (8:30-9:00)
C – Check-In - Connection (9:00–9:20 AM)
Students begin the day with a check-in to set intentions, share thoughts, and mentally prepare for learning.
O – Objectives Conquer (9:20–11: 30 AM)
Core lessons and goal-focused learning. Students work toward yearly objectives with opportunities for short movement/brain breaks to stay energized and focused.
Meal & Outdoor Time (11:30–12:30 PM)
M – Main Collaborate Lesson (Science & Social Studies) 12:30-1:00
Collaborative, inquiry-based lessons where students explore science and social studies through hands-on experiments, research, discussion, and debate. Math application puzzles and logic challenges are embedded to build real-world problem-solving skills.
P – Passion Project Choice (1:00-1:15)
Students select passion-driven projects inspired by Main Lessons or independent inquiry, building creativity, ownership, and real-world skills through arts, engineering, writing, coding, service, and entrepreneurship.
A – Action (1:15–2:30 PM)
Time to actively work on their passion projects; planning, building, creating, or problem-solving. This is where learning comes alive through hands-on experience and application.
S – Straighten Up (2:30–2:40 PM)
Students organize materials, tidy their spaces, and reflect on the day, building responsibility and executive functioning skills.
S – Share (2:40–3:00 PM)
Students present their work, collaborate with peers, and celebrate accomplishments, cultivating confidence, communication skills, and a love for learning.
Dismissal (3:00–3:30 PM)
Our routine strikes a balance between structure and flexibility, supporting focus, engagement, and emotional growth. By integrating movement, hands-on learning, technology, and reflection into everyday life, students experience school as a place where they want to be, and where learning is joyful and meaningful.
Why COMPASS Works
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4-5 Full Program
Our most complete option offers consistency and a balanced rhythm of academics, sensory supports, and creative exploration. Ideal for families seeking full educational guidance and steady growth.
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3 Full Days –5 Half Balanced Learning
A perfect blend of structure and flexibility. Students enjoy hands-on academics, movement, and social connection while maintaining a balanced week at home and school.
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1-2 Full Days -Social & Exploratory
Focused on socialization, sensory play, and exploration through art, nature, and collaboration. Parents guide academics at home as we nurture connection, creativity, and curiosity.