Is ‘Rooted’ a private school?

‘Rooted’ is a non-profit, non-traditional homeschool learning pod that meets on a year-round school calendar setting. Children are welcome from public or private school systems as well as home study programs. According to ‘The Learning Pod Protection Act’, children from public or private institutions that participate in a learning pod can turn in documentation showing participation to be counted as attendance. Parents of ‘Rooted’ home study students are responsible for complying with all Georgia (or South Carolina) homeschool laws, however, our staff can assist with some compliance (registration with the state and attendance for example). Our parents, students, and Guides work together throughout the year to set appropriate learning plans and goals. We also plan to offer assistance in testing in the future (GA requires testing every three years).

What is a “learning pod”?

In 2021, Georgia became the first state in the nation to pass legislation regarding learning pods when it enacted ‘The Learning Pod Protection Act’. According to this bill, a ‘learning pod’ is “a voluntary association of parents choosing to group their children together at various times or places to participate in or enhance their primary educational program”.

What is an “independent learner” or “learner-driven” environment? And how will my child learn under this model?

A learner-driven environment means the learner selects the material and drives their learning pace. This type of educational environment may feel strange at first for some students or may be the freedom your child has been yearning for. An independent learner is someone who can research questions and figure out a solution when they hit a roadblock with minimal to no help from an adult. They follow instructions, admit when they don't know something, participate in discussions, and strive to learn something new.

In a learner-driven or independent learner model based on the ‘Rooted/Apogee’ approach, your child will take an active role in their education, becoming the primary driver of their learning journey. Here’s how this model works:

1. Personalized Learning Plans: Each student creates a personalized learning plan that aligns with their interests, strengths, and academic goals. This plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted to ensure it remains relevant and challenging.

2. Project-Based Learning: Students engage in hands-on, project-based learning that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. They work on real-world projects that are meaningful to them, which fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

3. Self-Paced Learning: Students progress through the curriculum at their own pace, allowing them to spend more time on challenging areas and move quickly through topics they grasp easily. This approach ensures mastery of each subject before moving on.

4. Mentorship and Guidance: While students drive their own learning, they are supported by mentors and guides who provide encouragement, resources, and feedback. These mentors help students set goals, stay on track, and develop essential life skills.

5. Community and Collaboration: Learning in a community setting allows students to collaborate with their peers, share ideas, and learn from one another. This collaborative environment helps build communication and teamwork skills.

6. Focus on Character Development: In addition to academic growth, the Apogee approach emphasizes character development. Students learn to take responsibility for their actions, develop resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset.

7. Integration of Technology: Students use technology as a tool for learning, enabling them to access a wealth of information, resources, and online courses. This integration prepares them for the digital world and enhances their independent learning experience.

By fostering a love for learning and encouraging students to take ownership of their education, the learner-driven model helps children develop into self-motivated, lifelong learners who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.

How does ‘Rooted’ plan on integrating Apogee's emphasis on personal freedom and sovereignty in education with the Christian teaching of reliance on Christ?

At ‘Rooted’, we believe that true freedom comes from understanding our identity in Christ. Apogee’s model of personal sovereignty aligns with our Christian values by empowering our learners to take responsibility for their own learning while grounding them in the truth of God’s word. Our program encourages critical thinking and self-discovery, all within a framework that emphasizes our ultimate reliance on Christ for wisdom, guidance, and strength. By fostering an environment where learners are free to explore their interests and develop their unique gifts, we help them grow into confident individuals who know that their ultimate source of freedom and purpose is found in their relationship with Jesus.

Why Won't “Rooted’ Chase State or Federal Educational Standards?

At Rooted, inspired by the Apogee approach, we believe that standardized education often stifles the true potential of children by imposing a one-size-fits-all model. Matt Beaudreau emphasizes that education should not be about fitting children into pre-determined molds but rather about nurturing their unique talents, interests, and passions.

Standardization tends to focus on conformity and compliance, which can limit creativity and critical thinking. Instead, we aim to create an environment where learners take ownership of their education, driven by curiosity and guided by mentors who encourage exploration and growth. This approach aligns with our mission to cultivate self-directed, resilient, and independent thinkers who are prepared to navigate the complexities of life beyond the classroom.

By not chasing state or federal standards, we have the freedom to tailor our educational experiences to meet the individual needs of each learner, allowing them to pursue excellence in areas that truly resonate with them.

For more on this, you can listen to Matt Beaudreau discuss these ideas in his podcast episodes and talks​ (Family Savvy)​(Nick Bare).