Checking in

Hi, everyone. Many of us are currently traveling to be with friends and family this week, and I wish everyone a restful and meaningful holiday. Safe travels!

Things are moving along nicely at Athena as we prepare for our big launch in Fall 2026. Athena Micro-academy will be located in the Austin area and I am still working on establishing a location. I am hoping it will be closer to our home in the South Austin area, but I am open to the opportunities the universe provides. I am also tackling the marketing side of things and am utilizing social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to help me get the word out. I am fortunate to have the support of my network of friends and family who are providing feedback and moral support, which is priceless. Asking for help is outside of my comfort zone, but I remind myself that there are students out there who are eager to find alternative options to their education experience and that keeps me moving forward. Our students deserve better. 

I am also currently working on a small field research project. I am a KaiPod Catalyst Program member and one of our tasks is to ask parents I cross paths with at the coffee shops or bookstores (in an un-weird manner) what they are seeking in their child’s learning and education journey. What are families not currently seeing in their traditional schools that they wish alternative programs offered? I look forward to hearing what my interviewees say, and I anticipate at least one parent will say they are seeking a learning experience for their child where they can develop meaningful relationships with their peers and learning coaches.

One of the powerful benefits that a microschool provides is cool enrichment programs.  I am excited about Athena's life and leadership skills program, aka Athena's Council, where students learn to be more effective communicators. One form of communication that is sometimes forgotten is being a good listener, and within that there is listening to understand and listening to respond. But that's for another day! My goal is to offer students a rich program that includes engaging learning experiences that will carry students far in life regardless if they decide to attend college or jumpstart their career immediately after high school. Here is an article called "5 Listening Skills That Will Improve All of Your Relationships" by Jennifer González, one of my favorite education bloggers. My favorite listening skill is eye contact! It's simple, although not always easy for everyone. Enjoy the read. 

Until next time!