FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We’re not a school. We're a mixed-age, project-based learning environment. Here, students are not just preparing for the future; they are actively shaping it. Through hands-on projects and thoughtful guidance from experienced mentors, each learner can explore their passions while developing real-world skills.
We’re also organized differently from a school, so we have the flexibility to provide a rich, well-rounded experience while adapting to the needs of the families we serve. Think of it as a new perspective on education that puts kids first.
We welcome learners ages 5 to 18. But we don’t group kids strictly by age or grade. That’s not how real learning works.
Children develop and learn at different speeds, and they thrive when they are part of a community where they can learn with and from each other, both older and younger alike. That’s why our programs are multi-age, and plans are tailored to each student.
This flexible approach gives every child the space to grow at their own pace, so they can discover their strengths, build confidence, and reach their full potential. So, if your 5-year-old is ready to dive into material typically geared toward 9-year-olds, we’re here for it. We’ll make sure they’re both challenged and supported every step of the way.
We do not purchase, subscribe to, or provide any particular curriculum outside our project-based learning program. We understand that each family has different goals, learning styles, and academic priorities, so many arrive with their own plans already underway. If you have an online or hard-copy program you love, we will support it and adjust around it. If you need help selecting one, we're happy to guide you through options at the Homeschool Hub in Lewisville and share what has worked well for various types of learners.
Our team has experience with a wide variety of programs, from The Good and the Beautiful to Denison Math and many others. Since curriculum preferences are highly personal, our role is to guide rather than prescribe. We also have professional arrangements with select online providers that offer Apogee families discounted rates and support for their programs.
While we do not offer a formal curriculum, we do provide in-class academic support. This includes structured materials designed to strengthen foundational skills, such as the Waseca Language Package in our Lower Elementary classroom.
Apogee has also partnered with PragerU Kids. They have integrated our current projects with corresponding videos, lessons, and printable resources that enhance what learners are already exploring. PragerU Kids offers engaging educational content grounded in character and values, with hundreds of videos, books, and materials covering topics such as American values, U.S. history, civics, and financial literacy.
The best way to think about it is whether our program feels like the right fit for your entire family. Parent involvement is not just welcomed here; it is at the core of everything we do. Our learners are self-directed, but they don’t walk that path alone. They set meaningful goals with you and their mentors, and together we create the structure, accountability, and support they need to go beyond their own expectations.
Families who thrive with us believe education is a partnership. They’re excited about project-based, hands-on learning and open to a model that differs significantly from traditional, teacher-led classrooms. It isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay. What matters most is finding the environment where your child can grow confidently, and your family feels recognized, supported, and genuinely part of the journey.
We’re Montessori in spirit, but we go further. Our approach is all about empowering learners to grow in confidence, character, and independence as they mature.
We embrace many Montessori-inspired ideas, such as self-directed learning, freedom of choice, and multi-age studios. These principles align perfectly with how children naturally learn and develop.
In fact, as students grow older, we lean into more freedom and responsibility, not less. While many Montessori schools add more structure over time, we continue to encourage learners to take ownership of their education, make meaningful choices, and lead with purpose.
Absolutely! We believe learners should never be held back when they’re prepared to move forward.
If your child grasps a concept quickly, they don’t have to wait for the rest of the group to catch up. Our learning model adapts to meet each student where they are, and when they’re ready for more, we’re prepared too.
Our guides are always there to cheer them on, offer support, and help them face new challenges. It keeps learning exciting, engaging, and customized to your child’s unique pace and potential.
Our guides are chosen not only for their knowledge but also for their ability to connect with young people. They’re not teachers; they’re mentors, motivators, and role models who spark curiosity and build confidence. Many have backgrounds in fields like sports, technology, and other high-impact industries, offering fresh perspectives and practical insights.
Most importantly, our guides walk alongside your child, encouraging, supporting, and helping them take ownership of their learning journey.
We understand that selecting the right academic support environment is one of your most important decisions, so we partner with you to build a future where your child can thrive.
We put a lot of heart into choosing the right guides, because they’re so much more than teachers. They’re mentors, motivators, and role models who truly understand what kids need to grow and thrive.
We look for guides who:
Build real relationships with students and show up every day ready to inspire.
Create fun, hands-on workshops that teach real-life skills (and make learning exciting).
Know how to support each child in the way that works best for them, because no two kids are the same or learn the same.
But above all, our guides love what they do. They’re passionate about helping kids become confident, capable individuals, and they’re deeply committed to making sure every learner feels seen, supported, and encouraged along the way.
Self-directed, project-based learning offers kids something traditional classrooms rarely do: meaningful work that builds genuine confidence and practical skills. It helps them develop into capable, curious, future-ready young leaders.
What project-based learning means for your child
At its core, it provides your child with purpose and preparation. They understand why their work matters, and they develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills they'll use throughout their lives.
Key benefits
Engagement and excitement. Kids love exploring. When learning begins with a fundamental question or challenge, they naturally get involved.
Practical skills. Your child learns to collaborate with others, express ideas clearly, handle setbacks, use feedback, and continue improving. These skills last well beyond childhood.
Personalized learning gives students space to ask their own questions and explore what interests them, leading to deeper understanding.
Ownership of learning. When they present a project, they are not simply repeating facts. They genuinely understand what they have learned and can explain it with confidence.
What the process looks like
It begins with a problem or question that sparks curiosity. From there, your child researches, tests ideas, and builds something to show what they know. They get feedback, improve their work, and then share it with others. It feels very much like real life because it is.
Why parents love it
You see your child light up, push through challenges, and grow in confidence when they share something they've created. It is thorough, meaningful, and gives them the mindset they need for whatever future they choose.
Technology’s role
Tech becomes a tool, not a distraction. They research, collaborate, and present using modern tools, which prepares them for the world they are growing up in.
In your child’s words
Imagine your child running in after pickup, saying, “Want to see what I made today?” That spark matters. It turns learning into something they look forward to, not just something that fills the day.
Very involved, in the best possible way. We encourage and expect parents to be genuine partners in the learning process. You help select the academic programs your learner uses daily, collaborate with them to set session goals, and witness their growth firsthand at our showcases, where they present what they've learned to peers, parents, and local professionals.
We also ask parents to stay connected at home. A quick daily or weekly check-in about goals and achievements makes a big difference. Learner-driven growth really accelerates when families are involved in the rhythm.
Our doors are always open if you want to sit down and discuss skills, projects, or how your learner is doing in the community. Feel free to observe the daily flow as well, to get a sense of the environment, while still allowing learners the space to own their work.
Anytime during the year, if you want to share your story, your career, or something you're passionate about, we'd love for parents to contribute. It adds so much to the community and gives learners a window into what is possible.
We provide academic support on a 10-month schedule from August to May, with additional options available during summer months. The year is divided into six sessions, each lasting 5 to 6 weeks.
After each module, we take a one-week break to rest, reset, and recharge, except in December, when we enjoy a two-week holiday. HERE is a look at our full calendar.
Each day looks a little different for every learner. Their projects, academic programs, and family goals shape the rhythm of their days, weeks, and months. No two journeys are the same, and with project-based learning, that’s exactly what we want. Every day unfolds uniquely.
Most mornings start with big questions and meaningful conversations that ignite curiosity and critical thinking. From there, learners focus on developing their reading, writing, math, and language arts skills at their own pace, with guides nearby to assist when needed.
After that, things open up. Learners get time to relax, reset, and enjoy lunch and free play. Afternoons tend to be when real exploration happens. This is when learners dive into hands-on projects, life skills, and experiences that foster creativity, resilience, and problem-solving. These aren’t just boxes to check; they are tools for life, used differently by every learner based on their goals, interests, and growth.
Spending time outside is a game-changer for kids, which is why we aim to get them outdoors as often as possible. Research is clear: outdoor play helps children grow strong, confident, and happy. Running around outside, even in less-than-ideal weather, builds balance, coordination, strength, and a sense of capability.
It also boosts their mood, promotes emotional well-being, and teaches them how to face challenges. Additionally, outdoor play sparks creativity in ways indoor spaces rarely do. Exploring, experimenting, and solving small problems on their own help them learn without feeling taught.
Our foundation is based on Christian principles and beliefs, and we welcome families from all faiths and backgrounds. While most of our academic programs and support are not explicitly faith-based, our educational approach is influenced by values like servant leadership, integrity, and strong character.
Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that each child is a masterpiece, created with purpose and potential. Our mission is to help learners discover their gifts, build their character, and understand how they can contribute to something bigger than themselves.
We avoid a dogmatic approach to Christianity. Instead, we seamlessly incorporate Christian principles into the learning environment, inspiring students to become compassionate, purposeful people who aim to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Through meaningful work, collaboration, and a clear sense of purpose, we strive to support each child on their journey toward becoming their best self.
We strive to provide the best possible environment for our students to grow and thrive. While we deeply care about every child’s unique needs, we want to be upfront that we are not staffed or trained to support children with significant learning disabilities, special needs, or those requiring highly specialized attention.
That said, we know every family and child is unique, and we’re always open to a conversation. If you feel our program could be a great fit for your family, we encourage you to reach out. We’ll take the time to understand your child’s needs and, together, assess whether our program is the right match. Your child’s success and happiness are at the heart of everything we do, and we’re here to help guide you in making the best choice for their future.
A thriving learning environment begins with shared expectations and clear accountability for both parents and learners. Each year, our families review, contribute to, and sign our Family Handbook and Learner Code of Conduct. These agreements specify expectations regarding behavior, nutrition and wellness, respectful use of our space, academic engagement, and financial responsibility, along with the consequences that apply when community standards are not met.
By signing these agreements, parents agree to support their learner’s goals, stay engaged through daily and weekly check-ins, ensure consistent attendance and good nutrition, and pay financial obligations on time. Learners agree to treat others with respect, contribute positively to the studio culture, care for materials and shared spaces, and take responsibility for their own work and growth.
These expectations help everyone understand their role in the community and reinforce the idea that Apogee performs best when families and learners show up fully, act with integrity, and take ownership of their experience. Together, we foster an environment where every learner can grow, contribute, and thrive.
Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds We care deeply about supporting both healthy minds and healthy bodies. We’ve seen firsthand how much a child’s energy, focus, and mood can be shaped by what they eat. That’s why we aim to create an environment where kids feel their best.
When packing snacks and lunches, we ask families to be mindful. Try to avoid foods high in sugar or containing artificial ingredients or dyes. Things like candy, soda, juice boxes, cookies, and cakes are best saved for home. A good rule of thumb: if sugar (natural or artificial) is one of the first two ingredients, it’s probably not the best fit for studio time.
We know healthy habits don’t happen overnight, and we’re here to help. If you'd like snack ideas or need help planning quick, nutritious meals, ask!
Allergies If your child has any food allergies, please let the Program Directors know before the first day of attendance. This allows us to plan and make sure everyone stays safe.
Birthdays at Apogee We love celebrating birthdays and making kids feel special. If you’d like to bring in a treat, please make it nut-free, dye-free, and relatively healthy. Great options include fruit platters, popcorn, yogurt parfaits, or gluten-free cake or cupcakes. You’re also welcome to bring simple decorations, goody bags, or a fun activity to make the day extra memorable. If you'd like suggestions or recommendations, we're happy to help!