What age range does Olive Tree Academy (OTA) serve?

Kindergarten through 3rd grade.
Covering all 4 content areas in addition to a faith based devotional time and a character development curriculum.

When does the school year begin?

Tentative 2025-2026 school year start date: September 2, 2025

What is a microschool and why is OTA considered one?

As the director of OTA and as a mom raising two young children, I knew that there had to be an alternative to the public or private school options. I felt very strongly in my heart to continue my search.  At first, as an educator,  I wanted to find a way to support local home school families through co-ops.  However, after researching and finding some groups to network with, I was introduced to the microschool movement.

A microschool is defined as an independent learning institution that families can utilize as an alternative to public, private or home schooling.  Microschools provide a more personalized education.  As I talk with families the most common phrase I hear is “I want to homeschool my kiddos, but I want someone else to do it.”  Well, OTA is exactly that!

What are some key characteristics of OTA?

Personalized learning: At OTA the lessons are motivated by each scholar's learning style, passions, or interests. The pace will be determined more by the scholars than the curriculums.
Small class size: At OTA we serve very few scholars to provide a personalized learning environment.  For an inaugural year OTA will strive to have no more than 10 students.
Personalized learning: With a small ratio, each scholar can have a tailored lesson. This allows much more flexibility with how or when they master a skill. The whole scholar's development will be taken into consideration.
Close community: At OTA we strive to have a close knit community where we collaborate. Scholars, parents and educators support each other with the needs of the scholars being put first.
Flexibility: At OTA we will offer more flexible daily/weekly schedules and non-traditional academic calendars.

Is there a story behind the name Olive Tree Academy?

The name Olive Tree Academy stems from my husband Steven and I brainstorming about a name for the school.  I knew I wanted the name to be Biblically inspired. After he mentioned the term “Olive Tree” I had only known the reference to new life after the olive tree sprouting on our earth after the great flood. However, after researching the term, I learned more of its biblical meanings.
A few examples that I was inspired by were God using the olive tree to describe His plan for salvation (Romans 11:24).  In addition, olive trees are described as having strong roots, grow green and bear olives. This is similar to Christians bearing strong roots and spiritual fruit when they have a relationship with Jesus (John 15:8) My favorite however was Psalm 128:3 where children are described like olive shoots to symbolize strength and vitality.

What is the tuition? When is it due?

Tuition will be subject to change based on families needs or financial assistance available.
Tuition will average, at this time, about $8,000 per school year. Multiple payment plans are available.
There will also be a registration and supply fee for each child enrolled to cover supplies, technology, subscription cost, manipulatives, etc. which is still being determined based on a curriculum adoption.