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Child-Centric Education in a Digital Age

An interview with Mickey Revenaugh (Founder of Connections Academy)

In this conversation, Manisha Snoyer interviews Mickey Revenaugh, education writer, entrepreneur, co-founder of Connections Academy (one of the first public virtual school providers in the United States) and an investor in Modulo, to discuss the evolving landscape of online and unconventional education. They dive into the founding story of Connections Academy, the importance of child-centered learning, and the innovative approaches shaping the future of education. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities in online education, including the role of technology, the balance of stakeholder needs, and the rise of micro schools and education savings accounts (ESA) programs.

The dialogue also highlights the significance of understanding family needs, fostering critical thinking, and building supportive communities for unschooling families. Mickey shares her journey of writing a book on diverse educational settings, offering rich insights into how families are embracing unconventional learning environments. They touch on the political aspects of education and the potential for unity among groups prioritizing children’s education.

This conversation underscores Modulo’s mission to empower families and educators through innovative solutions—an effort currently being amplified through tour Wefunder campaign, which invites supporters to join in shaping the future of education.

Invest in Modulo

Takeaways

  • Mickey's career path was not linear, reflecting a common experience among women.

  • The founding of Connections Academy was influenced by the need for innovative education post-9/11.

  • Child-centered learning requires collaboration between parents, teachers, and students.

  • Synchronous learning involves real-time interaction, while asynchronous learning allows for flexibility.

  • Feedback from families was crucial in shaping the curriculum and teaching methods.

  • Building public school contracts involved identifying visionary superintendents and navigating regulations.

  • Trust between parents and educators is essential for successful online learning.

  • The online education market is competitive, but collaboration can lead to better outcomes.

  • High satisfaction rates are key to the success of online education programs.

  • The future of education may include more micro schools and flexible learning options.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Online Education Innovations

05:19 The Impact of 9/11 on Educational Reform

10:58 Synchronous vs Asynchronous Learning

18:44 Navigating State Regulations and Legislation

24:29 Competing in the Online Education Market

30:53 The Importance of Self-Directed Learning

35:57 Critical Thinking and Learning How to Learn

41:57 The Role of Children in Influencing Parents

45:59 Engagement Through Shared Activities

53:19 The Journey of Unconventional Education

01:00:03 Navigating the Challenges of Homeschooling

01:08:15 Bridging Divides in Education

Keywords: online education, Connections Academy, child-centered learning, synchronous learning, asynchronous learning, educational reform, public school contracts, education technology, micro schools, ESA programs, unschooling, self-directed learning, education innovation, critical thinking, community support, homeschooling, technology in education, diverse learning environments, parent involvement, learning how to learn, unconventional education, homeschooling, unschooling, micro schools, parents, community, learning environments, education challenges, school choice, educational diversity

The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Resources

Modulo resources

Organizations and Programs

  • Connections Academy

    • Website: connectionsacademy.com

    • Description: One of the first online public schools co-founded by Mickey Revenaugh.

  • Stride and K12

  • E-Rate Program

  • Vela Education Fund

    • Website: velaedfund.org

    • Description: A fund supporting innovative education entrepreneurs.

  • Black Microschool Network

  • Johns Hopkins University Press

    • Website: press.jhu.edu

    • Description: The publisher of Mickey Revenaugh’s upcoming book.

Relevant Modulo interviews and posts mentioned

Rebecca Winthrop interview

Self-directed learning

Cognitive Diversity

Nurturing Critical Thinkers

Learning is Love

Socialization

Concepts and Movements

Books and Authors

  • Mickey Revenaugh’s Upcoming Book

    • Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

    • Expected Release: Fall 2026

    • Description: A book exploring the diversity of unconventional education models.

  • Marshall Rosenberg (Nonviolent Communication)

    • Book: Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life

    • Website: cnvc.org

    • Description: A framework for compassionate communication.

People Mentioned

Tools and Platforms

  • Blackboard

    • Website: blackboard.com

    • Description: A learning management system used in education.

  • Skype

    • Website: skype.com

    • Description: A platform for video calls and synchronous communication.

  • ChatGPT

Events and Conferences

  • Game Schooling Conference

    • Description: A conference focused on using games in education.

    • Learn more: gameschoolcon.com

  • Northeast Unschooling Conference (New England)

    • Description: A niche conference for unschooling families.

    • Learn more: North East Unschooling Conference or NEUC

Other Resources

  • Moby Max

    • Website: mobymax.com

    • Description: An online math program for tracking student progress.

  • MAP Growth Test

  • Homeschool Boss

The Modulo Community is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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