Our mission at Arbor Learning Lab is dedicated to embedding meaningful, real-world learning into every lesson, ensuring students grow into compassionate, capable individuals ready to make a difference in their communities.
What is a Microschool?
A microschool is a modern approach to education that focuses on small, personalized learning communities where students thrive. With class sizes typically ranging from 10-15 students, microschools provide a highly individualized education tailored to each learner's needs, interests, and goals.
Unlike traditional schools, microschools foster creativity, collaboration, and real-world learning through innovative, project-based methods. Students are encouraged to explore their passions, connect with their community, and develop essential life skills in a supportive, inclusive environment.
At Arbor Learning Lab, we take microschooling to the next level by incorporating farm-based education & STEAM, culturally responsive teaching, and a focus on belonging and community. Our goal is to create a space where students feel inspired, valued, and empowered to lead in their own unique ways.
Meet Our Founder
Hi, I'm Genevieve, the founder of Arbor Learning Lab, a microschool in Rutherford County, Tennessee. Our story at Arbor Learning Lab was born from personal experience and a vision for change. As a sixth-grader, I was the only student of color in my 6th History class. Learning about slavery through the lens of "Roots" left a lasting impression—weeks of feeling othered and out of place. This moment ignited a passion to create a school where no student would feel unseen or unwelcome. Over years of teaching and founding schools, the same systemic issues became clear: students disengaged from irrelevant curricula, passive learning environments, and a lack of real-world, culturally relevant experiences.
Through a deep involvement in agriculture and exposure to the dynamic world of microschools, the vision for Arbor Learning Lab took root. It became my mission to establish an inclusive, culturally relevant learning space where every student feels valued, engaged, and inspired.