Small School, Big Impact: Launching Micro Schools with David Richards *178

In this powerful episode of The Empowered Educator, Dr. Mel chats with David Richards—founder of ChangemakerEDU and passionate advocate for micro schools. Together, they dig into the why, what, and how of this growing movement that's redefining what learning can look like when you strip it down to relationships, purpose, and personalization.

Whether you're an educator burnt out by the bureaucracy or a leader dreaming of starting your own school-within-a-school, this conversation will open your eyes to a bold new future in education.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• What defines a micro school—and why size really does matter
• Why 80% of micro schools are privately funded (and how the other 20% make it work)
• How ChangemakerEDU supports educators in launching and sustaining their own micro school through coaching, cohort learning, and business planning
• The biggest challenges micro schools face—and how connection and community help overcome them
• Real talk on flexibility, burnout, funding, and the deep impact of personalizing education

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• The structure and spirit behind micro schools
• The different types of micro schools and how they're growing across the country
• David's insights into building a school that truly reflects your vision and values
• The ChangemakerEDU model—and why it just might be your next move