By April Simmons, Lead Sage and Founder, A Mind of Magic and Reason
Families are increasingly looking for learning environments that feel engaging, personal, and supportive. Microschooling offers a smaller, more personalized alternative to traditional education, with more individual attention and space for joyful, meaningful instruction. It can create a calmer setting for children who benefit from flexibility, connection, and a stronger sense of belonging.
A Mind of Magic and Reason is a Southern Arizona learning center started by a former public‑school teacher who wanted to offer families a true choice — and to rediscover the joy of teaching.
What is a microschool?
A microschool is a small, flexible alternative to traditional K–12 schooling—like a modern one-room schoolhouse. Classes are often mixed-age and project-based, with an emphasis on mastery over seat time. Common features include small-group instruction, limited screen use, hands-on learning, social-emotional support, and close family communication. Models vary widely, from drop-in programs and four-day weeks to year-round calendars, and may serve specific groups such as neurodivergent learners, gifted students, or early childhood. Microschools can be organized as for-profit LLCs or 501(c)(3) nonprofits and operate in homes, churches, community centers, or office spaces.
Why families consider microschools
Parents often choose microschools for smaller classes, less stress, fewer standardized tests, and more individualized attention. Microschools also let educators create hands-on, relevant learning experiences and respond quickly to each child’s needs. In Arizona, many are tuition-based and accept ESA funds for tuition, curriculum, programs, and related services, making them a practical option for many families.
Funding and logistics
In Arizona, many families use ESA funds to cover microschool tuition and related educational expenses; amounts vary by student needs and district. Families can use ESA funds for curriculum, tutoring, programs, and tuition at microschools—so microschools can be accessible options for families seeking alternatives to public school.
A Mind of Magic and Reason (AMOMAR)
A Mind of Magic and Reason is a Southern Arizona microschool founded by a former public‑school educator seeking an alternative for students who weren’t thriving in traditional classrooms—and a way to rekindle her love of teaching. AMOMAR intentionally serves learners who need different pacing or supports: the founding group of 11 students includes children who are neurodivergent, have ADHD, are gifted, experience high anxiety, or a mix of these needs.
How we teach
At AMOMAR we meet each child where they are, regardless of grade level. If a fifth grader has gaps in third‑grade math, we address those foundational needs first so the student can build mastery before moving on. Our priorities are mastery, relevance, and helping students develop a love of learning. To reflect our values, we use different names: educators are Sages and learners are Seekers—language that emphasizes guidance, curiosity, and partnership.
What learning looks like at AMOMAR
We emphasize mixed‑age community and collaborative learning: age doesn’t limit friendships or academic partnerships. Instead of defaulting to screens and worksheets, we use novel studies, guided discussion, project‑based learning, hands‑on experiences, and small‑group work to make concepts meaningful and memorable.
AMOMAR schedule and program details
AMOMAR is moved into a wonderful new space at Second Sky Science Garden and Social Club in April. Our academic year begins the last week of August and runs five sessions through the end of June; each session includes seven weeks of instruction followed by a two‑week break. The weekly schedule is Monday–Thursday, 9:00–3:00. Monday–Wednesday focus on classroom learning; Thursdays are reserved for enrichment and field trips. Currently we serve grades 3–8, and for 2026–27 with plans to expand to serve grades K–8.
At A Mind of Magic and Reason, our goal is to guide students in discovering the magic of the world while building their ability to reason through it.
For more information, please visit A Mind of Magic and Reason’s website
To learn more about Microschools and other alternative educational models available in Tucson read My Schools Tucson’s Alternative Educational Options blog or visit MySchoolsTucson.org to explore all your school options.