Common Questions & Answers
❓Under which "legal statuses" can Ecole Schools operate?
Due to its flexible structure, the Ecole Schools model can become an innovative alternative within the U.S. education system by being organized under one of the following legal statuses:
Independent Private School
It can operate as an independent private school in accordance with state laws. Private schools operate independently of public schools and typically offer education within a specific curriculum or philosophy. Compliance with licensing and safety standards set by the state is required.
Charter School
Charter schools receive government funding while having the flexibility to create their management and curriculum. If structured as a charter school, the micro-school model can benefit from public funds. To open a charter school, an application must be submitted to the state’s Department of Education, detailing the school’s goals, curriculum, and management structure. Ecole Schools will provide support during the proposal phase for those interested in opening such a school.
Homeschooling
Ecole Schools can be organized as a support group or cooperative for homeschooling students. Homeschooling laws vary by state. Micro-schools like Ecole Schools can assist parents in educating their children at home within these legal frameworks. These types of schools often function more as “supportive communities” rather than formal schools.
Public-Private Partnerships
Ecole Schools can be organized as an auxiliary program within a public school system, typically functioning as part of a larger school or district.
Learning Centers
Besides operating as an official school, Ecole Schools can also function as a “learning center” outside school hours. These centers provide additional services to support students receiving education elsewhere (e.g., homeschooling or public school).
❓Who does Ecole Schools appeal to?
Ecole Schools appeals to:
- Education enthusiasts who want to become mentors.
- Decision-making leaders who consider the future of the community or the country.
- Parents who are invested in their children’s education.
❓What is the process if I want to open an Ecole School?
Steps to Open an Ecole School on a Micro Scale in the U.S.
Determining Legal Status
- Education laws and requirements vary by state.
- Decide whether the school will operate as a private school, charter school, or homeschooling model based on local regulations.
Selecting Location and Building Based on School Status
- The building must be in a zone where school permits can be obtained.
- Recommended minimum indoor space for a structured micro Ecole School:
- Preschool: 3,000 sq. ft. for 36 students
- Elementary: 6,000 sq. ft. for 72 students (1st and 2nd step)
- Secondary: 15,000 sq. ft. for 80 students
- These areas include learning and social environments and indoor play areas, but not outdoor spaces.
- If multiple institutions share a single campus, separate indoor and outdoor play areas are required.
- For partially ready buildings, partnerships can be established with local communities through allocation or leasing.
Approval of the Building by Ecole Schools
- Learning and play environments should be identified to align with the Ecole Schools model.
- A draft floor plan must be prepared in collaboration with Ecole Schools.
Collaboration with Ecole Schools
- After building approval, further cooperation with Ecole Schools is required for:
- Mentor selection and training
- Curriculum materials
- Other setup processes
- An application form must be submitted via the website.
- After building approval, further cooperation with Ecole Schools is required for:
Application and Registration Process
- Complete official processes such as:
- Licensing
- Accreditation
- Tax status
- The Ecole Schools system will provide support throughout these steps.
- Complete official processes such as:
❓How will the advertising and promotion be handled?
Promotional Materials and Marketing Support
- Sample promotional brochures for the school are archived on the Ecole Schools website.
- You can select a brochure that suits your needs and inform us.
- Both hard and soft copies can be produced on your behalf.
Digital Marketing Strategy
- Ecole Schools will manage digital marketing efforts to attract parents.
- The primary goal is to bring parents to the Open House event.
Role of Mentors
- The responsibility of convincing both the parent and the student lies with the Mentors.
- Mentors play a key role in showcasing the benefits of Ecole Schools to prospective families.
❓Will it be possible to have a website for the school or campus we open?
Yes, it will be possible. You will have a dedicated framework for your website. Your only responsibility will be to fill it with your own information.
❓I already have a functioning school. Can I implement the Ecole Schools model as a pilot program in separate classrooms within my existing school?
Yes, the model can be applied at the preschool and elementary school levels. However, it cannot be implemented at the secondary education level due to the following reasons:
- The Ecole Schools secondary education model is based on an individual and self-directed learning approach.
- Even if the two models are completely separated within the learning environment, there is a risk that students in traditional classrooms might gossip about students learning freely in open spaces like the cafeteria, gym, or art studio.
- This could lead to disciplinary issues and chaos within the school.
- For this reason, the Ecole Schools secondary education model cannot coexist in the same building with a traditional secondary education system.