Delve into the inspiring story and innovative approach of Alpha School, a new institution opening in Miami in August 2024. With a proven track record from Austin, Texas, Alpha School is set to transform the local educational landscape. We interviewed founder MacKenzie Price to address the pressing questions from our readers. Discover how her vision revolutionized traditional education with the 2 Hour Learning model, enabling students to learn twice as much in a third of the time. Explore Alpha’s core principles that foster a love for learning, accelerated academic progress, and essential life skills. Gain insights into their focus on emotional intelligence, resilience, and the unique role of guides in place of traditional teachers.
Can you tell us about the founding story of Alpha School and what inspired its creation?
When MacKenzie Price’s daughters came home bored with school, she vowed to change education. Traditional schools are outdated, so she envisioned transforming classrooms to unleash student potential. Her 2 Hour Learning model asked, “What if students could learn twice as much in a third of the time?” and made it a reality. A radical idea from Alpha School Austin is now leading to a game-changing school in Miami.
What are the core principles and values that guide Alpha School’s educational philosophy?
Alpha School is built on three core commitments. Students will –
- Love School: Engagement and self-agency foster a love for learning.
- Learn 2x Faster: AI technology and adaptive apps allow students to crush academics in just 2 hours.
- Master Life Skills: Afternoons focus on activities that teach critical thinking, teamwork, financial literacy, public speaking, and much more.
- By motivating students with the right rewards and providing coursework at the right level, we create an environment where they can unlock their limitless potential.
Alpha Austin has gained attention for its innovative approach to education. How will you adapt this approach for the Miami community?
Alpha Miami will follow the successful 2 Hour Learning model with AI-driven education and guide-based support. We’ll tailor afternoon programs to reflect Miami’s unique culture, incorporating local partnerships and projects to make learning relevant and engaging.
What led to the decision to bring Alpha School to Miami?
Miami’s dynamic, diverse population demands innovative education. Establishing Alpha Miami offers our model to more students, providing an inspiring alternative to traditional schools. The interest from Miami families for 2 Hour Learning has been palpable; we can’t wait to transform the educational landscape!
Alpha boasts that students learn 2x faster. What teaching methodologies or strategies contribute to this accelerated learning?
Our accelerated learning is driven by
- Adaptive Learning Apps: AI-powered apps provide personalized, 1:1 learning.
- Mastery-Based Approach: Ensures thorough understanding before progressing.
- Holistic Progress Overview: Instills confidence and clarity in students. Guides provide mentorship, making learning fun and engaging.
- By blending technology with personal guidance, we allow for deeper learning, faster progression, and critical life skills development.
How will Alpha School Miami integrate life skills such as financial literacy, public speaking, and social skills into its curriculum?
Life skills are central to Alpha’s curriculum. Each afternoon, students engage in workshops and projects to develop practical skills. The Test2Pass system ensures mastery with measurable growth through specific skill tests. Financial literacy is taught via interactive, real-world activities. Public speaking is enhanced through presentations and group discussions, while social skills are developed through collaborative projects and community engagement. Highlights include the “Manage an Airbnb” workshop, where students run their own Airbnb business, and the “F1 Coding” workshop, where they code race simulations, gaining advanced programming skills and problem-solving abilities.
How does Alpha School Miami support students’ emotional intelligence (EQ) and resilience through its programs?
We emphasize EQ and resilience through action and environment. Guides provide emotional support, fostering a growth mindset. Workshops on mindfulness, empathy, and stress management equip students for emotional challenges. The Test2Pass system covers emotional and social skills, promoting self-awareness. Students thrive with access to global EQ coordinators. At Alpha, students are prepared for long-term success.
Tell us more about the decision to have guides vs. teachers and the qualifications to be a guide.
Alpha guides are mentors and coaches, not traditional teachers. Their primary role is to support and motivate students, helping them set and achieve their goals. United by a passion for education, guides come from diverse backgrounds and undergo rigorous training for academic and emotional support. Guides fulfill their original teaching mission: making a meaningful impact on students’ lives and bolstering their potential. They track student growth, offering long-term, self-sustaining solutions. By adding a human dimension to our technology, guides provide personalized attention and care, helping students develop resilience, self-agency, and a love for learning.
Since the school’s core learning is through AI, what would you say to a parent who is leery of AI or doesn’t understand it fully?
New technologies often spark fear, but they are essential for progress. Embracing AI in education optimizes learning and growth. AI identifies learning gaps, provides solutions, and offers 1:1 attention. Moreover, ombined with Guides’ human touch, provides an exceptional schooling experience. At Alpha, students learn at least 2x faster than traditional methods and score in the top 1% nationally, growing in ways traditional methods can’t match and mastering essential future skills.
Can you describe some of the extracurricular activities and enrichment programs offered at Alpha School Miami?
Alpha Miami offers diverse extracurricular activities and enrichment programs, including robotics, coding, arts, music, sports, environmental conservation, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. These programs are fun and educational, preparing students for success in all areas by developing life skills.
What type of children thrive best with the Alpha system of learning?
Alpha School’s personalized system helps curious, enthusiastic, and eager students thrive. The 2 Hour Learning model uses AI technology, personalized learning paths, and life skills development to provide a limitless environment. It benefits students at any level, helping those behind improve and allowing gifted students to advance without grade restrictions.
What are your aspirations and goals for Alpha School Miami in the coming years, and how do you envision its impact on the Miami educational landscape?
Our goal for Alpha Miami is to create a thriving community of learners who excel academically and are equipped with essential life skills. We aim to make a lasting impact by preparing students to be future-ready leaders, giving them the support they need to succeed. By harnessing technology and guide support, we will transform education, showing that love for learning and high achievement go hand in hand.
Are there any programs available for families that may have already committed elsewhere?
Yes, Alpha Miami offers flexible enrollment options, including rolling admissions and mid-year transfers, ensuring all interested students can join and benefit from our unique educational approach.
