The Modern Schoolhouse strives to empower all children, families and communities to the highest level of academic achievement through rigor and collaboration with an emphasis on an integrated literacy S.T.E.M. model.
"To prepare every child to become productive, responsible, creative, compassionate members of society while challenging their minds and fostering a desire to learn".
The Modern Schoolhouse strives to empower all children, families and communities to the highest level of academic achievement through rigor and collaboration with an emphasis on an integrated literacy S.T.E.M. model.
"To prepare every child to become productive, responsible, creative, compassionate members of society while challenging their minds and fostering a desire to learn".
The Modern Schoolhouse was founded in 2023 by Stacey Shirk. Stacey spent 18 years teaching early education in the public school system in Phoenix, Arizona. During her career, she taught 1st and 2nd grade students of all levels, including 16 years as a "gifted cluster" teacher. Stacey has a strong belief that a child's early years in education are the most important. A solid foundation must be built in order for students to have a successful educational journey.
Stacey has taught S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. with her students for the last 15 years, creating much of her own curriculum along the way to keep the students engaged and learning. She includes literacy in her S.T.E.M. lessons, providing a broader educational experience for the students.
In 2014, Stacey was recognized for her outstanding achievements in the classroom and community by being presented with the Arizona Silver Apple award sponsored by AZFamily News Channel 3. The award is given to teachers for making a difference in their students' lives and going above and beyond in education. Stacey was nominated for the award by her 1st grade student, TJ. Today, that 1st Grader is a 16 year old High School student, preparing to graduate as a Sophomore. A testament to her excellent skills and dedication to her students.
Stacey retired from the public schools but knew her journey as an educator was not finished. She decided she could make a greater impact by bringing her knowledge and skills to the private education sector. She converted part of her home into a one room schoolhouse, creating a unique educational experience for her students, and thus "The Modern Schoolhouse Microschool" was born.