Got Questions? You’re in the Right Place.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, guardian, or someone helping a young girl find a school where she can thrive, we’re glad you found us. The Gathering Place is more than a microschool. It’s a community built to nurture brilliance, confidence, and joy. We know choosing the right learning environment can feel overwhelming, especially when the model looks different from traditional schools. That’s why we created this FAQ section—to give you clear, honest answers about who we are, how we teach, what a day here looks like, and how to get started. If your question isn’t answered here, reach out. We’re here to help every step of the way.

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​​​​​If you’ve been feeling like something just isn’t working with traditional school—you’re not alone. Across the country, families are waking up to a powerful truth: our kids deserve more than overcrowded classrooms, one-size-fits-all teaching, and environments where they’re unseen or uninspired. That’s why microschools are on the rise—and for good reason.

 

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The Gathering Place Learning Studios (TGP) - Full FAQ Guide

UNDERSTANDING THE MICROSCHOOL MODEL​

1. What is a microschool? A small, flexible learning community with fewer than 50 students that blends personalized education with hands-on learning. Microschools are small, personalized learning communities (usually fewer than 50 students) that blend the academic rigor of private schools, the flexibility of homeschooling, and the innovation of real-world learning. Think of it as a school reimagined for the 21st century—where your daughter is known, challenged, and empowered.

2. Is this just like homeschooling? Not quite. We offer structure, socialization, certified guides, and enrichment alongside homeschool-style flexibility.

3. Will my child fall behind in a microschool? No. Our mastery-based model ensures students progress with understanding, not just speed.

4. How is progress measured? Through skill-based rubrics, performance tasks, learning portfolios, and clear goals—not just grades.

5. Is the diploma accepted by colleges? Yes. We provide transcripts, support testing, and prepare students for college admissions.

6. Do you follow state standards? We align to and exceed core standards, but we don’t let them limit creativity or personalization.

7. Will my daughter get enough socialization? Definitely. With fieldwork, projects, and small-group culture, girls form deep connections and social skills.

8. How do you manage discipline in a small setting? Behavior is addressed through conversation, reflection, and relationship—not punishment.

9. Is this model sustainable? Yes. Microschools are growing nationwide and offer a future-forward, student-centered alternative.

10. How do I decide if this is the right fit? Visit us! Let’s talk about your daughter’s needs, goals, and dreams. We’ll see if TGP is the place she can thrive.

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GENERAL QUESTIONS

1. How much does it cost to attend TGP? We accept all Florida Step Up for Students scholarship programs, which means most families have the majority of tuition covered. Tuition costs are based on a sliding scale, and we work with every family to make it affordable. We also offer optional services like transportation, after-school programs, and tutoring for an additional fee.

2. What is The Gathering Place Learning Studios (TGP)? TGP is a private microschool for girls that blends the structure of high-quality academics with the flexibility of homeschooling. We provide a mastery-based, nurturing, and future-forward education designed for girls who need something different from traditional school.

3. Where are you located? We currently operate in Fort Lauderdale, FL and Capitol Heights, MD, serving girls and families who want a more personalized approach to learning.

4. What age range do you serve? We serve girls in upper elementary and up. 

5. Is this a homeschool program or a private school?TGP is a private microschool that also supports homeschoolers and virtual learners. We offer full-time, part-time, and flexible enrollment options.

6. What does a microschool look like day-to-day? A typical day includes: small group instruction, 1:1 learning with a guide or tutor, project-based work, outdoor learning, field trips, and leadership circles.

7. What makes TGP different? We are rooted in three core beliefs: We Love our girls. We Challenge them. And we Prepare them. We focus on who they are, what they need, and where they want to go.

8. What is your approach to curriculum? Our curriculum is built around blended learning (online + in-person), AI-powered tutoring tools, 1:1 instruction, and real-world projects. It’s not about memorizing facts—it’s about mastering skills and applying them.

9. What is “City As Classroom”? We believe learning doesn’t happen only in a building. Our girls explore museums, theaters, businesses, parks, and government spaces. These real-world experiences are integrated weekly.

 

ACADEMICS AND ENRICHMENT

1. What subjects are taught at TGP? Core subjects include reading, writing, math, science, and history. We also teach financial literacy, coding, entrepreneurship, public speaking, and creative arts.

2. What is mastery-based learning? Students must demonstrate true understanding before moving on. Time is flexible, but expectations are high.

3. Do you support girls who are behind in school? Yes. We assess each girl and provide personalized academic support, especially in literacy and math.

4. Do you support gifted students? Absolutely. Gifted girls thrive here through acceleration, creative challenges, internships, and advanced learning paths.

5. What about neurodiverse learners? We support students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other learning differences using flexible, strengths-based approaches.

6. What kind of technology do students use? We use AI tutors, online platforms, Google Workspace, and project tools aligned with each student's plan.

7. What does “blended learning” mean? It’s a mix of self-paced online tools, live instruction, and project-based learning for a dynamic, personalized experience.

8. What are Learning Guides? They’re educators who mentor, coach, and teach students in small groups and one-on-one settings.

9. Do you offer college and career prep? Yes! Girls access college coaching, resume writing, internships, dual enrollment, and microcredentials.

10. Do you offer early college credit? Yes. Dual enrollment and college-level online courses are available for advanced high school students.

11. What arts and enrichment options are available? Through our partnership with South Side Cultural Arts Center, girls explore culinary arts, dance, and more.

12. Do you take students on field trips? Yes. Weekly trips are central to our “City as Classroom” model and deepen learning beyond textbooks.

 

SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

1. What is your approach to student discipline? We use restorative practices that emphasize relationship-building, reflection, and accountability.

2. Is the school safe? Yes. Our campus is monitored, and staffed with trained professionals. Our small size ensures close supervision. We have also ensure safety with our cameras and monitored alarm system.

3. What’s your approach to emotional wellness? We offer daily check-ins, mental health support, mindfulness, and leadership circles to support wellness.

4. Do you have outdoor space? Yes. We have access to acres of green space for fitness, mindfulness, gardening, and learning outdoors.

5. How big are your classes? Our groups are small—typically no more than 10 students per Learning Guide.

6. Is transportation available? Yes. Free or low-cost transportation is available to enrolled families.

7. Do you accept Florida school vouchers? Yes. We accept Step Up for Students and all Florida educational choice scholarships.

8. How much does it cost? Thanks to scholarships and grants, most families pay little or no out-of-pocket tuition.

9. Do you offer summer or weekend programming? Yes. We offer tutoring, weekend workshops, and summer programs for academic and enrichment support.

10. How do I enroll or learn more? Call/text (786) 301-2444 or (954) 694-3772, email info@tgplearninglab.com, or visit our Fort Lauderdale campus.

 

SINGLE-GENDER EDUCATION

1. Why is TGP an all-girls school? We create a space where girls can lead, take risks, and be themselves without distraction or comparison.

2. What are the benefits of single-gender education? Girls in these settings often show more confidence, participate more, and explore leadership and STEM roles more freely.

3. How does TGP build leadership skills? We offer student-led projects, public speaking, mentorship roles, and leadership circles.

4. Will my daughter miss learning to work with boys? No. Through fieldwork and public events, our students interact regularly with peers and professionals of all genders.

5. Is a girls-only school socially limiting?No. Many girls build stronger, more authentic friendships in a space free from common social pressures.

6. Does single-gender education improve academics?  Yes. Research shows girls take more academic risks and succeed in STEM, writing, and leadership in all-girl settings.

7. How does this affect confidence? Girls at TGP grow in confidence because they are constantly affirmed, challenged, and seen.

8. Do you support LGBTQ+ students? Yes. We are an inclusive space. While our school is for girls, we affirm all gender identities and orientations.

9. Is this still relevant in today’s world? Yes. Girls deserve spaces designed for their empowerment—and single-gender environments deliver just that.

10. How do I know if this is right for my daughter? If your daughter needs more love, challenge, and leadership opportunities—TGP might be the right place.