Finding The Right Location For Your Microschool

One of the best aspects of opening a microschool is flexibility with location. As you consider the type of location you desire for your microschool program, you should develop a clear vision of your ideal student (and the kind of space that would best suit their needs), map out your ultimate space, and consider which fits your vision as closely as possible. 

As seen below, each category has its own pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh your options prior to scouting for a site: 

• Commercial/Retail ($$$-$$$$)

Commercial spaces include a wide variety of options, such as retail spaces or warehouses. Commercial leases are typically either considered triple net (NNN) or modified gross, each of which requires different expenses and responsibilities.

• Office Spaces ($$$)

Office spaces are typically pre-divided spaces with modified gross leases. While they are often more affordable than commercial spaces, some office complexes do not allow businesses that have consistent children attendance.

• Church Annexes / School District Buildings ($-$$)

Unused church annexes or school district buildings provide a great space, usually at a much less expensive rental rate. If you have a relationship with a church or local area school, you may even be able to find space at little to no cost! 

• Private Home ($)

Using your home as a learning space has advantages: there are no rents or commutes! However, there are a few important aspects to consider:

• How will you separate the learning space from your private space, physically and mentally?
• How will parents feel about dropping off their children at a private home compared to a learning center?
• Will your home insurance cover the operation of a microschool?

When it comes to picking the perfect spot for your microschool, there are a few more things to consider: 

• Scoping out the Competition:
  • Check out what other schools are up to in your chosen area and/or niche. Where are they doing well, and where can they improve, based on what your community is looking for? This can help you figure out how to stand out and best serve the families at your microschool.
  • It might be helpful to view your competitors as resources and partners, rather than just competition. Think about how you can work alongside them or offer something different that complements what's already offered in your community. 

• Listening to your Community:
  • Connect with the locals! Talk to parents, students, and teachers to get a sense of what they're looking for in a microschool environment and how you can best take advantage of the benefits of your location.
  • Surveys and focus groups can be a neat way to gather ideas and feedback. This not only helps tailor your microschool programming but also builds some local buzz and gets your neighbors involved in spreading the word about a new school opening in your community.

Note that your location is a very important component of your brand identity. Finding the right spot for your microschool is about blending your passion with what the community needs.

Keep it enjoyable, stay open to ideas, and you'll be well on your way to creating an exceptional microschool.