Tierra Learning Community
Located in West Hartford, Connecticut
Tierra Learning Community exists because too many brilliant children have been failed by schools that weren't built for them. We intentionally designed TLC as a K-8 Microschool rooted in belonging where every child feels valued, seen, and heard.
Tierra Learning Center
Rooted in Belonging. Thriving Through Joy & Curiosity
At TLC, in West Hartford, CT, belonging is the foundation of everything. Before a child can learn, they must feel safe — so we design every experience, routine, & relationship with that truth at the center.
We learn in community. Students collaborate, take risks, serve others, & grow together — because we know humans are better, wiser, & more capable together than alone.
Children are not empty vessels waiting to be filled. They are curious, capable co-creators — discovering & thriving in community with others.
5 - 14 years old/ K-8
We meet your student right where they are.
Curriculum
West Hartford students at TLC engage with grade-level standards through project-based learning rooted in real-life challenges, community service, & the natural world. We build strong foundations in reading & writing, mathematics, & critical thinking — not through rote memorization, but through deep understanding, experiential exploration, & meaningful application. Learning is strength-based & student-driven, honoring each child's inherent genius & unique way of knowing.
Day in the life of a student
Community circle — students share intentions & check in with one another
Students work toward individual goals across literacy, math, science, & social studies — collaborating in whole group, small groups, & independently.
Hands-on projects— students work in teams or independently on real-world challenges based on their interests and curiosities.
Community lunch & free play
Real-world learning
Students close the day by reflecting, & celebrating progress.
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Unique Values
Belonging
Belonging is the foundation we intentionally build — because before a child can learn, their brain must feel safe, seen, and valued. When children truly belong, curiosity flourishes, risks become possible, and genius grows.
Community
Community is both our classroom & our purpose. We learn by doing — in service of our school, our neighborhood, & our world. Students develop the skills, empathy, & purpose-driven conviction to tackle real problems & advocate for lasting change.
Inherent Genius
We don't create genius — we uncover it. Every child arrives with unique brilliance, and at TLC, we build a community where that genius is seen, named, nurtured, and celebrated every single day.
About the Founder
I entered education twenty-two years ago and year after year, I watched my students struggle in many of the same ways my own children had — struggling to fit in, feeling disengaged, unable to connect with the curriculum or with their teachers and peers. I knew they needed something different, so I learned everything I could about supporting students who don't thrive in traditional settings.
That path led me to become an instructional coach, supporting teachers from Pre-K through 12th grade. Along the way, I've had the privilege of teaching and learning alongside students from birth to age 18 — and every one of them has shaped why TLC exists today.
Tierra Learning Community Enrollment Inquiry
NOTE: This is an enrollment inquiry form, not an application. Our team will be in contact shortly to complete an enrollment application as well as answer any questions.
Changemaker Education Event Privacy Notice
Effective Date: June 30, 2026
Changemaker Edu Partner Microschools prioritize project-based and self-directed learning, creating an environment where every student is truly known and receives personalized support to thrive.
All our microschools share Changemaker's Mind Body Soul curriculum that integrates social-emotional learning, project-based work, self-directed learning, and community engagement. Students co-create learning goals and projects in conversation with facilitators, explore interest-based themes, pitch project ideas, prototype, iterate, and share outcomes with the community.
And each one of Changemaker's microschools has a unique focus—ranging from STEAM, martial arts, and performing arts to global citizenship, nature-based programs, and more! This allows families to find the perfect fit for their child's interests and learning style.
Do you feel frustrated by the limitations of traditional schools? Are you looking for a learning environment that recognizes the genius in every child and nurtures their individual spark? Do you value love, autonomy, community, creativity, and equity in education?
At Changemaker Edu Microschools, we believe that true learning happens when students develop mind, body, and soul. Every child deserves a school that celebrates their unique strengths, passions, and potential—one that empowers them to grow with confidence, resilience, and purpose. Our microschools leverage competency-based progressions, portfolios, reflective practices, qualitative feedback, and goal tracking rather than standardized tests.
Many microschoolers can and do transition to college or re-enter traditional schooling if needed. They retain transcripts, portfolios, and documentation of mastery.
If this vision resonates with you, we invite you to connect with your local Changemaker Edu microschool founder to learn more.
At Changemaker Microschools, student well-being comes first. Through our Mind Body Soul program, we empower students and educators to trust their inner wisdom, build emotional resilience, and develop healthy mental and physical habits.
Beyond personal growth, we also prioritize physical safety and support with low student-to-staff ratios, clear safety protocols, and experienced, background-checked adult educators who create a secure, nurturing learning environment.
We adopt restorative practices, community agreements, conflict resolution frameworks, and guided facilitation rather than punitive discipline.
All our microschools adhere to local licensing, health, and safety regulations.
While daily rhythms differ by school, many microschools begin with community circle/check-in, goal setting, individual and small-group project work, experiential learning (field, community engagement), reflection, and closing rituals.
There are no required commitments from you. Family involvement is entirely based on your interest and availability. Changemaker Microschools partner with each family individually, allowing you to engage in ways that feel right for you.
Some families prefer to be highly involved, while others take a more hands-off approach. Opportunities range from casual check-ins with teachers to volunteering in the classroom or helping with field trips. Whatever your level of involvement, we welcome and appreciate your support in a way that fits your lifestyle.
Many microschools partner with local organizations, libraries, makerspaces, businesses, artisans, and community leaders. They invite guest mentors, internships, field learning, and co-creation with neighbors.
Yes, Changemaker Microschools offer rolling enrollment year-round. Contact the Changemaker Microschool Founder near you to start your family's journey today!
Tuition varies by location and operational model. Many microschool founders offer state funding support through ESAs, sliding scales, or scholarships. We encourage families to talk with the local founder about payment plans or support. To get specific details about tuition and any available financial aid options, please reach out to your local Changemaker Microschool Founder.
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