Longleaf Learning Studio
Located in New Bern, North Carolina
Longleaf Learning Studio is a warm learning community where young adolescents are truly known, supported, and inspired. We blend personalization, relationships, meaningful academics, project-based learning, and whole-child development to help students become enduring learners with a growth mindset.
Longleaf Learning Studio
Program Philosophy
Longleaf Learning Studio was created to bring more joy and humanity to learning for young adolescents who thrive in more personalized environments. We are a small, human-centered, project-based learning community that nurtures curiosity, leadership, and whole-child development located in New Bern, North Carolina. We support each learner's individual academic, social, and emotional needs while partnering with families and our community to create rich, experiential learning opportunities.
Serving Upper Elementary and Middle School Learners
Longleaf Learning Studio, in New Bern, focuses on preparing upper elementary and middle school learners to be confident, compassionate, and capable leaders who are deeply connected to their communities and their sense of purpose. We recognize young adolescents' unique cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional needs and help them build the knowledge and life skills for their futures.
How We Learn
At Longleaf Learning Studio learning is active, meaningful, and connected to the real world. Students learn through entrepreneurial and passion projects, service learning, field studies, outdoor education, makerspace experiences, VIP guests, and student exhibitions. We include a Mind-Body-Soul curriculum to nurture social-emotional growth and to help learners build confidence, curiosity, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose.
The Daily Experience
Each day follows a thoughtful rhythm that balances structure with space to explore, create, and grow. We start each day with a morning circle, followed by personalized learning blocks and a project workshop. Midday, we break for lunch and take time for movement and socializing. Then we engage in a community project or one of our Signature Experiences. We end each day by sharing reflections on what we learned, accomplished, and experienced.
This is the default text value
This is the default text value
Unique Values
Collaboration
We collaborate with families and our community to create experiential learning opportunities.
Personalized
We meet learners where they are to support their individual, academic, and socio-emotional needs.
Authenticity
Our learners apply what they learn by creating meaningful projects solving real problems.
%20-%20Tahira%20Copland.png)
About the Founder
I am committed to creating a learning environment where each child can truly thrive, especially as emerging educational models create new opportunities for supporting individual strengths, needs, and goals.
My background includes 25+ years in leadership and teaching across independent schools, international education, and innovative learning environments. I hold a PhD in Education Leadership, with research focused on K–12 leadership, school choice, and the expansion of educational opportunity.
Longleaf Learning Studio 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.
Still have questions?
We're here to help!