The Resonance Lab

The Resonance Lab, a microschool located in Cincinnati, Ohio, empowers students to reclaim agency, align with their energy, and lead with authenticity—cultivating resilience, curiosity, and purpose so they can boldly pursue their unique path.

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The Resonance Lab

Program Details

Program Philosphy

At The Resonance Lab, we believe Cincinnati area students thrive when rooted in who they are and empowered to lead from within. Our philosophy centers on autonomy, authentic leadership, and co-creation—where learners shape their journeys, build resilience, and pursue purpose with courage and joy.

Serving K-12 Students

Our microschool serves K-12 students from the greater Cincinnati, Ohio area.

Curriculum & Experiences

Our microschool curriculum blends core academics with purpose-driven explorations that honor each child’s voice and energy. From Kindergarten to High School, Cincinnati students engage in project-based learning, leadership development, and holistic practices that build resilience, curiosity, and authentic self-expression. Every learner co-creates their path, ensuring education is both rigorous and deeply personal.

Our Daily Rhythm

Each day at The Resonance Lab in Cincinnati balances core academics with exploration, reflection, and community. Our microschool students begin with grounding practices, engage in project-based learning and collaborative work, and close with time for self-leadership and reflection. Our rhythm nurtures both rigor and alignment.

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Unique Values

Love

At TRL, The Resonance Lab, we root in relationship. We create a community where every student feels deeply seen and honored for who they are and who they are becoming. Love is the foundation that allows learning and leadership to flourish.

Autonomy

At The Resonance Lab, we lead from within. We empower Cincinnati area students to trust their voice, choices, and energy. By honoring individual rhythms, we cultivate ownership, self-confidence, and the freedom to pursue learning with purpose.

Co-Creation

At TRL, our microschool learning is a shared act. Education is not done to students but with them. From daily intentions to real-world projects, learners and facilitators design experiences together—building agency, responsibility, and authentic leadership.

About the Founder

Jessica Steele

Jess Steele is an educator, author of Premeditated Crisis Leadership, and founder of The Resonance Lab, a K–12 microschool reimagining education through autonomy, authentic leadership, and holistic alignment. She also created the Dear Jess app, equipping leaders with tools for energetic alignment and resilience.

FAQ's

Were here to help! Below are some answers to common questions.

How are microschools different?

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.

Are Changemaker Microschools right for my family?

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.

How do Changemaker Microschools look out for the safety and well-being of students?

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.

What does a typical day / week look like in a Changemaker microschool?

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.

How much are families required to be involved?

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.

Can my student join mid-year?

Yes, Changemaker Microschools offer rolling enrollment year-round. Contact the Changemaker Microschool Founder near you to start your family's journey today!

What is the tuition at Changemaker Microschools?

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?

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