A fresh approach: Microschool opening in Danville this fall
Photos by Ally Summerford
Opening its doors in August 2025, The School at Jesseton will offer a unique and personalized educational experience for children in Danville and surrounding communities. Founded by Christa Sandlin, this microschool provides a close-knit environment where students receive individualized attention, grounded in strong Christian values. With a farm-based curriculum, the school is dedicated to fostering a love of learning while meeting the growing demand for alternative education options in North Alabama. Parents can expect a nurturing space that emphasizes both academic growth and character development.
The vision behind the new microschool came from Sandlin’s own experience in public education, combined with a desire to be more deeply involved in her children’s learning journey.
“I saw a need for alternative education options in (our area,)” Sandlin said. “With my background in public education and a personal calling to invest in my children’s education, the dream to open a microschool began,” she explains.
Sandlin’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child learns at their own pace. “All children learn at a different rate in multiple areas,” she says. “If a child struggles with the foundations of reading but excels in math, we will support them at their level and allow them the opportunity to progress at a rate that is appropriate for them.” This personalized approach is at the core of the school’s mission, which aims to provide a learning environment where each child is seen, valued and nurtured.
At The School at Jesseton, faith is not just a subject—it’s the foundation of everything. Sandlin is clear about the school’s Christ-centered approach to both academics and social development. “Jesus is the center of everything that we do and stand for. Christian values will be immersed throughout our day,” she says.
The day begins with a nondenominational Bible lesson that ties into social-emotional learning, teaching students how to navigate their emotions and relationships in a way that aligns with Christian teachings. “As students become more aware of their emotions and the challenges in the world, we want them to lean on their relationship with the Lord to guide them through difficult situations,” Sandlin adds.
One of the defining features of The School at Jesseton is its small, intimate learning environment. Sandlin believes this model is crucial for fostering personal growth. “A small and intimate learning environment allows for all students to be seen, heard, valued and celebrated,” she says. “At our school, students are more than a number on a page and a ranking on a test score. They are cherished and nurtured for who they are and who they will grow to be.”
With fewer students, teachers can devote more time to everyone, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks. This personal attention creates a sense of community and belonging that Sandlin believes is vital for student success. “We’ll build relationships with the students, have open communication, and create a loving family environment that students are excited to be a part of.”
In addition to traditional academics, The School at Jesseton incorporates a farm-based approach to learning. Sandlin envisions a hands-on experience where students not only learn about the world around them but also contribute to it. “The farm-based aspect of our program allows students to see their learning meet real life,” she explains. “Students will be responsible for the basic care and needs of the animals, which teaches empathy and responsibility.”
The farm also serves as a real-world laboratory for subjects like entrepreneurship. Students will have the opportunity to grow food, harvest crops and either sell them at a farm stand or take them home to prepare with their families. This integration of academics and farming helps students understand the value of hard work, responsibility and practical skills.
Sandlin says The School at Jesseton main focus is on personalized learning. Every child’s progress is monitored closely, and the curriculum is tailored to meet each student’s unique needs. Before the school year begins, students undergo interviews and assessments to help design a learning plan that aligns with their developmental stage. “Children will be interviewed and assessed during the summer for us to begin planning for their year of growth and personal goals,” she explains.
Throughout the year, students are assessed both formatively and summatively, with progress reports shared quarterly with families. By using standards-based scales, the school tracks specific areas of proficiency and identifies areas where students need additional support, ensuring that each child is on the path to success.
Ultimately, Sandlin hopes that the education students receive at The School at Jesseton will have a lasting impact. “I pray that the school will give our students an advantage in their young adult lives by teaching valuable life and technical skills,” she says. “These are the skills that will travel with them throughout their journeys.”
By offering a blend of academic rigor, faith-based principles, and real-world experiences, The School at Jesseton aims to equip students not only for the next grade but for life itself.
As the microschool model continues to gain traction across the country, Sandlin sees a growing need for more schools like The School at Jesseton. “With current legislation providing funding for alternative education programs, I believe microschools will quickly become the backbone of American education,” she states. “There are already (more than) 1.5 million students enrolled in microschools across the country, and these programs are essential for reaching the students who inadvertently fall through the cracks in larger school systems.”
In the rapidly changing educational landscape, The School at Jesseton is poised to offer a more personalized, faith-centered, and practical approach to learning—one that nurtures both the mind and the heart of every child who walks through its doors.
