What is a Microschool? (Part 2a): Starting One

Welcome to Hot Topics! In this episode, we’re thrilled to feature Shartajeyé Wright-Fitzhugh, the visionary founder of a newly established microschool known as KIDmistry®. We’ll explore the inspiration behind her decision to create this innovative learning environment, the specific age group she caters to, and the unique setup of KIDmistry®. Additionally, we’ll discuss the significant influence that microschools have on the private school sector.Shartajeyé created her school as a response to the Texas government's systematic defunding of public schools while increasing funding for private schools. She shares the rich history of microschools, emphasizing their crucial role in providing educational opportunities to underserved communities, a practice that dates back to the Reconstruction era. KIDmistry® is dedicated to children aged 0-5, focusing on STEM education and literacy through engaging play and hands-on experiences. With operating hours from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, the school thoughtfully incorporates structured playtime, nutritious meals, and a variety of learning activities throughout the day.Driven by a mission to help black and brown children overcome existing educational disparities, Shartajeyé's committed to ensuring that every student receives quality instruction and the support they need to thrive. As she works toward obtaining accreditation for KIDmistry®, the school’s set to officially launch in August 2025. Shartajeyé also encourages others to consider starting their own microschools or educational initiatives, advocating for fresh and creative approaches to learning. Join us for this enlightening discussion about the future of education and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead!Who is Shartajeyé Wright-Fitzhugh?Shartajeyé "Taji" Wright-Fitzhugh is a TEDx speaker, STEM educator, and founder of Kidmistry®, an educational consulting firm helping schools and teachers close opportunity gaps through innovation and equity. A former science teacher, district leader, and co-founder of a personalized learning middle school, she knows firsthand what it takes to reimagine education from the inside out. Through her platform "Taji – The Teacher’s Teacher," she equips new educators with practical tools and culturally responsive strategies that transform “Wait, what?” moments into powerful “Aha!” breakthroughs in the classroom. Taji holds a B.S. in Biology from Texas Southern University and dual master’s degrees from Southern Methodist University in STEM Education and Urban School Leadership. She’s on a mission to ensure that every child—regardless of ZIP code—gets the access, agency, and real-world skills to thrive. Whether she’s coaching teachers, speaking on stages, or building microschool models rooted in justice, Taji leads with purpose, faith, and fire.You can find Shartajeyé:On the web: https://kidmistry.com/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556770829972 On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tajiteaches/ On Threads: https://www.threads.com/@tajiteaches On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shartajeyewright/ On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaJiTheTeachersTeacher On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tajiteachesWatch this episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/auUphdsbTKwRate this episode on IMDB: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt39147804/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk********************************************Follow Gabrielle Crichlow: On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabrielle.crichlowOn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielle.crichlowOn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-crichlow-92587a360Follow A Step Ahead Tutoring Services:On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astepaheadtutoringservicesOn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astepaheadtutoringservicesOn X: https://www.twitter.com/ASATS2013 On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a-step-ahead-tutoring-services/On YouTube: https://youtube.com/@astepaheadtutoringservicesOn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asats2013On Eventbrite: https://astepaheadtutoringservices.eventbrite.com Visit us on the web: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com   Sign up for our email list: https://squareup.com/outreach/a41DaE/subscribe Sign up for our text list: https://tapit.us/cipPJO Check out our entire "Hot Topics!" podcast: https://www.astepaheadtutoringservices.com/hottopicspodcastSupport us:Cash App: https://cash.app/$ASATS2013PayPal: https://paypal.me/ASATS2013Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/ASATS2013Zelle: [email protected] a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hot-topics--5600971/supportOriginal date of episode: July 20, 2025