FAQs

Who can enroll?

For 2026–2027, Big Domes Academy serves grades 3–5 in the microschool & grades K–8 for tutoring. Tutoring is available year-round. Microschool enrollment is open for the August 17, 2026, start date. Start by creating a free learning plan. We will review your child's grade level & goals, then reach out to schedule a short intro call before your first session or enrollment begins. Please let us know if you have a child in K-2 or 6-8 who is interested in the microschool, tutoring, or Summer Mastery Lab.

How is learning delivered & what is the daily schedule?

All live instruction is delivered through Zoom. Students need a laptop or desktop with a webcam, microphone, & reliable internet connection. Tablets & phones are not supported. Google Chrome is recommended.

Online through Zoom. Students attend one of two cohorts, an AM or PM, with 3 hours of live Zoom instruction daily.

*All times EST

Social Emotional Learning: 9:00-9:10 / 12:30-12:40

Math: 9:10-10:00 / 2:40-1:30

Snack/Brain Break: 10:00-10:20 / 1:30-1:50

ELA/Writing: 10:20-11:20 / 1:50-2:50

Science/Social Studies/Life Skills: 11:20-12:00 / 2:50-3:30

Is this a full-time school?

What is the difference between Academic Support & Academic Acceleration?

Yes, we align instruction to Common Core State Standards (ELA & Math), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), & state & national Social Studies frameworks.

Yes. The microschool provides daily live instruction that functions as a complete school day. Students attend one of two cohorts (AM or PM) for three hours of live instruction each day on Zoom, covering SEL, math, ELA, writing, science, social studies, & life skills.

Are instruction standards aligned?

Academic Support focuses on closing gaps in math, reading, & writing. It is for students who need a stronger foundation before moving forward. Academic Acceleration & Mentorship is for students who are ready to work ahead, build real projects, & develop independent thinking skills. Both options are available to enrolled & non-enrolled families.

How are assessments handled?

We use weekly formative assessments to guide instruction & end-of-unit summative projects & presentations to demonstrate mastery.

What are class sizes?

Class sizes are capped at 8 students to ensure highly individualized support.

Are you an accredited school?

At this time, Big Domes Academy is not an accredited school. We currently operate as a Home Education Program, providing structured, standards-aligned instruction. We plan to file for accreditation later this year & will share updates as that process moves forward.

Will my child receive a transcript or grade report?

Yes. We provide progress reports & report cards for documented assessments throughout the year. For families who need formal documentation for homeschool compliance or future enrollment in other programs, we can provide a record of your child's learning plan, progress, & demonstrated mastery.

What are the tutoring hours & who is the instructor?

Tutoring is available Monday through Friday from 4:00 PM–10:00 PM (EST), with flexible weekend availability upon request. Session times are scheduled based on student needs & instructor availability. At this time, all tutoring & microschool instruction is led by Matt Newell.

Can my child leave public school & enroll in Big Domes Academy full-time?

Yes. Big Domes Academy operates as a home education program. When you enroll your child with us full-time, you are choosing homeschooling as your child's educational model. We provide the structure, standards-aligned instruction, & daily schedule that make that transition manageable for families.

What does the process look like for withdrawing from public school?

The steps vary by state, but the general process is straightforward. Most states require you to submit a written notice of intent to homeschool to your local school district. Some states require this annually. We recommend you look up your specific state's homeschool notification requirements before withdrawing. We are happy to help you understand what documentation is typically involved. You recommended that you check the state's homeschool association or a resource like hslda.org for state-specific guidance.

Will Big Domes Academy provide records or documentation for homeschool compliance?

Yes. We provide progress reports, end-of-unit assessments, & documented pre- & post-assessments that families can use to satisfy state homeschool record-keeping requirements. If your state requires a portfolio or annual evaluation, we can support you in compiling the necessary materials.

Can we try Big Domes Academy before fully withdrawing from public school?

Yes. Families often start with tutoring to get a feel for how we work before making the switch to full-time microschool enrollment. This gives your child time to build a relationship with the instructor & gives you confidence in the model before you take the next step.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Every child's educational journey is unique. If you have further questions about our microschool or tutoring programs, reach out to us directly on the Contact Us section below. We’d love to connect!

The Story Behind Domie: Why the Beluga?

Beluga whales are known for their intelligence & strong social bonds. They are thoughtful, expressive, & deeply connected to their environment. These qualities define our approach to learning.

Belugas are natural problem-solvers. At Big Domes Academy, we focus on helping students think critically, ask questions, & approach challenges with confidence. Learning is not about memorizing facts, but about understanding & applying knowledge in meaningful ways.

Domie represents the heart of our community. Curious, capable, & confident, Domie reminds us that every learner has the potential to grow, explore, & make a meaningful impact.