Empowering Students
with Cutting-Edge
STEM Education
We’re not just preparing students for the future.
We’re building it with them.
Call for Guest Speakers at MARS Microschool
Join us to unlock
your potential
in AI, robotics, and the sciences
through project-based learning.
The MARS Seven are the core values that guide every Trailblazer. They are woven into every lesson, every project, and every challenge at MARS Microschool. These values define who we are as learners, leaders, and innovators shaping the future of education.
Leadership
Trailblazers step up and guide others with respect. A true leader believes others have valuable ideas and builds confidence in their team. Leadership is not about being the loudest voice, but about inspiring everyone to contribute their best.
"I lead with courage and set a positive example. "
Producer Mindset
Trailblazers create, innovate, and build instead of defaulting to consumption. This means finishing the work assigned, contributing to the group, and making meaningful creations before turning to entertainment or personal projects. A producer shows responsibility by creating what is needed, not just what they feel like creating.
"I make things, I don’t just take things in."
Critical Thinking
Trailblazers analyze, question, and evaluate before acting. They don’t dismiss ideas but look for solutions, weigh options carefully, and encourage others to think deeply too.
"I think carefully and ask questions before I decide."
Community & Ambassadorship
Trailblazers support their tribe and represent MARS, ensuring both the community and the organization thrive. They know their actions reflect on the whole community, so they act in ways that uplift peers and show professionalism as MARS ambassadors.
"I support my team and represent MARS with pride."
Resilience
Trailblazers persist through challenges with determination. They keep going until they reach 100%, showing steady effort even when the work is hard. True resilience means pulling others along too, helping teammates reach their best.
"I don’t give up — I grow stronger through challenges."
Literate & Fluent
Trailblazers are fluent in the languages of our age: words, numbers, history, science, and technology. They work to become strong in each area, integrating them with confidence and even helping others build their fluency.
"I work to become fluent in all the languages of learning.
Ethical Innovators
Trailblazers use AI and technology to support learning, not replace it. They never cheat, lie, or misuse tech to claim false work or generate fake data. They understand AI cannot replace learning to write, do math, or build literacy. Instead, they use it ethically, honestly, and responsibly. At their highest level, they grow in civics and ethics to help protect others and shape a better future with AI.
"I create new things responsibly and use technology for good."
Partnering with parents to raise confident, future-ready changemakers.
At MARS Microschool, we don’t just teach students. We empower entire families. We’re a trusted partner to parents, blending cutting-edge technology with a creative twist that no one else dares to try. Our classrooms are launchpads for leadership, innovation, and ethical tech fluency.
We believe the future belongs to those who can think critically, create boldly, and lead with heart. That’s why we equip parents with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to co-raise trailblazers, young leaders who are ready to shape tomorrow.
We don’t just prepare students for the future. We prepare families to lead it.
MOST ASKED QUESTIONS
Program Structure & Enrollment
What technology has MARS used in its first two years?
MARS students have used:
AI Tools: ChatGPT, Gamma AI, Microsoft Copilot, NotebookLM
Microsoft Tools: Teams, OneNote, SharePoint, Word, Stream
Media Production: Canva, Soundtrap, Eleven Labs, Clipchamp
Coding & Robotics: Python, CodeCombat/Ozaria, Petoi robotics, Rocket Drones
Immersive Tech: Minecraft Education, VR experiences, 3D worldbuilding tools
Creative Production: WordPress, web design tools, podcast platforms
We continually integrate emerging tools so students stay future-ready.
.
Can my student enroll in coding only?
Yes—through private tutoring, not through the microschool program. MARS offers separate one-on-one and small-group coding sessions. To learn more, email [email protected].
What math program does MARS use?
Families choose their own at-home math curriculum. Our recommended Endorsed Curriculum Partner is Unlock Math. On campus, students take Algebra Chart Keepers, where they study algebra vocabulary, patterns, and mathematicians’ stories to build deep understanding. .
What does a typical week look like?
It depends on the campus model:
Huntsville Beta Campus (In-Person)
Tuesdays 8:30–3:30 at GigaParts
Instruction, project directions, and weekly assignments given on campus
Work completed at home using Microsoft Teams
Includes 2D avatar Book Club (Funcation) and VR experiments
Spring 2026 Virtual Campus (Transition Semester)
Weekly assignments released on Tuesdays
Students work asynchronously throughout the week
Wednesday virtual office hours with the Campus Director
Social connection via Teams, Blooket games, 2D avatar meetups, and early VR experiences
Full Virtual Campus — 2026–27 School Year
One live class per strand each week
All-school virtual assembly on Monday mornings
Asynchronous work in Teams with nationwide classmates
Social experiences through 2D avatar hangouts and planned VR chemistry labs and VR meetups
Curriculum, Tech & Weekly Rhythm
Is MARS a complete, full educational program for middle and high school students?
Yes. MARS provides a full academic load in Math, English, Science, History, and Technology for grades 6–12. Students learn through a hybrid model combining weekly instruction, AI-supported workflows, and asynchronous assignments designed for flexibility and depth.
What’s the tuition for MARS Microschool
Spring 2026 Tuition – $1,102.50: A transitional semester with asynchronous lessons and weekly office hours for virtual students.
Fall 2026–27 Tuition – $7,000: Supports a fully staffed virtual teaching team with live sessions in every strand plus an all-school virtual assembly..
How many students will MARS accept, and what ages do you serve?
MARS enrolls 36–48 students in grades 6–12, organized into small cohorts of no more than 12 to support community, collaboration, and personalized guidance.
Does MARS cover all required academic subjects?
Yes. Students receive instruction in all five major strands—Math, English, Science, History, and Technology—through a blend of original MARS curriculum and carefully selected Endorsed Curriculum Partners.
Will students use a Learning Management System?
Yes. All Trailblazers receive a Microsoft 365 A3 Education license (Teams, OneNote, SharePoint, Minecraft Education), which provides a secure, collaborative learning environment.
Safety, Learners & Social Life
How does MARS keep students safe—physically, online, and with AI?
Safety is our highest priority.
Digital & Legal Safety: COPPA-compliant policies, privacy protections, and legal review of our tech stack; secure Microsoft 365 for Education environment
Physical Safety (Huntsville Campus): Badge/swipe access procedures, secure check-in/check-out, and parent volunteers monitoring doors and transitions
AI & Online Ethics: Clear digital citizenship expectations, responsible AI use embedded in coursework, and monitored communication channels
Does MARS support different learning styles and paces?
Absolutely. Many MARS students are neurodivergent, tech-loving teenagers who didn’t thrive in traditional settings and often prefer typing over handwriting. Our high-tech environment provides built-in accommodations, flexible pacing, and accessible workflows.
Humanities projects can be scaled up to very advanced or scaffolded to gentler entry points, so students work on the same themes and assignments at levels that fit their strengths and growth.
Will my student have both academic and social experiences?
Yes. Each version of MARS includes academic rigor and community:
Huntsville Beta Campus: On-site collaboration, semester-end showcases, 2D avatar Book Club, and VR experiences
Spring 2026 Virtual Campus: Weekly office hours, Teams collaboration, Blooket game sessions, 2D avatar hangouts, and early VR meetups
2026–27 Full Virtual Campus: Weekly live classes, Monday all-school assembly, nationwide group projects, 2D avatar events, and planned VR chemistry labs and VR social spaces
Parents, Tuition & Funding
Are scholarships or funding options available?
$50 Application Fee (non-refundable)
$375 Enrollment Fee (family cap $500)
Spring 2026 Tuition: $1,102.50
Fall 2026–27 Tuition: $7,000
Families also volunteer one full day per semester.
Does MARS support different learning styles and paces?
Yes.
Alabama: MARS is an approved CHOOSE Act school (accreditation-enabled). Alabama students can apply CHOOSE Act funds toward our $7,000 tuition.
West Virginia: MARS accepts the HOPE Scholarship. Because HOPE covers about $5,000, MARS provides an additional scholarship so HOPE students receive full tuition coverage up to $7,000.
Other States: Families can email [email protected] to ask about options as we expand.
How can I contact MARS with more questions?
You can email [email protected] with any questions about enrollment, funding, or program fit for your student.
Our Tech Stacks
Featured Announcements:
2 NEW BOOKS!
This collection offers an inside look at bold, creative educators who are redefining school—one community at a time. Through stories of innovation, resilience, and real-world problem solving, it captures the spirit of the microschool movement and how small, agile environments are meeting students’ needs in extraordinary ways. Jennifer’s chapter spotlights the founding of MARS (Microcollective for AI, Robotics, and the Sciences) and how AI is driving a revolution in hybrid education. A must-read for anyone curious about the future of learning.
What happened
during the founding year
at MARS Microschool
in Rocket City, Alabama?!
This is more than an education book. It’s a blueprint for those ready to leave behind outdated systems and help build the future—one student, one spark, and one Lumari at a time.
Join our mailing list!
Start your journey
today!
Success Stories that Inspire!
Our personalized approach has made a real difference in the lives of students. Here’s what they have to say about their journey with us.
My son loves technology and dreams of being a game developer in the future. We are looking to expose him to everything we can involving tech so he can find what drives him.
- Tanya (MARS Parent)
Instead of sitting at a desk for hours the students at MARS experience hands on, focused, real world learning. These kids are future ready.
- Tiffany (MARS Parent)
MARS is purposeful education, with not only the vision but the thoughtful structure necessary bring each student's potential to fruition. This matters to my family because we have always been committed to finding the best schooling choice for each child, each year. As a result, we have joined many programs that had lofty visions but lacked the systems to make those goals reality. MARS has both!
-Heather (MARS Parent)
What do you like most about MARS?
Science, because we get to fly drones, and most schools dont get to fly drones, and we get to learn the physics of it.
-Trailblazer
What do you like most about MARS?
The books we read and the socratic discussions that follow
- Trailblazer
What do you like about MARS?
My favorite subject at MARS is technology. There are a lot more opportunities here with technology than in public schools.
- Trailblazer
We’re proud to be powered by partners who believe in bold ideas, student creativity, and community-driven learning. These sponsors help MARS Microschool stay curious, courageous, and wildly original.
Our Sponsors
Innovate Alabama Empowering students, startups, and schools across the state with bold investments in entrepreneurship, technology, and community-driven innovation
VELA Education Fund Supporting unconventional educators, microschools, and learning communities that put curiosity, flexibility, and family choice at the center of education.
Trailblazing the future of education:
Powered by innovation, curiosity, and community.
NEWSLETTER
Join our community
to stay updated on the latest courses, exclusive content, and learning resources.
Subscribe now and take the next step in your educational journey!
