Learning that lifts youth up & lasts a lifetime.

At Cupola Academy, education is more than academics. We practice Partnership Education — rooted in trust, curiosity, and collaboration. What families notice most isn’t just what their young people learn here — it’s how they feel: confident, connected, and genuinely seen.

Read below to explore the ideas that shape everything we do and how we show up.

Partnership Education

Learning is co-created
with youth and families.

Intrinsic Motivation

Engagement grows from natural
curiosity and real-world purpose.

Critical & Creative Thinking

We nurture questioning,
exploration, and innovation.

Community & Kindness

Our culture is built on
respect, integrity, and care.

Equity & Belonging

A safe, inclusive community
where every youth feels valued.

Process Consciousness

Paying attention not only to what
we do, but how we do it.

Descriptive Feedback

Reflection and dialogue
replace traditional grades.

Contextual Academics

Subjects are applied,
interdisciplinary, and relevant.

"The true test of intelligence is not how much we know how to do, but how we behave when we don't know what to do."

-John Holt

With the ever-changing landscape of our world, it’s impossible to predict the exact content or skills youth will need to thrive. Educator and author John Holt, a longtime family friend integral in shaping our educational beliefs, was ahead of his time when he offered this wisdom—the same pillar Cupola Academy rests on today.

Exceptional thought goes into how our Facilitators design their programs, and at the core of those programs is our Process Consciousness. Deliberate intention is placed on the words we use, the projects we plan, and the way each activity is shared. Emphasis on effective communication, shared values, and collaboration over competition serve as cornerstones for all we do.

While no community or organization is perfect, our commitment to Process Language is what sets Cupola apart. We do not shy away from tackling challenging topics or turn a blind eye to conflicts. Instead, we embrace the messy, as that is where some of the most critical and valuable learning and growth occurs—for youth, for parents, and for Facilitators.

Together, we thoughtfully contribute perspectives, listen carefully to differing opinions, and work collaboratively to find mutual ground. We continually strive to improve, grow, and challenge each member of our community to be their best version of themselves. Collectively, we work to create ripple effects that will trickle into the broader community, helping to make a positive impact on our world.

A philosophy only
matters if it’s lived.

Our approach combines the best of both worlds: a responsive partnership with families and youth, and a proven track record of skills and practices that we intentionally build into every program. It’s not a new wheel each year, but a trusted framework made fresh through youth curiosity.

Here’s what that
looks like in practice:

✓ Collaborative learning among peers

✓ Real-world, interdisciplinary projects called Applied Academics

✓ Facilitators guiding, not dictating

✓ Families actively engaged in community life

✓ Ample time outdoors on our 10-acre campus

✓ A phone-free culture — since the beginning, not as a trend

✓ Youth-led inquiry, reflection, and exploration

More than students.
Whole, thriving people.

We’ve witnessed something powerful: when youth are met with trust, curiosity, and community, they thrive. Families often notice their young people are happier, more engaged, and more confident than they were in traditional settings.

At Cupola, every youth is lifted up and their gifts are seen. They’re stretched to grow into their best selves — and just as importantly, encouraged to lift others up too. In CA’s culture that values kindness, integrity, and collaboration, they learn that their voice matters and that their actions ripple outward.

“My daughter (15) is in her 2nd year at Cupola Academy and we couldn't be happier!

She never enjoyed (public) school, but absolutely loves CA. She's rushing me out the door [at home] when it's still too early to leave [for Cupola]. As a family, we appreciate the culture on campus, the sense of community, shared values, and focus on the larger community.”

— Kellie, CA Parent

Health, Safety & Mutual Respect

Cupola Academy is committed to being a scientifically minded organization that makes evidence-based decisions regarding health and safety. Vaccines are strongly encouraged.

Our culture is grounded in mutual respect—where a range of perspectives can meet without division. We do not align with political extremes; instead, we model civil discourse, curiosity, and compassion.

Here, young people learn that respect and reason go hand in hand, and that science and community responsibility guide our choices. Cupola offers a balanced, inclusive environment—one where families can trust that both evidence and empathy inform everything we do.

Hear from families like yours.

  • “We have had an amazing experience at Cupola Academy. Because of this vibrant and supportive resource, we have been able to enjoy the best of both worlds for our child’s education: membership in a supportive and nurturing learning community and the flexibility to pursue separate interests and open-ended exploration in homeschooling.

    If you like the idea of homeschooling but don’t want your child to miss out on the facilitation, social and community resources found in a traditional school setting, this is the place for you. This is our fourth year at CA and we have seen our child blossom and develop as a learner in such a beautiful way thanks to the inquisitive and thoughtful environment and inclusive community we have found here.”

    — Abby, CA Parent

  • “Cupola Academy helps our family enjoy the best of both worlds. Our 5th and 8th graders get to enjoy the flexibility of homeschooling while also attending CA two and half days a week. They absolutely love their CA days.

    They are eager to see their friends and engage in hands-on projects that we couldn’t do at home like science labs, woodworking, robotics, public speaking and more. As parents, we are especially appreciative of the culture at CA and the fact that the facilitators genuinely care about and want the best for our children.”

    — Lucy, CA Parent

  • “Our 10th grader is in her 4th year at Cupola Academy and I couldn’t imagine her being educated a different way at this point. She has found a community of friends and teachers that she truly connects with and has been inspired in her studies.

    Each year, the facilitators and directors really support us in establishing her full curriculum for the year based on her needs and curiosities. Beyond studies, she is challenged to speak publicly, engage with adults and take low risk opportunities to step out of her comfort level which will go a long way as she grows into an adult. I could not recommend this school and community any more.”

    — Rebecca, CA Parent

  • “Our daughters have attended Cupola for multiple years and have grown so much with the support they receive there. Having a secular homeschooling program that respects the needs and differences of the young people who attend has been so important for our family. We’re grateful to have Cupola as a huge part of our daughters education!”

    — Dana, CA Parent

  • “This is our second year homeschooling, and I’m so grateful to have found Cupola Academy, where my 8th and 9th grade children attended 3 times per week. They have formed wonderful peer connections, and Julia and Mike have guided us every step of the way.

    Cupola offers a supportive, collaborative space that nurtures curiosity and growth. The focus on fostering a sense of responsibility and real-world engagement has been a great fit for our family. The community is so welcoming—it’s been the perfect place to start this new chapter in our education journey.”

    — Kerry, CA Parent

Come experience what learning can look like.

If this philosophy resonates, we’d love to connect. Explore our programs or start a conversation about whether Cupola is right for your family.

Take the first step toward an education that respects, challenges and trusts your young person.

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When you wonder, learning follows naturally.

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Every great partnership starts with a conversation. This short call is your chance to share what you’re looking for and get a feel for how we can help. Bring your questions, ideas, or just your curiosity — we’ll take it from there.

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