❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering how Mosaic Yonder works? You’re not alone — here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from curious families!
At Mosaic Yonder, we love questions — they’re where learning begins. We believe curiosity is the spark behind great ideas, deeper understanding, and meaningful change. That’s true in our classrooms, and it’s true in our conversations with families. So please don’t hesitate to ask — whether it’s something big or small, your questions help us grow too.
🏫 What is a microschool?
A microschool is a small, student-centered learning environment that combines the best parts of traditional schools, independent schools, and homeschooling.
Microschools typically have smaller class sizes, closer relationships between students and teachers, and more flexibility in how learning happens. At Mosaic Yonder, being a microschool means we can adapt to student needs, focus on real-world learning, and build a tight-knit community where every student is known, challenged, and supported.
It’s school — reimagined, personalized, and built for the future.
🏫 What kind of school is Mosaic Yonder?
Mosaic Yonder is an independent, project-based high school rooted in the Capital Region. We offer a small, close-knit learning environment where students engage in real-world themes, hands-on projects, and community-based learning.
📚 What does the school calendar look like?
We follow a six-week session model, with breaks in between each session to allow time for rest, reflection, and travel. Our school day runs from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and there is no homework if students stay focused during the day.
📆 Is Mosaic Yonder a full-time school?
Yes! Mosaic Yonder is a full-time, four-year high school program. Students learn New York State standards through a project-based learning model — not by sitting in traditional classes like Algebra or World History, but by exploring those concepts as they naturally arise in meaningful, real-world projects. Along the way, they develop real-world skills and graduate with a portfolio that reflects who they are and what they’ve accomplished.
🧠 What makes your learning style different?
Our curriculum is student-driven, project-based and interdisciplinary. Students explore big ideas through themed sessions that connect subjects like science, literature, social studies, math, and the arts. Learning is hands-on, personalized, and connected to the real world.
📚 Is there really no homework?
Yes — really! At Mosaic Yonder, we believe that if students use their time well during the school day, they shouldn’t need to take work home in the evening. Our full-day schedule is designed to give students focused, hands-on time to dive into projects, collaborate with peers, and complete core academic work.
That said, homework may come up if a student misses time or doesn’t fully engage during the day. And don’t be surprised if your student chooses to keep exploring something at home — when you’re excited about what you’re learning, it’s hard to stop at 4:00!
🌍 Do you go on field trips?
Yes — often! We believe learning happens everywhere. Students regularly leave the building for fieldwork, service learning, nature exploration, and cultural experiences connected to each session’s theme.
💻 Do students need to bring their own laptops?
Yes, students are expected to bring a reliable laptop each day. We provide tech requirements to help families choose a device that can handle both academic and creative tasks.
💸 What is the tuition, and are there payment plans?
Tuition is broken down by session, and families may request alternate arrangements if needed. Final pricing for our inaugural year is still being calculated.
🚌 Do you provide transportation?
Families are responsible for daily transportation. Many school districts offer transportation. We can help families connect with their home district for details. For field trips or off-campus learning, Mosaic Yonder arranges group transportation or staff-driven vans when needed.
🌟 What are Session Showcase Days?
At the end of each six-week session, we host a Session Showcase Day — a special evening where learning, community, and celebration come together.
On these days, school runs until 5:00 PM, followed by a Community Potluck and Student Project Showcase from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Students are expected to attend, and families — including parents, guardians, and loved ones — are warmly encouraged to join us.
These evenings are a key part of our school culture. They give students the chance to share what they’ve created, reflect on their growth, and connect with the broader Mosaic Yonder community. It’s a time to celebrate curiosity, courage, and creativity — together.
🎓 Will my student be ready for college?
Yes. Our academic program is designed to meet and exceed graduation requirements while also emphasizing the critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills colleges (and employers) value.
We begin talking about life after high school in freshman year, starting with the most important questions:
Who am I? What do I care about? What do I want to get out of my education? From there, we begin exploring the world beyond school — what’s out there, and where each student might feel a sense of purpose and fit.
Students graduate with a portfolio, a capstone project, a real-world internship experience, and a stronger sense of direction.
🎓 What if my student is unsure about going to college?
That’s okay. Mosaic Yonder is designed to support all post-high school paths — whether that’s college, entrepreneurship, skilled trades, service, or something entirely unique. We help students explore their strengths, interests, and goals, and then design an academic and real-world learning journey that fits them.
By the time they graduate, students will have built a portfolio, completed an internship, and developed the confidence and experience to take their next step — whatever that may be.
🤝 Can families get involved?
Absolutely! We love partnering with families — whether through sharing expertise, helping connect students with mentors or opportunities, helping with field trips, or simply staying engaged in your student’s journey. This is a community effort.