This is Indie Education. Built by founders. Chosen by families. Sustained by demand.

National
“We want learners to think outside the box, academics outside the box.” We couldn’t agree more.💡VELA Founder Christina Jones of Academy of Creatives is giving Columbus families another option, where their children are seen through smaller classes and a more personalized approach to learning. wtvm.com/2026/08/25/micro-sc…
1
105
What exactly is a homeschool collective? 🌱 A physical space where families can learn, work, play, and build community together, giving children the freedom to experience the adventure and wonder of childhood while parents find support as they juggle the demands of everyday life. VELA Founder Cassie Tinsmon of Lily Lake is showing families what that can look like. As a homeschooling family with both parents working, Cassie and her family struggled to find a place that met their needs, so they created one. At Lily Lake, families can join a child-led homeschool co-op, stop by the Play Cafe, and take part in camps and other community experiences. This is Indie Education.
87
“The future of education isn’t just inside four walls.” We couldn’t agree more. 🌱 VELA Founders Taylor Moran and Dr. Jean Lomino are showing what learning through nature and real-world experiences can look like in Farm School’d docuseries. miningstockeducation.com/202…
2
5
118
Find VELA on the road!📍 We're excited to sponsor two amazing events and can't wait to connect with the Indie Education community. See you there!
1
97
Web or mobile? You choose. 💻📱 Families can explore Indie Education options, and founders can connect, build, and tap into a VELA community of thousands, wherever works best for them. Visit vela.org to log in on the web or download the VELA app today.
93
Florida families are gaining more freedom to choose the education that works for their children. VELA Founder Shiren Rattigan of Colossal Academy is showing what’s possible when learning is flexible, personalized, and shaped around students. This is Indie Education. 🔗 yahoo.com/news/politics/arti…
1
1
86
Every student learns differently. School should reflect that. VELA Founder Carolyn Wassell is putting that into practice at Las Vegas Enrichment Academy, where students' personalized academics are paired with yoga, meditation, hands-on learning, and whole-child practices. This is Indie Education. 🔗 yahoo.com/news/us/articles/l…
1
110
After attending VELA Connect D.C., Kym Kent shares four key takeaways: practical tools, meaningful connections, renewed energy, and a stronger collective voice for Indie Education. Chicago + Austin, you’re next.📍Registration is NOW open, and spots are limited. Read Kym’s full takeaways, then register to join us at an upcoming VELA Connect: edentrepreneur.org/articles/…
1
113
Congratulations to the VELA Founders named 2026 Yass Prize Contenders! 👏 Creative Minds Microschool, Kidvation Global, Learning Lounge, @moreana_az, @rcahybrid, and Star Lab are building education differently, creating innovative learning models shaped by the unique needs of children and families. We’re proud to see VELA Founders recognized among education entrepreneurs expanding what’s possible for learners across the country.
1
6
187
The VELA App Is Now Available on the Web! Same VELA app, now with more ways to connect. Choose what works for you: web or mobile. Visit vela.org and select ‘Log in’ to get started.
1
114
This is it. Families aren't waiting for someone else to build what their kids need. They are building it themselves. Educational freedom is inspiring institution builders, and we're proud to support 5,600+ of them.
I recently had the opportunity to give a commencement address to homeschoolers and their parents. We're good at explaining why families leave schools. We should spend more time explaining what educational freedom is ultimately for. thenext30years.substack.com/…
1
88
Back-to-school can be a chance to make a different choice. 📚 VELA Founder Emma Rodriguez left traditional education to create Lighthouse Christian Academy, giving families another option between traditional school and homeschooling. Sometimes finding the right fit means choosing a new path. 🔗 cato.org/blog/friday-feature…
1
94
What an incredible way to kick off this year's VELA Connect series. ✨ For two days, founders from across the country came together to exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, and celebrate the work happening in communities nationwide. The momentum created here doesn't end when the event does. It travels home with every founder, fueling the next chapter of the Indie Education movement. Thank you to everyone who made Washington, D.C. such a memorable first stop. We'll see you at the next VELA Connect. This is Indie Education.
2
101
Meet the VELA Connect D.C. speakers for: Built to Last — The Governance of Indie Education. What does it take to build an education model that stands the test of time? This panel will explore how thoughtful governance, founder autonomy, and family trust create strong, sustainable learning communities built to last.
2
2
237
Indie Education is reaching more families every day. 🌎 We had an amazing time at the Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven, Michigan, connecting with families who are discovering education beyond the traditional classroom. Whether they were already homeschooling or just beginning to explore new possibilities, conversations centered around one thing: finding the right fit for every child. Thank you to everyone who stopped by the VELA booth, downloaded the free VELA app, and joined us in building a future where every family can choose an education that truly fits.
2
111
7 days until VELA Connect! 🤗 It's almost time to gather in Washington, D.C. The agenda is here, complete with the full two-day schedule. We can't wait to bring founders together for two days of conversations, connections, and ideas that will shape the future of Indie Education. See you August 4–5.
2
252
Learning doesn't just happen in classrooms. It happens on the road, through curiosity, and by asking big questions. In Sophie's Great American ELECTRIC Road Trip, VELA Founder and scientist-comedian Sophie Shrand takes viewers of all ages on a 7,000-mile journey across 25 states, exploring the science of sustainable travel, meeting innovators, and discovering the people building a brighter future. Whether you're a parent, educator, or young explorer, this is a series that sparks curiosity, inspires conversation, and reminds us that the world is one of our greatest classrooms. Tune in every Monday for new episodes on YouTube and the PBS Nature app! bit.ly/4x0X1tX
1
84
Military families shouldn't have to navigate a new set of homeschooling rules every time duty calls them to a new state. VELA Founder Natalie Mack, founder and Executive Director of the Military Homeschoolers Association, is advocating for the COMPASS Act, legislation that would help military homeschool families maintain educational continuity across state lines while reducing unnecessary administrative burdens during military relocations. Read the full story 👉 heartlandernews.com/homescho…
1
4
196