Out-of-the-Box Learning in Indiana: Inside Arrows Learning Academy with Founder Jessica Benjamin
- Felicia Wright
- Dec 4, 2024
- 3 min read
When COVID nudged many families to rethink school, Jessica Benjamin turned a living-room learning pod into Arrows Learning Academy—an Indiana microschool and enrichment program where kids learn upside down, under tables, in Spanish, and through passion projects. Backed by Jessica’s degrees in early childhood and special education (and master’s work in behavior/PA), Arrows is built for the child who doesn’t fit a box—whether advanced, neurodivergent, or simply ready for a different rhythm.
What Arrows Looks Like (K–12, with Pre-K roots)
Student-led, standards-aware: Learners choose work first thing each day, then rotate into mini-lessons, projects, and group work. Foundational skills (letters, numbers, days/months) are taught alongside Spanish, entrepreneurship, and more.
Enrichment model, small ratios: About 1:6 staffing lets teachers individualize—e.g., a six-year-old working at a second-grade level gets true second-grade work.
Choice with structure: Kids can fidget, read in the quiet nook, or grab a snack anytime—safely and respectfully—while still engaging in lessons.
Social-emotional first: The first two weeks focus on emotion vocabulary, conflict resolution, and “win-win” problem solving so tattling becomes peer-to-peer communication.
Teen program with purpose: Weekly Socratic discussions, “question of the day,” and passion projects(YouTube marine biology, media, design, etc.) build voice, community, and real-world skills.
Schedule & Formats
In-person enrichment: Mon–Wed, 10:00–3:00 (adding Thursday next term). Students attend up to two days/week; enrichment means travelers won’t “fall behind.”
Online options: Full, grade-level courses (ELA, math, science, social studies) plus à-la-carte classes like photography, ASL, Spanish, and creative writing.
Tutoring: State-funded tutoring helps close skill gaps and underwrites scholarships/tuition assistance.
The New Campus (and Why It Matters)
Arrows is moving into a larger one-room schoolhouse space on a church campus with its own entrance/keypad, wooded nature paths, and bigger playground (more big-kid swings = fewer swing debates). Capacity grows by adding a Thursday cohort and hiring from within (parents/teachers) to preserve the intimate vibe.
Who Thrives Here
Neurodivergent learners who need flexible seating, pacing, and sensory-safe routines.
Advanced learners who want acceleration without stigma.
Students who struggled in traditional settings (suspensions, behavior labels) and need a reset rooted in respect, choice, and accountability.
School Choice in Indiana (Plain-English)
Homeschool laws: Light touch—keep attendance and basic records; withdraw formally if exiting a public school.
ESA context: Indiana’s Education Scholarship Account program primarily supports students with IEPs/504s(and may extend benefits to siblings). ESA funds can cover therapies (OT, speech, ABA), co-ops, tutoring, transportation, and more—in addition to per-pupil funding that follows a student to public/charter schools.
Extra funding streams: Programs like Braintree (virtual homeschool + extracurricular funds), state-supported tutoring, and preschool/child-care funding help Arrows keep tuition accessible and staff paid.
Community > Classroom
Arrows is a tribe: potlucks, carpools, dads’ side chats, and teachers who show up at dance recitals and Saturday soccer. New families tour by spending a day (parent stays) to feel the culture—calm, kind, and real.
Key Features at a Glance
Model: Student-led, enrichment-based microschool (K–12, Pre-K friendly)
Ratios: ~1:6
Core: Foundational skills + Spanish + projects + SEL
Teens: Socratic seminar + passion projects
Formats: In-person (2 days/week), online full courses, tutoring
Culture: Flexible snacks/seating, clear safety/respect norms, family partnership
Next: Larger campus, added Thursday cohort, nature walks, expanded clubs
How to Explore or Enroll
Search “Arrows Learning Academy Indiana” to find the website and Facebook page, or email the team at admin@arrowslearning.com to request a shadow day and current availability.
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