Inside Sunrise Learning Academy: An Indiana Microschool Built on Personalized Learning, Push-In Therapies & ESA Support
- Felicia Wright
- Dec 4, 2024
- 2 min read
In this Founder to Founder episode, Felicia Wright sits down with NaShawn “Nani” Edwards, founder of Sunrise Learning Academy in Indiana—a faith-based, home-like microschool designed for mixed-age learners. Sunrise blends personalized learning plans, trauma-informed practice, and push-in therapeutic services with a calm, community-first culture. The result: kids who feel safe, seen, and academically supported—at their own pace.
Why Sunrise Learning Academy Exists
As a foster and biological mom of six (plus many foster kids), and a healthcare/clinical informatics professional, NaShawn saw the gap between what kids needed and what rigid systems delivered. Indiana’s expanding school choice landscape created room for non-accredited private schools, and Sunrise opened to meet families where they are—academically and emotionally.
What “Personalized Learning” Looks Like
Data-informed baselines: Tools like DIBELS and i-Ready help pinpoint each child’s current level (not just “grade level”).
Standards-aligned, pace-right progress: Sunrise maps goals to Indiana state standards while honoring individual readiness (kindergarten readiness when needed, acceleration when appropriate).
Whole-child adjustments: If a student needs a nap after fine-motor work or a different pencil grip, Sunrise adapts in the moment.
A Trauma-Informed, Home-Like Environment
Calm, cozy space that lowers stress and builds trust (“blankets welcome” is part of the vibe).
Small ratios (targeting ~7:1) and mixed-age learning for organic mentoring and flexibility.
Character & faith integration (morning pledge/devotions; respectful culture—“yes ma’am/no ma’am”).
Push-In Services (So Learning Isn’t Interrupted)
Sunrise welcomes third-party providers (OT, ABA, etc.) during the school day, using agreements that safeguard student privacy and continuity. Kids don’t return to class “behind” because personalized plans pick up exactly where they left off.
Schedule, Structure & Support
School day: ~9:00–3:00 (movement, prayer/devotions, academics, and breaks timed to student rhythms).
Wrap around care: Before/after-school via Sunrise’s connected daycare.
Community experts & volunteers: Music, PE, wellness/nutrition, and more—because real-world learning sticks.
Funding: ESA & What’s Next
Indiana ESA (currently focused on students with IEPs/504s and certain sibling criteria) helps cover costs like tutoring, transportation, and curriculum licenses.
Sunrise is exploring future facility options; for now, the home-like setting is intentional and effective.
Who Thrives at Sunrise
Students who need individual pacing, sensory-aware routines, or therapeutic support.
Families seeking faith-based, standards-aligned learning without one-size-fits-all expectations.
Parents who value clear boundaries, realistic goals, and collaboration.
Advice for Families Still Searching
Pray/reflect (or meditate) and define your non-negotiables.
Learn your learner—be honest about needs, independence, and your family’s capacity.
Use standards as a baseline to avoid skill gaps—then customize how you teach them.
Try microschools for primary instruction; use pods/co-ops as supplements.
Quick Facts
Location: Indiana (home-like campus)
Model: Faith-based microschool, mixed-age, ~7:1 ratio
Day: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Mon–Fri (with wraparound care)
Hallmarks: Personalized plans, trauma-informed practices, push-in therapies, standards alignment
Funding: Indiana ESA (where eligible) + community support
Contact & Learn More:
Website: sunriselearningacademy.org
Facebook: NaShawn Edwards
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