Explore the Arbor Learning Lab Experience

Flexible, Social, and Inclusive

Whether you’re seeking support in your homeschooling journey, a vibrant community of friends, or a nurturing and inclusive environment tailored to your child’s unique needs, Arbor Learning Lab is here for you. Located in Rutherford County, our microschool combines personalized learning, project-based education, and a deep connection to nature and community, empowering students to thrive and grow. At Arbor Learning Lab, we cultivate curiosity, creativity, and belonging every step of the way.

A Student-Centered Microschool in Rutherford County

We provide a environment focused not only on academics but holistic development. We emphasize social, emotional and practical life skills. Students at Arbor Learning Lab grow as individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate, confident, and resilient; ready to embrace their future.

Full-Time

4 or 5 days per week

Our traditional school year program provides a well-rounded education through a combination of daily learning exercises, engaging project based activities, and personalized instruction.

Part-Time

2 or 3 days per week

Our part-time program includes daily learning, engaging activities, and personalized instruction. Part-time plans are available as our families need them.

Enrichment

Weekly afterschool, on Fridays & through Weekend Learning Pods

Our curriculum includes a Friday focus on agriculture and animal husbandry as well as local field trips related to our studies throughout Middle Tennessee. Families can also attend weekend learning Pods for additional personalized instruction with collaborative activities to inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Daily Elements Include:

  • Student-Led Morning Meeting
    The day begins at 9:00 AM with a short, intentional gathering where students lead check-ins, announcements, and set shared goals for the day.

  • Work Cycle I: Core & Creative Learning
    Students move through uninterrupted work blocks, with a mix of:

    • Individualized and small group math

    • Literature, writing, and inquiry-based humanities

    • STEAM and integrated project work

    • Choice-based assignments based on learning goals

  • Outdoor Time & Physical Movement
    Each day includes time to get outside—whether for nature walks, farm chores, gardening, free play, or group games. Fresh air and movement are essential to focus and wellbeing.

  • Work of the Hand
    Practical life skills and hands-on projects—like cooking, farming, art, design, or microbusiness activities—help students build responsibility, creativity, and real-world readiness.

  • Lunch & Unstructured Outdoor Play
    A time to eat, laugh, move, and recharge in nature with peers.

  • Solo Time ( Journaling or Silent Reading)
    After lunch, students ease back into the day with intentional quiet time for reflection, reading, journaling, or planning—developing habits of focus and self-awareness.

  • Work Cycle II: Project Lab & Collaborative Work
    Afternoons include collaborative projects, studio work, and support for individualized academics.

  • Closing Meeting & Responsibilities
    Each day ends with student-led reflections, goal review, and shared responsibilities to care for our space and community.

A Sample Day at Arbor Learning Lab

Our day starts at 9:00 AM and is structured to blend core academics, hands-on work, student choice, and time outdoors—guided by Montessori Erdkinder principles.

Time Activity
9:00 – 9:20 AM Student-Led Morning Meeting
9:20 – 11:00 AM Work Cycle I: Academics & Small Group Lessons
11:00 – 11:30 AM Outdoor Time & Snack Break
11:30 – 12:30 PM Work of the Hand / Project-Based Learning
12:30 – 1:00 PM Lunch & Outdoor Free Play
1:00 – 1:30 PM Solo Time: Junk Journaling / Reading
1:30 – 2:30 PM Work Cycle II: STEAM, Collaboration, Choice Work
2:30 – 3:00 PM Closing Meeting & Responsibilities

We are your education partners.

We believe that as parents, you know your child best. That is why we give you, as the family, the choice and power to decide what and how your child should learn. We work with you to understand your goals and support you in developing a learning plan that best serves your child. Our model was developed to allow for self-paced mastery learning with a project based aspect to give your family all the flexibility and support you need.