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WHO WE ARE

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Welcome to CALE, a Microschool in Columbia, MO, where we are reimagining education. We’re not traditional public or private—our approach is different. At CALE, we blend the best of proven educational practices with fresh, innovative ideas to create a personalized, dynamic learning experience.

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Here, students are encouraged to think creatively, explore deeply, and learn at their own pace. Our approach celebrates individuality, rejecting the one-size-fits-all model in favor of nurturing each student’s unique path.

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If you're ready for a new way of learning, we invite you to join us at CALE. Let’s build the future of education together.

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CORE VALUES OF CALE FAMILIES: 

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Our families value an education that goes beyond what traditional systems offer. You’re looking for something different for your child—an experience that doesn’t follow the conventional model or classroom. You recognize that every child is unique and can flourish in an environment designed to celebrate their individuality.

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Our families value the expertise and experience of our teachers, who are dedicated to fostering individualized learning that goes beyond traditional expectations. They understand that learning is not confined to traditional standards or one-size-fits-all milestones, but is a personalized journey that respects each child’s unique pace and potential.

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Our families value innovation and believe in simplifying education to make it more effective and accessible.

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Our families value growth over rigid, age-based expectations. They recognize that each child has a unique learning journey, one that deserves to be respected and nurtured. While we use grade-level norms to inform our assessments, we understand that every child masters skills at their own pace, and we honor that individuality.

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​Our families value a small, supportive learning environment where students can build confidence, develop social skills, and learn to navigate friendships and relationships. They understand the importance of empathy and how to apply it across different age groups. Additionally, our families appreciate the focus on teaching self-management and organizational skills, preparing students to become responsible young adults who can plan, prioritize, and manage their time effectively.

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OUR TEAM

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Dr. Jill Brown

Co-Founder/Director

25 Years Experience

BA in Elementary Education

MEd in Curriculum and Instruction

EdS in Educational Leadership

PhD in Educational Leadership 

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Jill began her career as a 2nd and 3rd-grade teacher before moving into the role of literacy coach. She then spent nine years in administration at both the building and district levels, gaining a deep understanding of educational systems and leadership.

 

Jill has also worked as an educational consultant across Missouri and beyond, providing professional development and support for Science of Reading implementation. She is the Co-Founder of the Show-Me Science of Reading National Conference held in Columbia, MO each year. 

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Jill is the author of the book and online course, Matching Reading Data to Interventions: A Simple Tool for Elementary Educators, a practical guide that helps educators use reading data to inform and refine their reading practices.

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Now, Jill is taking her passion for innovative education to new heights as she embarks on a journey to reimagine learning through her work in the field of microschools.

OUR TEAM

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