The Discovery Collective
Raising learners who think for themselves—and take ownership of their future.
A Middle School AlternativeConversation → Ownership → Creation
If you feel the tension of knowing traditional public, private or homeschool is not right for your child in this evolving economy, you are not alone!
This is a space for a small group of learners to come together, have flexibility in homeschooling, while learning in a group setting.Student-led projects and real-world experiences replace passive instruction.
Learners guided through thoughtful questions, not constant answers— helping them build confidence, curiosity, and independence.This is a place where students learn how to learn, not just how to test.We intentionally develop:
• Intellectual curiosity – asking meaningful questions and thinking deeply with others
• Self-direction – managing their time, focus, and progress independently
• Meaningful work – creating, building, and contributing within the learner's interests
• Communication skills – speaking clearly, confidently, and respectfullyThe Program combines Socratic mornings, self-paced mastery & collaborative projects for a dynamic educational experience!
Weekly Rhythm
3 Group learning days/week (T, W, Th).
Intentionally allowing for a social learning aspect to homeschooling.Socratic discussion each morning to kick off the day (instead of lectures)Self-paced core learning using mastery based online curriculums & platforms (we have a list of potential curriculums to choose from such as Khan Academy, Aleks, IXL & many more)Collaborative projects that are learner drivenMaximum of 7 learnersEmphasis on ownership, curiosity & character
Who Is The Guide?
My name is Janalee Ensley. I’m a mother of two girls, ages 11 and 15. My youngest, Cora, will be a learner within the Discovery Collective, while my oldest, Jade, is a sophomore at King’s Way Christian School.
I serve as the Guide of the Discovery Collective—creating the environment, structure, and culture that allows learners to grow in independence, curiosity, and ownership of their education.My role includes:
Designing and maintaining a focused, learner-ready environment
Facilitating community expectations and culture
Leading daily Socratic discussions that spark critical thinking
Guiding learners through structured 25-minute work cycles
Supporting technology use as a tool for learning
Encouraging and developing project-based learning
Providing and organizing materials for hands-on work
Managing the community’s accountability and reward systems
Communicating consistently with parents
Coaching learners in mindset, ownership, and personal responsibilityI hold a Master’s degree in Child, Family, and School Psychology, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology.After working in both mental health and education, I quickly recognized that traditional systems—while well-intentioned—often limit innovation and individual growth. My entrepreneurial drive led my husband and me to build a direct sales business, which has allowed me to step away from traditional employment since 2015 while continuing to lead and grow a business alongside him.That journey shaped how I approach learning: questioning norms, thinking independently, and building solutions where gaps exist.The Discovery Collective is a natural extension of that mindset.
I’m passionate about creating a space for a small group of learners and families who are ready to take ownership of education, think differently, and build something meaningful.
Weekly Structure
Learning days take place Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.Families maintain flexibility for homeschooling outside of those days while students benefit from community learning.Daily Rhythm8:45 – 9:00: Arrival and preparation
9:00 – 9:30: Socratic discussion
9:30 – 12:15: Independent core learning in five 25 minute concentrated blocks (learners bring their own curriculum)12:15 – 12:45: Lunch and free time
12:45 – 2:00: Project work and group learning
2:00 – 2:15: Clean up and departureFirst Day of Collective: September 2, 2026
Last Day of Collective: June 3rd
Who Is This For?
Parents who value:
- Independence over managment
- Growth over grades
- Curiosity over complianceLearners who:
- Can work independently
- Are curious and thoughtful
- Can take responsibility for thier choices
Evidence for Rethinking School
We’ve studied and drawn from two of the most innovative education models today—Acton Academy and Alpha School.Both have shown that when students are given ownership, meaningful challenges, and the right structure, they don’t fall behind—they move ahead.Our approach blends the best of both:
- Student ownership and real-world projects
- Efficient, mastery-based academics
-Guides who coach through questions—not lecturesThe result is a learning environment where students build confidence, curiosity, and capability.
Enrollment
Interest Process1. Fill out the parent inquiry form below
2. An intro call will be scheduled if the initial inquiry form shows there could be a good fit between the learner, the learner’s family & The Discovery Collective.
3. Schedule a family/learner conversation
4. EnrollmentMonthly ContributionInitial Deposit Upon Acceptance: $225/studentBecause spots are limited, enrollment is secured with a $225 non-refundable enrollment fee due within 48 hours upon acceptance to hold your learner’s spot.A $650 monthly contribution will be due by the 5th of each month. Payments will be accepted by cash, check or Venmo.The Discovery Collective will run from September 2nd, 2026 - June 2nd, 2027- 9 monthly contribution payments will be made by the 5th of each month (Sept 2026-May 2027) for participation.