Manisha Snoyer sits down with Noah Apple Mayers, the visionary founder of Brooklyn Apple Academy—a progressive homeschool co-op based in New York. The academy diverges from traditional education systems, offering an environment that fosters creativity, real-world experiences, and democratic decision-making. From a flexible seven-day programming schedule to weekend activities that defy convention, Brooklyn Apple Academy is revolutionizing the education landscape. The discussion delves into critical topics like the year-round enrollment cycle, various community events, and the academy's approach to developing well-rounded individuals. Noah also shares intriguing insights about his latest class for teens, which explores New York City infrastructure in collaboration with elected officials and city planners. Whether you're a parent contemplating alternative education or a student seeking a more engaging learning experience, this episode is a treasure trove of educational innovation. Noah Mayers is the founder and lead teacher at Brooklyn Apple Academy. With over two decades of experience in the educational realm, Noah has taught at prestigious institutions like Eugene Lang College/New School University and Brooklyn Free School. Passionate about revolutionizing education in New York City's dynamic setting, his pedagogical approach is hands-on, project-oriented, and arts-centric. This approach offers families a holistic, less bureaucratic, and more creative learning experience. Inspired by his own alternative educational journey, Noah is committed to creating the kind of school he wishes he could have attended—one that fosters self-motivated, lifelong learners through individualized, active learning. His work is a living testament to his dedication to educational innovation.
Noah Apple Mayers: LinkedIn | Facebook | Flickr
Teach Your Kids: Website | X | Instagram | Substack
Manisha: LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Facebook
This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
Time Codes:
00:00:20 - Manisha introduces Noah Apple Mayers, a visionary in alternative education.
00:01:20 - Noah describes Brooklyn Apple's year-round homeschooling system. The academy mimics a traditional school year, ensuring smooth transitions for students and parents alike.
00:03:00 - Noah unveils a groundbreaking class for teens focusing on NYC's complex infrastructure. Through interactions with city planners and officials, teens can get hands-on civic education.
00:07:27 - Emphasizing the necessity for a creative environment, Noah believes that playtime and messes aren't just tolerated but celebrated as vital to fostering imagination.
00:09:40 - Manisha highlights the growth trajectory of Brooklyn Apple Academy, focusing on the rich diversity of teachers they've onboarded.
00:15:37 - Child's play is serious business for Noah, who argues for the developmental benefits of controlled risk-taking. In his view, pushing boundaries can yield unexpected life lessons.
00:19:27 - Manisha poses a crucial question, asking Noah about the long-term effects of this type of education on the Brooklyn Apple students, particularly as they transition into adulthood.
00:22:49 - What does a typical day look like at the academy?
00:32:00 - The rise of learning pods and micro schools during the pandemic is discussed. Manisha expresses her concerns about micro schools trying to recreate traditional school environments and the lack of parent involvement.
00:34:20 - "What skills are kids picking up?" Manisha's question lets Noah spotlight the complex web of learning that takes place at Brooklyn Apple, from conflict resolution to culinary artistry.
00:38:20 - Noah places equal importance on practical life skills, like cooking and managing finances.
00:43:25 - Field Trip Day isn't just a day out; it's an educational pilgrimage. Noah elucidates on how these outings add another layer of practical education.
00:49:40 - Manisha suggests that the best way to evaluate Brooklyn Apple's effectiveness is by visiting the academy. It's an open invitation, accompanied by an appeal for scholarship donations.
00:52:48 - As the episode wraps, Manisha turns to the audience, encouraging them to drop their questions and thoughts in the comment section.
This podcast is made possible through a generous grant from the Vela Education Fund.
VELA Education Fund is catalyzing a vibrant alternative education ecosystem. VELA provides trust-based funding to entrepreneurs, fosters community-building and knowledge-sharing, and increases visibility through storytelling that promotes cultural awareness and acceptance of the out-of-system space. Today, VELA serves the largest community of out-of-system education entrepreneurs in the country, with over 2,000 community members. About half of VELA’s community members operate small learning environments, and the other half are ecosystem and community builders offering direct services and support across the out-of-system space. Learn more at velaedfund.org.