Why We Exist: The Story Behind Peter Mitchell Academy
Launching October 1, 2026
For four years, we watched a bright, determined student give their all—and still fall further behind. This student came to us week after week for tutoring, showing up with effort and hope, yet remaining two grade levels behind in Math and Language Arts. It was in this persistent gap between effort and outcome that we discovered a hard truth: tutoring is a supplement, but what some students need is a transformation.
That experience revealed a failure not of the child or the teacher, but of the model. An hour of support, no matter how dedicated, cannot undo a full school day of struggle. By the time a student with dyslexia or ADHD reaches us, they are often exhausted, overwhelmed, and convinced they are "bad at school." They don't need a Band-Aid; they need a whole new environment.
That is why we started this microschool. We exist to provide a full learning environment—mornings and afternoons, consistency and routine—where specialized instruction is not an add-on, but the whole point.
A Mission Built for Solano County Families
Beginning October 1, 2026, we will serve homeschooled students in Solano County with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges. Our model maintains a 1:8 teacher-to-student ratio—small enough for individualized attention, yet structured to foster peer collaboration and social growth. We are part of a growing movement of microschools designed to be nimble, responsive, and deeply focused on student outcomes.
Our Core Approach:
Orton-Gillingham Literacy: This structured, multisensory approach is the gold standard for teaching reading to students with dyslexia and is highly effective for students with ADHD who benefit from clear routines and hands-on activities.
Multisensory Math & Sensory-Informed Teaching: We engage all the senses to build foundational skills, moving beyond rote memorization to foster genuine understanding.
A Space Designed for Different Learners: Our environment is built to minimize distractions and maximize engagement, allowing students to learn in a way that works for them.
Community & Belonging: We believe learning happens best in relationship. Our microschool is a circle, not a row. Students know they are seen, heard, and valued—not just as learners, but as whole people.
Understanding Our History: We ground our work in an honest and affirming understanding of Black and Brown history. We teach our students their heritage—not from a place of deficit, but from a place of power, resilience, and contribution. We believe that knowing who you are and where you come from is essential to knowing what you can become. This is our foundation, and we welcome all families who share this commitment to truth, justice, and cultural affirmation.
Creating Family: This is not a school that ends at 3:00 PM. We are building a multigenerational village—where parents, grandparents, and community elders are welcome. We celebrate together, we struggle together, and we grow together. Our students don't just attend a program; they join a family.
A Legacy of Service, A New Chapter
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, established since 2010, with trained staff ready to serve. Our existing students and families have been part of our journey for years—and now we are expanding to offer them and others like them the full-time, specialized environment they deserve.
On October 1, 2026, we open our doors as a microschool. Not as a supplement. Not as a Band-Aid. As the solution.
Enrollment Now Open
We are currently accepting enrollment for our inaugural cohort. Spaces are limited to maintain our 1:8 ratio.
To learn more or to enroll your student, contact us today.
Peter Mitchell Academy
Solano County, California
Launching October 1, 2026