Cottage School Initiative
A relational, formation-centered model designed to support young people whose educational pathways have been disrupted, providing restoration through small learning communities grounded in mentorship, stability, and academic recovery.
Why the Cottage School Initiative Exists
Across the United States, a growing number of young people are arriving in our communities carrying significant educational disruption. Many have experienced interrupted schooling, language barriers, displacement, or prolonged instability. Traditional systems are often unequipped to meet both their academic and relational needs, leaving students behind not because of ability, but because of structure.
The Cottage School Initiative exists to provide a smaller, relational learning environment where restoration can begin — academically, socially, and personally. CSI is built on the conviction that education is not merely delivery of content, but the re-establishment of confidence, belonging, and hope.
A Relational, One-Room Model for Restoration
CSI operates through small, multi-age learning environments designed to meet students where they are and move them forward with clarity and care.
Literacy Foundations
Intentional reading, writing, and language development that rebuilds confidence and access to learning.
Math Restoration
Conceptual and applied mathematics instruction focused on closing foundational gaps.
Integrated Learning
Content taught through connected themes that support comprehension and real-world understanding.
Mentorship & Belonging
Consistent adult guidance within a stable community that fosters trust, resilience, and growth.
Who CSI Serves
The Cottage School Initiative is designed for young people who need a different starting point and a more attentive environment.
• Unaccompanied minors navigating new educational systems
• Immigrant and refugee youth
• Students with interrupted or limited formal schooling
• Adolescents needing foundational academic recovery
• Communities seeking a relational, high-support model
CSI meets students at the intersection of academic need and human dignity.
What Restoration Looks Like
CSI is designed to produce measurable academic growth alongside personal stability and renewed direction.
Literacy and math growth
Students demonstrate meaningful progress in literacy and mathematics.
Stable mentorship relationships
Young people experience consistent mentorship and a safe learning community.
Renewed educational pathways
Students transition into continued education, training, or vocational exploration with confidence.
Restoration is not only academic — it is holistic.
Bring a Cottage School to Your Community
The Cottage School Initiative is designed to be implemented locally through partnerships with churches, organizations, and community leaders who share a commitment to formation-centered education.
If you are exploring ways to serve students who need a more attentive and relational learning environment, we would welcome a conversation.
We are currently identifying pilot communities and strategic partners.
CSI reflects a simple conviction: when students are known, guided, and taught with care, restoration is possible.