MARS Microschool — Enrollment Banner
Enrollment Opening

Enrollment Starts
May 1st, 2026

Apply now to be part of the curriculum planning process, class selection, and dual enrollment decisions — before seats are filled.

Apply Now
Enrollment opens May 1st
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Now May 1st

NOW ENROLLING · 2026–27 SCHOOL YEAR

High school for kids who are already building things.

MARS is a full-time high school program for grades 9–12 in Huntsville, Alabama. Small cohort. Real projects. AI-forward curriculum. Zero busywork.

20

seats available

9-12

Grades

$7k

annual tuition

HSV

Hunstville, al

How it Works

Full-time school. A format that fits the future.

MARS runs five days a week with a hybrid structure designed around how high-agency students actually work best.

🚀

Every Thursday

In person at the U.S Space & Rocket Center

Hackathons, hands-on projects, guest speakers, and collaborative work sessions hosted at one of Huntsville's most inspiring venues. Thursday is the heartbeat of the week.

Monday - Wednesday & Friday

Structured Virtual Learning

Four days of focused coursework, project time, and self-directed learning from home -- with the accountability of a real school schedule.

All week

Real Projects. Real Deadlines.

No busywork. Students build portfolios, completed rigorous courses across real subject areas, and develop skills that transfer to college and careers.

🤖

AI & Real-World Tech

Students learn to build with AI tools, not just use them. Skills tied to real-world applications across every subject.

Weekly Hackathons

Every Thursday is a chance to ship something. Collaborative problem-solving under real constraints with real peers.

🎓

Dual Enrollment

Earn college credits while completing high school. Students leave MARS ahead, not just ready.

👥

Small Cohort

20 students max. Every student is known, challenged, and supported. No one gets lost in the crowd.

Who it's for

Gifted teens need their tribe.

MARS is recruiting 20 high-agency students for 2026. If your kid is the one who's already building, hacking, designing, or leading -- this is the room they've been missing.

  • Self-directed learners who aren't able to thrive in a traditional classroom

  • Students who want to create things, not just study things

  • Kids curious about AI, entrepreneurship, or technology

  • Teens who are ready to take real ownership of their time and learning

  • Families who want an alternative with academic rigor

Campus

U.S. Space & Rocket Center

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama

In-person Thursdays | Virtual Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri

Grades 9-12

20 Students Max

Full-Time

2026-27

Founded By

Jennifer Wolverton

Educator, Author, AI Pioneer

Curriculum

Courses that actually connect.

A selection of courses across a variety of subject strands, all build to develop students who can think, communicate, and create with technology.

No matter which courses students choose, every option builds communication skills, technical fluency, and critical thinking. Creative courses are still rigorous, and technical courses still emphasize ethics and communication.
English
Grammar Foundry AI Writers Guild TED-Ed Presentations
Math
Stock Market Game Algebra ChartKeepers Unlock Math
Science
Chemistry in VR
History / Civics
Podcasting Through History Nomadic Professor
Technology
Python Programming Data Analytics Game Design in Minecraft Unity & Game Design Drones & Aerial Systems Digital Art Ukulele
Trailblazers Certifications – MARS Microschool
Recognized Credentials

More Than Grades.
Certified Trailblazers.

Congratulations to our Trailblazers who earned PCEP and TRUST certifications this year.

PCEP – Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer badge
Python Institute

PCEP Certification

Students master Python fundamentals — variables, data types, logic, loops, functions, and problem-solving. A globally recognized first credential in coding that signals readiness for advanced computer science pathways.

FAA TRUST certification logo
Federal Aviation Administration

FAA TRUST Certification

Students complete required safety and aeronautical training for recreational drone flying in the U.S. — covering airspace rules, responsible flight practices, and federal compliance. Required by law and a real-world credential, even at a young age.

How Enrollment Works

Four steps to launch day.

We designed the process to be straightforward. No guessing, no long waits, no pressure. Here's exactly what to expect.

1
Submit Your Interest Form
Takes about five minutes. No commitment required -- just the start of a conversation.
2
Discovery Call & Application
We'll reach out to schedule a call, then invite you to submit the full application.
$50 Application Fee
3
Family Interview
We meet with at least one parent and your student, hear their story, and identify the best fit.
4
Enrollment & Mission Start
Accepted families complete the enrollment form and pay the enrollment fee to secure their seat.
$375 Enrollment Fee
1
Submit Your Interest Form
Takes about five minutes. No commitment required -- just the start of a conversation.
2
Discovery Call & Application
We'll reach out to schedule a call, then invite you to submit the full application.
$50 Application Fee
3
Family Interview
We meet with at least one parent and your student, hear their story, and identify the best fit.
4
Enrollment & Mission Start
Accepted families complete the enrollment form and pay the enrollment fee to secure their seat.
$375 Enrollment Fee

Tuition & funding

Private school quality. A price that might surprise you.

At $7,000 per year, MARS is accessible for many families. And if you qualify for the Alabama CHOOSE Act, the program could cover your entire tuition.

💰 Tuition & Fees
$7,000
Annual tuition per student
Application Fee
Paid when you submit your full application
$50
Enrollment Fee
Paid upon acceptance to secure your seat
$375
We work with every family to explore all available funding options before you commit to anything.
✓  CHOOSE Act Approved
Alabama's Choose Act might cover the whole thing.
$7,000 / per student
The Alabama CHOOSE Act provides qualifying families with an Education Savings Account (ESA) worth up to $7,000 per student -- exactly MARS's annual tuition. If your family qualifies, your cost could be zero.
MARS is an approved Education Service Provider. We help families navigate the application process and make sure you don't leave funding on the table.
Learn more at chooseact.alabama.gov →

If you're unsure whether MARS is the right

environment for your child, let’s walk through

it together.

You can schedule a 30‑minute interest call with me — I’m here to help you make the best decision for your learner.

For the best experience, we recommend that both parents and the student attend the call.

Step 1 of 4

Schedule a Discovery call

Want to talk to us in person? Schedule a discovery call. This is just the start of a conversation -- no commitment, no pressure.

Limited to 20 students for 2026–27
  • No commitment when you submit

  • We'll help you explore CHOOSE Act funding

  • Questions welcome at every step

Family Information:

Education Information:

Next Steps: Application, Enrollment, and Onboarding

Thank you for your interest in MARS!

Below is an overview of the application, enrollment, and onboarding process so you can plan accordingly.

Founding families (returning students) will enroll in February to secure their spots for the upcoming year. 

New families may begin enrolling on March 1. We will continue to accept applications until we reach our full capacity of 20 motivated high school Trailblazers in Huntsville. At that point, applications will close, and we will move to a waitlist system.

MARS Application & Enrollment Checklist

Step 1: Submit Application & Fee (February–Until Full)

  • Complete the online application.

  • Pay the non-refundable $50 application fee.

  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.

Step 2: Enrollment Invitation & Fee Payment(February–Until Full)

  • If accepted, families will receive an official enrollment invitation via email.

  • Pay the $375 enrollment fee.

  • Once the enrollment fee is paid, the student’s spot is officially secured.

Step 3: Tuition & Agreements (July 1st)

  • Families will sign all required agreements:

    • Volunteer / Parent Participation Form

    • Code of Conduct & Behavior Agreement

    • Liability & Identification Form

    • MARS Media Release

    • MARS Parent Handbook & Acknowledgement

    • MARS Technology & Internet Use Agreement

    • Student Information & Emergency Contact Form

    • Transportation & Pick-up Form

    • Financial Agreement (Tuition Payment Terms: July–April)

  • Tuition is paid in monthly installments from July through April, but it is NOT a subscription. All tuition is NON-REFUNDABLE.

Step 4: Orientation & Student Onboarding (August 1st)

  • Families receive access to MARS onboarding materials.

  • Attend the Trailblazer Not-Back-to-School Event in Mid-August.

  • Students receive Microsoft logins and access to learning platforms.

Step 5: First Day of School! (Thursday After Labor Day)

  • MARS officially begins the new school year on the Thursday after Labor Day. Many families begin their math curriculum in August. This is recommended.

If you have any questions during this process, please reach out to [email protected]. We look forward to welcoming your family to MARS! 🚀

$50
MARS Microschool — Enrollment
Enrollment Opening
Important Planning Window

Enrollment Is
Opening May 1st,
2026

This is your window to be part of curriculum planning, class selection, and dual enrollment decisions — before seats and materials are finalized. We intentionally coordinate schedules so MARS students can share classes together when possible.

May 1 2026
Enrollment
Opens
Class Selection
Students and families finalize course schedules for the upcoming year.
Dual Enrollment
Eligible students begin the Calhoun dual enrollment process for college credit.
Curriculum Planning
Materials, programs, and outsourced seats are ordered based on enrolled students.
Why enrolling early matters
Once purchasing begins, curriculum seats and materials are ordered based on enrolled students. Students added after this phase may incur additional costs. Early enrollment locks in your place — and your pricing.
Included in decisionsYour student shapes the year from day one.
Dual enrollment accessPlanning starts here for eligible students.
No surprise feesAvoid late-add costs tied to curriculum seats.
Ready to secure your place for 2025–26?
Be included in curriculum and scheduling decisions — apply before seats are filled.
Apply Now →
Conferences — MARS Microschool

Where MARS Shows Up

FREE VIRTUAL · MAY 6–21
The 6th Neurodiverse Homeschooling Summit
mlccoaching.com/summit-registration
Jennifer Wolverton — How to Use Technology in Homeschooling

Jennifer Wolverton presents How to Use Technology in Homeschooling at this landmark free virtual event celebrating neurodivergent learners and the educators who champion innovative approaches.

Register Free →
CONFERENCE · ATLANTA
Hybrid Schools Conference Highlights
Atlanta, Georgia
MARS students at the Hybrid Schools Conference in Atlanta

Still riding the high from Atlanta — MARS students didn't just attend, they owned the room. Four teens showcased the technology they're actively building at MARS.

  • Logan Wolverton — Game Agents Hackathon he led
  • Isaac — ChatDog, AI chatbot built on a Petoi quadruped
  • Ben — RFID attendance app built in Python
  • Aleksandra — AI-generated MARS theme song she wrote and produced

We also shared MARS operations and practical AI tools for educators. Huge thanks to Eric Wearne for growing this inspiring community.

// next deployment California · June — Learn Beyond the Book Conference
MARS Microschool — Course Updates
// 02   Course Updates
↑ TOP
Course Updates  ·  Issue #9  ·  Week of April 12, 2026
AI ART UNIT NOW LIVESTEMQUEST WEEKLY TASKS UPDATEDMINECRAFT EDUCATION ACCESS INCLUDEDNEW COMMUNITY GALLERY OPENAI WRITING UNIT ENROLLINGSUBSCRIBE FOR $10/MONTHAI ART UNIT NOW LIVESTEMQUEST WEEKLY TASKS UPDATEDMINECRAFT EDUCATION ACCESS INCLUDEDNEW COMMUNITY GALLERY OPENAI WRITING UNIT ENROLLINGSUBSCRIBE FOR $10/MONTH
Creative Learning — Units 1 & 2
A Creative Journey from
Imagination to Expression

Units 1 and 2 explore how technology can expand creativity without replacing human imagination. Exploring AI Art and AI Writing & Storytelling — click either unit below to enroll.

Unit 1: Exploring AI Art — steampunk robot creating artwork
// Unit 1
Exploring AI Art

Students become visual world-builders, using AI as a creative tool to design characters, landscapes, and creatures — learning how technology can amplify imagination. Grades 6–12.


Start Unit 1 ↗
Unit 2: AI Writing and Storytelling — fantasy book world
// Unit 2
AI Writing & Storytelling

Learners step into the role of story architects — developing characters, dialogue, and plot while using AI as a thoughtful creative partner. Build a full writing portfolio.


Start Unit 2 ↗

Together these units guide students through a full creative cycle — designing, writing, and refining ideas — while strengthening storytelling skills, multimodal thinking, and confidence.

StemQuest — Minecraft-style glowing blocks
Add-On Subscription
StemQuest
Your weekly mission hub for curious minds
$10
per month
Weekly Tasks
Fresh challenges and missions dropped every week to keep learning active and exciting
Worksheets & Resources
Printable and digital worksheets aligned to each unit — ready to use, no prep needed
Minecraft Education
Full access to Minecraft Education Edition — build, explore, and learn in immersive worlds
Your Own Community
Share your work, connect with other learners, and get inspired in a safe, moderated space
Subscribe Now — $10/mo ↗ View Full Curriculum ↗
Cancel anytime  ·  No commitment required
MARS Dispatch — Stay Connected
MARS Dispatch — Stay in the Know
Rocket Drones — National Student Drone Competition
MARS Microschool — We Are Competing!
MARS Microschool is headed to the National Student Drone Competition

Our students used Rocket Drones to learn physics — and now they're taking it to the national stage at Space Camp in Huntsville, AL. We hope to see you there cheering us on!

● We Are Competing!
Apr 30 – May 1, 2026
Space Camp, AL
// Rocket Drones — National Competition
Register Your School &
Take Flight Nationally

The Rocket Drones National Student Drone Competition is held at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. No equipment or experience needed — anyone can participate. All schools are welcome.

// Venue
Space Camp, Huntsville AL
// Dates
Apr 30 – May 1, 2026
// Events
5 Competition Categories
MARS MICROSCHOOL IS COMPETINGAPR 30 – MAY 1, 2026SPACE CAMP HUNTSVILLE ALDRONE RACING · LANDING · DELIVERY · BASKETBALL · FPVALL SKILL LEVELS WELCOMENO EXPERIENCE REQUIREDMARS MICROSCHOOL IS COMPETINGAPR 30 – MAY 1, 2026SPACE CAMP HUNTSVILLE ALDRONE RACING · LANDING · DELIVERY · BASKETBALL · FPVALL SKILL LEVELS WELCOMENO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
// Competition Events
01
Drone Racing (Line of Sight)Racing
02
Dynamic Landing ChallengePrecision
03
Drone Delivery ChallengeCargo
04
Drone Basketball ChallengeAgility
05
Drone Racing (First-Person View)FPV · Esports
MARS Weekly Dispatch — Endorsed Curriculum
Endorsed Curriculum  ·  MARS Microschool Recommends
Educator Approved
Math That Actually Works
// Format
Self-Paced Online
// Support
Live Teachers Included
// Access
Free Trial Available

At MARS Microschool, we vet every tool we recommend. Unlock Math earned our endorsement because it delivers something rare: a structured, rigorous math curriculum that works on a student's schedule — without sacrificing the human support that makes all the difference.

Unlock Math — Flexibility of Self-Paced. Support of Live Teachers. Free Trial.
// Endorsed Partner · Unlock Math Start Free Trial
Flexibility of Self-Paced Learning
Students move at their own speed — no waiting, no rushing. Perfect for microschool environments where schedules are non-traditional and learner ownership matters.
Support of Live Teachers
Real math teachers are available to answer questions and explain concepts — giving students the accountability and connection that online learning often lacks.
Comprehensive K–12 Coverage
From foundational arithmetic through pre-calculus, Unlock Math covers the full spectrum — so families can use it across multiple students and grade levels.
// Why MARS Endorses This
We believe math fluency is the foundation of every STEM discipline our Trailblazers will pursue. Unlock Math combines the independence our students are trained for with the expert guidance they deserve. It's one of the few platforms that actually honors both.
K–12
Full Curriculum
Coverage
FREE
Trial Access
No Credit Card
LIVE
Teacher Support
Included
MARS Weekly Dispatch — Endorsed Curriculum: ChemExplained
Endorsed Curriculum  ·  MARS Microschool Recommends
Educator Approved
Chemistry Taught, Explained & Understood
// Format
Video-Based Instruction
// Level
College-Prep High School
// Credit
240+ Colleges Accept

ChemExplained is a college-prep high school chemistry program designed to make complex concepts clear and approachable. Students learn directly from an experienced chemistry teacher through video-based instruction, guided notes, and flexible lab options — working independently at an appropriate level of rigor.

ChemExplained — A hidden gem in homeschool curriculum. Where chemistry is taught, explained AND understood.
// Endorsed Partner · ChemExplained Learn More
Video-Based Instruction with Guided Notes
Students learn directly from an experienced chemistry teacher on video — not a textbook alone. Guided notes reinforce each lesson and keep learners on track without hand-holding.
Flexible Lab Options
Labs are designed for real-world flexibility — no elaborate school setup required. A strong fit for home educators who want genuine science rigor without institutional constraints.
Transferable College Credit
The full ChemExplained course earns transferable credit at over 240 Christian colleges and universities — letting students start their degrees affordably before graduation.
// Why MARS Endorses This
ChemExplained delivers the kind of concept-driven, rigorous instruction our Trailblazers are built for. It pairs the independence our students are trained to embrace with the depth that science education demands — and it opens real college credit pathways that give learners a head start.
240+
Colleges Accept
Transferable Credit
DUAL
Credit Opportunity
While in High School
VIDEO
Expert Teacher
Led Instruction
MARS Microschool

// Ready to get started?

Ready to Bring MARS to Your Learners?

See how MARS can support your child's creativity, problem-solving, and future-ready skills — in just a short, focused session with our team. Want to learn more? Schedule a Discovery Call today.

Schedule a Call ↗

Innovate · Create · Pioneer

www.marsmicroschool.ai

MARS Microschool — Future-ready learning for curious learners.
We believe every child deserves a place to explore boldly, think creatively, and grow with confidence.


MARS Microschool

INNOVATE · CREATE · PIONEER

A technology-forward microschool for secondary students. We're not just preparing students for the future—we're building it with them through AI, robotics, and project-based learning.

Connect

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