4 Ways to Build Income and Relationships While Starting Your Microschool
Posted on February 10th, 2025 by Makenzie Oliver
Welcome back, teachers! If you're searching for the freedom and permission to design a life you love while continuing your teaching career, you're in the right place. At Teachers Let Your Light Shine, we empower educators to step out of the traditional classroom and into entrepreneurial opportunities like starting a microschool, a tutoring business, or even a homeschooling co-op. If you're feeling the tug to launch your own educational venture but wondering how to generate income in the meantime, this blog is for you. Let's dive into four impactful ways you can start making income, building relationships, and stepping into confidence with your microschool journey.
Offer Tutoring Services
Tutoring is a straightforward and effective way to start generating income. You can offer:
Individual Tutoring: Provide personalized, one-on-one instruction that helps students master key concepts and build confidence. Parents value individualized attention, making this a high-demand service.
Group Tutoring: Once you've built relationships with families, consider small group sessions. This allows you to serve multiple students simultaneously, increasing your income while fostering peer collaboration. For example, charging $40 per student for a group of two means you earn $80 in one hour—more than you'd make tutoring individually.
Pro Tip: Start by talking to families you already know. If school policies prevent you from tutoring your own students, collaborate with colleagues or other educators to refer students.
2. Create Special Programs or Clubs
Special programs and clubs offer fun, engaging ways for students to learn and grow. The programs also help parents get to know, like, and trust you—key factors in enrolling students in your future microschool.
Consider offering:
After-school programs (STEM, art, or reading clubs)
Weekend workshops (cooking, science experiments, gardening)
Seasonal activities (holiday crafts, nature hikes)
Avoid framing these as "babysitting" services. Instead, emphasize the educational value and enriching experiences you're providing.
3. Launch A Summer Program
Summer programs are a game-changer!
They not only generate substantial income but also introduce your teaching style and philosophy to potential students and families.
Start planning early—January or February is ideal for marketing summer camps.
Offer engaging themes like nature exploration, STEM challenges, or creative arts.
These camps often become a catalyst for student enrollment when your microschool ocially opens.
4. Offer Homeschool Mentoring
With the rise of homeschooling, many parents seek guidance.
Use your expertise to mentor homeschooling families by offering:
Curriculum consultations
Mid-year check-ins and portfolio reviews
End-of-year assessments
Supporting families on their homeschooling journey builds trust and can lead to future microschool enrollments.
Many families appreciate professional insights that boost their confidence and enhance their child’s education.
Bonus Tip: Start with an LLC
Before diving into these strategies, consider establishing your business as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This step legitimizes your business, allows you to access tax benefits, and gives you the momentum to move forward. Don’t get stuck waiting for the "perfect name" or logo—you can always update those later. Starting your LLC signals to others (and yourself) that you're serious about this journey.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're ready to start generating income and building meaningful relationships as you prepare to launch your microschool, choose one of these strategies and take action today! For more resources and support, join us on Facebook in our Microschool Community group. Don't forget to check out our free resources at www.teachersletyourlightshine.com/resources to help you on your entrepreneurial journey.