Our Mission:
Partnering with local educators and professionals in their fields,
to provide alternative educational settings that enrich students' senses,
expand their minds, and empower their potentials.
What Is Soaring Minds Education (SME)?
Soaring Minds is a community-centered learning hub where experienced teachers guide students in both academic and life skills development. We believe learning happens best when it is out in the community, not confined to traditional government classrooms. Our students engage in hands-on, experiential learning through real-world projects, apprenticeships, and college pathways in trades and careers. We meet our students at local lakes, museums, parks, the zoo, aquariums, organic farms, and gardens.
We emphasize:
* Core Academics with Practical Skills
* Social-Emotional Learning
* Empathy and Resilience
* Collaborative Learning
* Life Skills
* Career Exploration (through internships/college)
* Community Connections
* Pursuit of Goals
* A Life-Long Love of Learning
We connect with local businesses, tradespeople, and colleges to offer apprenticeships and mentorship programs, ensuring students gain both classroom knowledge and industry experience. Outdoor learning spaces, gardens, and community projects are integrated into the schedule, promoting environmental awareness, physical activity, and collaborative learning with like-minded classmates.
Our mission is to prepare graduates who are skilled, confident, and connected—ready to thrive in their chosen careers and as active, engaged citizens.
Who Is Soaring Minds Education (SME)?
The founders of SME grew up in South San Diego and are first generation Americans born to immigrant parents. They are veteran educators experienced with teaching in the public school system, youth sports, and homeschooling their own five children. Their educational goal has always been to support their own children in the exploration of academic, artistic, recreational and occupational opportunities, as well as their individual interests, learning styles and potentials. You can learn more about our founders here.
The best part is that SME is an independent program, NOT a school or a co-op. SME encourages parents the freedom to educate their children however they believe works best. We don't require testing, homework or work samples. In addition to subjects like language arts, social studies and science, SME exposes students to extraordinary subjects such as boating, music, drama, outdoor survival skills, martial arts, robotics, cooking, sewing, dance, languages, botany, music, entrepreneurship, zoology, and many others.
Soaring Minds Education is a tribe of families, enjoying and sharing a dynamic learning experience through class days, field trips, community service projects, and family socials.