A new school grows online: Colossal Academy sets itself apart with an experiential, hands-on approach to virtual learning

Affiliate Disclaimer and Reviewer Bias: Our goal is to connect families with the right program for their unique needs and that no program is perfect for every child. In that spirit, we strive to provide in-depth unbiased information on every program we review to help families determine if it’s a good fit for their child. With that said, we think you should know the founder is one of Manisha’s dearest friends and collabarators. Furthermore, we have a partnership with Colossal, so we may earn a commission if you enroll.

This review was written by Manisha Snoyer, founder and CEO of Modulo. Manisha has 20 years of experience as a tutor and classroom teacher. During the pandemic, she created Schoolclosures.org, helping over 100,000 parents with homeschooling challenges. Manisha has consulted with thousands of parents, including tech industry leaders, gaining deep insights into homeschooling needs.

Of all the online learning schools we've reviewed, Colossal Academy Online stands out as a truly groundbreaking, experiential, and project-based curriculum that resonates with both students and educators. Designed by seasoned educators with a passion for fostering real-world skills and creative problem-solving, this innovative platform offers a personalized learning experience that goes beyond traditional methods. Colossal Academy Online is not just about hitting academic benchmarks; it's about nurturing independent thinkers and future leaders who thrive in a dynamic, digital world. Whether your child is entrepreneurial, creative, or simply seeking an engaging educational alternative, Colossal Academy Online provides a flexible and supportive environment where they can excel.

Grades: 6th-10th

Colossal Academy Online serves students from 6th through 10th grade, offering a curriculum that is tailored to the developmental stages and academic needs of each age group.

Cost: 0 - $7,000 per year

State funding provided in Arizona, Florida and New Hampshire covering the full cost of tuition.

The cost of Colossal Academy Online ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 per year, depending on the student’s grade level and the specific program chosen. The academy offers a sliding scale for tuition, making it accessible to a wide range of families. The program is a vendor for Step Up for Students and the New Hampshire Children's Scholarship Fund which families can use to cover the full cost of tuition.

Colossal Academy Online is the brainchild of Shiren Rattigan, an educator with a vision to revolutionize the traditional schooling system. Shiren, who has extensive experience in progressive education, launched Colossal Academy Online to address the gap she saw in conventional education, particularly in how students engage with learning and how they prepare for real-world challenges. Having worked in various educational settings, from traditional schools to alternative education models, Shiren noticed that many students were disengaged, unmotivated, and unprepared for life beyond school.

The inception of Colossal Academy Online was driven by the need to create a learning environment that fosters curiosity, independence, and a deep connection to real-world applications. Central to Shiren's vision is the concept of inclusivity—not just in terms of economic accessibility, but also in creating a space where every student, regardless of their background or learning style, feels valued and supported.

Shiren's approach is influenced by her belief in experiential learning, where students are not passive recipients of information but active participants in their education. By integrating project-based learning with a focus on social-emotional development, Colossal Academy Online aims to prepare students not just for academic success, but for life as empathetic, informed, and active citizens. This vision has been recognized by various educational platforms, earning the academy accolades for its innovative approach even before its official launch.

Differentiation: What Makes Colossal Academy Online Special

Colossal Academy Online stands out in the crowded field of online education by offering a curriculum that is both flexible and highly engaging. Unlike many online schools that rely on passive learning models, Colossal Academy emphasizes project-based learning, where students actively engage in real-world projects that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.

A key differentiator is the school’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Shiren has implemented a sliding scale for tuition, ensuring that students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds can access high-quality education. Students in New Hampshire, Florida, Arizona and other states can cover the full cost of tuition through ESA’s and microgrants. The program is also designed to be adaptable, allowing students to tailor their learning experiences to their personal interests and strengths. This level of personalization is rare in online education and positions Colossal Academy as a leader in the field.

Additionally, Colossal Academy Online integrates social-emotional learning (SEL) into its curriculum, recognizing that education is not just about academic achievement but also about nurturing well-rounded, emotionally intelligent individuals. The school’s focus on SEL helps students develop resilience, empathy, and self-awareness—skills that are critical in today’s world.

How It Works

Getting started with Colossal Academy Online is designed to be seamless and student-centered. The process begins with an enrollment form on the academy’s website, followed by an initial assessment that helps tailor the curriculum to each student’s needs, interests, and learning style. This assessment is crucial in ensuring that each student’s educational journey is as personalized as possible.

One of the standout features of Colossal Academy Online is its use of AI-driven tools, including the innovative Pathfinder tool. Pathfinder helps students navigate their learning journey by suggesting personalized projects, resources, and activities based on their progress and interests. This AI integration ensures that students are continuously challenged and engaged, while also allowing them to explore subjects that truly excite them.

Students typically spend about 4-6 hours per day on schoolwork, which includes a mix of synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-paced) activities. These activities range from live classes and discussions to independent projects and research. A typical week at Colossal Academy might start with planning sessions where students outline their projects and set goals, followed by focused work periods, group collaborations, and reflection sessions to evaluate their progress.

The curriculum is largely "open and go," meaning that while there are materials to prepare, the resources provided make it easy for students to start learning without needing extensive setup. The program is primarily independent, though younger students may benefit from some parental involvement, particularly in the early stages. The school also offers regular check-ins with teachers to ensure students are staying on track and getting the support they need.

Educational Concepts Taught

Colossal Academy Online covers a wide range of educational concepts designed to equip students with both academic and life skills. These include:

• Critical Thinking: Encouraging analytical and evaluative thinking across all subjects.

• Project Management: Teaching students to plan, execute, and manage projects from start to finish.

• Real-World Applications: Integrating practical skills like financial literacy, coding, and entrepreneurship.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork through group projects and peer feedback.

• Global Citizenship: Emphasizing cultural awareness, social responsibility, and ethical decision-making.

• Communication Skills: Developing strong written and oral communication through various media.

• STEM Education: Focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in practical contexts.

• Artistic Expression: Encouraging creativity through arts, design, and multimedia projects.

• Social-Emotional Learning: Supporting mental health, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

What’s Good About It (What Users Love)

Parents and early adopters of the program are excited about Colossal Academy Online’s innovative, project-based approach. The emphasis on real-world applications is particularly praised, as it helps students see the relevance of what they are learning and how it applies to their lives outside of school. The program’s flexibility is another major plus, allowing students to work at their own pace and pursue topics that genuinely interest them.

Shiren’s background in progressive education shines through in the curriculum’s design, which is both challenging and engaging. Parents also appreciate the school’s commitment to inclusivity, with the sliding scale tuition making high-quality education accessible to a broader demographic. The community that Colossal Academy fosters—where students feel connected, supported, and motivated—is frequently highlighted as one of the school’s greatest strengths.

Who It’s an Ideal Fit For

Colossal Academy Online is an excellent fit for students who thrive in a self-directed, project-based learning environment. It’s particularly well-suited for those who are curious, motivated, and enjoy engaging with real-world problems and solutions. If your child is interested in topics like entrepreneurship, technology, or the arts and enjoys working on hands-on projects, this program could be a perfect match.

The program is also ideal for families who value flexibility in education and want to provide their child with a curriculum that can be tailored to their individual interests and needs. It’s a great option for parents looking for an alternative to traditional schooling, where students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and develop practical skills alongside academic knowledge.

Who It’s Probably Not a Fit For

On the flip side, Colossal Academy Online may not be the best fit for students who need a lot of structure and direct instruction. If your child struggles with self-discipline, time management, or requires frequent guidance, they might find the self-directed nature of the program challenging. Additionally, students who prefer a more traditional learning environment with clear, daily schedules and direct teacher-led instruction may not thrive in this program.

Families who are looking for a conventional online school experience, with a strong emphasis on synchronous classes, standardized testing, and traditional grading, may also find that Colossal Academy Online does not align with their expectations.

Any Advice on How to Get the Most Out of It

To maximize the benefits of Colossal Academy Online, it’s important for parents to stay engaged with their child’s learning. While the program is designed for independence, students often benefit from regular parental involvement, especially when it comes to setting goals and reflecting on their progress. Encouraging your child to participate fully in group projects and to reach out for help when needed can also enhance their experience.

Another piece of advice is to take full advantage of the resources and support offered by the school. This includes attending live sessions, engaging in the online community, and utilizing the feedback provided by teachers. Time management is also key; helping your child develop a routine that includes dedicated time for projects, self-care, and social interaction will ensure a well-rounded educational experience.

Interested in attending an open house at Colossal Academy online? Sign up here!

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