Workshop: Intro to homeschooling in NYC
Please join us for a free introduction to homeschooling workshop with some of the most influential movers and shapers in the NYC homeschooling movement at Brooklyn Apple Academy, Brooklyn’s own hub for homeschoolers.
Where: Brooklyn Apple Academy
545 5th Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11215
When: Thursday, August 29 at 11am EST.
Intro to Homeschooling in NYC
Please join us for a free introduction to homeschooling workshop with some of the most influential movers and shapers in the NYC homeschooling movement: Noah Mayers (Founder of Brooklyn Apple Academy), Laurie Spigel (Author, Educator, fand founder of Homeschool NYC) and Bill Beckler (Homeschool dad of three and co-founder of Modulo). The panel will be facilitated by Manisha Snoyer (co-founder of Modulo and leader of the modular learning movement which spans 72 countries) In this meeting, we’ll explore all the ins and outs of homeschooling in NYC including finding local programs, co-ops and homeschool classes, complying with local laws and regulations, creating a schedule, finding tutors, making friends, choosing local and online classes, how to afford homeschooling - and joining or starting a homeschool co-op. We’ll also dive into topics like encouraging self-directed learning in kids, boosting math confidence and raising gifted learners. We’ll leave a large portion of the workshop open for Q & A’s.
Noah Mayers
Noah, the founder of Brooklyn Apple Academy, has been a teaching artist, puppeteer, and artisan since 2001. He has had the honor of teaching at such august institutions as Eugene Lang College/New School University, Village Community School, LEAP, R.A.D. School, Brooklyn Free School, and with Teachers and Writers Collaborative. Noah is passionate about exploring the unique learning environment of New York City. He’s thrilled to share his enthusiasm for investigating the mechanisms that give the city life. As a young adult, he was inspired by his alternative schooling experience, and he is honored to pass on the same gift.
Laurie Block Spigel
Laurie Block Spigel is an author, educator, and homeschooling advocate with over forty years of experience. She homeschooled her two sons in New York City, where she created the website HomeschoolNYC.com, and taught popular homeschool classes. Laurie has lectured at conferences and written articles, including the HomeschoolNYC newsletter. Her first book, Education Uncensored (2006), critiques America’s educational system and offers homeschooling insights. Her latest book, Letting Them Lead: Adventures in Game-Based, Self-Directed Learning, includes curricula created with and for her students. Now living in Maine with her husband and cat, Laurie continues to write, teach, and advocate for homeschooling. More info at laurieblockspigel.com.
Bill Beckler
Bill Beckler is the CTO at Modulo, where he leverages his tech expertise and deep knowledge of learning theories to innovate homeschooling solutions. A homeschooling father of three, Bill is dedicated to child-directed education, applying these principles both at home and in his work. With leadership experience in top tech companies, Bill focuses on building tools that empower parents to personalize their children's education. He holds a J.D. from Columbia Law School and a B.A. in Mathematics and Physics from Colgate University, showcasing his commitment to learning and problem-solving.
Manisha Snoyer
This workshop will be led by Manisha Snoyer, founder and CEO of Modulo, a company dedicated to supporting homeschooling communities. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Manisha has guided more than 2,000 students of all ages and abilities. During the early stages of the pandemic, she created Schoolclosures.org—a collaborative effort among 80 organizations—that provided critical resources to over 100,000 parents navigating the challenges of homeschooling. Manisha has personally consulted with thousands of parents, including some of the tech world’s leading entrepreneurs and investors, gaining deep insights into the needs and concerns of those educating their children at home. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Brandeis University.
