Empowering Young Learners: Leslie Cooley’s Bold Vision at Providence Academy
In a world where educational paradigms are rapidly evolving, Leslie Cooley is blazing a new trail in Gainesville with Providence Academy, a learner-driven micro school affiliated with the Acton Academy model. In this inspiring episode of North Georgia Business Radio, host Phil Bonelli sits down with Leslie to explore the unique ethos behind Providence Academy and how it’s redefining what learning looks like for K-5 students.
Leslie Cooley, founder of Providence Academy, shares the deeply personal and prayerful journey that led her to launch the school. With a passion for individualized learning and a desire to provide a nurturing, small-scale environment for her son and others, Leslie built Providence Academy around three core principles: small class sizes, a learner-driven approach, and no homework.
The Acton model, which underpins the academy, replaces traditional teachers with Socratic guides — adults who ask questions rather than provide answers.
This fosters independence and critical thinking among students, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. From setting SMART goals to working through challenges independently, students are taught how to problem-solve and grow in confidence.
Leslie discusses how the school started with just two students and has now expanded to 22, maintaining its mission to remain intentionally small. She reflects on the importance of letting kids “slay lions” early in life, learning through struggle in a supportive, loving environment. The result? Children who are confident, competent, and prepared to tackle real-world challenges.
Another standout feature of Providence is the mixed-age “studio” format.
Instead of traditional grade-separated classrooms, students learn in a one-room-schoolhouse model that balances old-school community values with modern technology. The school also emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning through quarterly “quests,” which include architecture, entrepreneurship, and a community garden.
Leslie’s story is not just about education—it’s about vision, faith, and the courage to innovate.
Whether you’re a parent exploring alternatives to traditional schooling or a community member inspired by bold leadership, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement.
Connect with Leslie and the Providence Academy Team
To learn more or inquire about enrollment, visit providencegainesville.com
Connect with Phil Bonelli:
https://www.facebook.com/Hopewell-Farms-GA-105614501707618/
https://www.instagram.com/hopewellfarmsga/
https://www.hopewellfarmsga.com/
Connect with Beau Henderson:
https://www.facebook.com/RichLifeAdvisors
https://www.facebook.com/NorthGARadioX
This Segment Is Brought To You By Our Amazing Sponsors
Hopewell Farms GA
Roundtable Advisors
RichLife Advisors
Regions Bank
Highlights of the Show:
00:29 – 02:12 — Leslie Cooley shares the origin story of Providence Academy and its bold start just before a school year began.
02:12 – 03:49 — Introduction to the Acton model: a learner-driven, micro school concept focused on independence.
03:49 – 05:44 — Socratic guides replace teachers; students grow through struggle, learning self-confidence and agency.
06:10 – 08:34 — Why small class size and emotional safety matter; real learning happens when kids are seen and supported.
11:30 – 14:05 — Leslie’s leap of faith to start the school, driven by a calling and a desire for more than the status quo.
16:44 – 18:12 — Launching with just two students; creating structure and excellence from day one.
18:12 – 19:16 — Socratic discussions as daily “launches” to teach moral reasoning and critical thinking.
20:05 – 25:41 — Why Providence bans homework; challenging the paradigm of traditional schooling.
27:57 – 30:03 — The studio model: mixed-age learning fosters maturity, leadership, and community.
30:30 – 34:05 — Technology in learning: gamified platforms for math and language arts, tailored to individual pace.
36:23 – 38:45 — Real-world quests like entrepreneurship and architecture build curiosity and practical skills.
