The Founders’ Home Rooted in Purpose and Growing Through Community
The California Microschool Collective (CMC) is a vibrant, community-driven organization dedicated to empowering microschool founders across California. CMC provides essential resources, expert mentorship, and a strong network of innovative educators, supporting founders in their journey to create transformative, student-centered learning environments. Through collaborative networking, engaging events, specialized workshops, and personalized consulting, CMC equips both current and aspiring microschool founders to thrive, fostering impactful and thriving microschool communities. Believing in the power of collaboration and innovation, CMC is reimagining education across the state—one microschool at a time.
Lizette Valles is a visionary educator, Latina leader, and co-founder of the California Microschool Collective, founded in 2024. She also founded Compass Educators and Ellemercito Academy, a non-profit Los Angeles-based microschool that reimagines education through experiential and place-based learning. A first-generation college graduate who holds a Master’s in Education, Lizette has dedicated over 17 years to empowering students to think critically, develop a growth mindset, and foster empathy. She regularly speaks nationally about microschooling and raises awareness about school choice, advocating for personalized, trauma-informed learning environments that allow all children to thrive.
From her early days as a middle/high school teacher to organizing the largest free virtual summer camp in the U.S. during the pandemic, Lizette has consistently pushed the boundaries of conventional education. She’s published a bilingual children’s book, served as the California & Spanish-speaking Field Coordinator for a national nonprofit, and has been recognized as a fellow of the ASU Prep Microschool Entrepreneur Fellowship and recipient of the VELA Next Step and Getting Smart’s Learning Innovation Fund grants. Her work has been featured at Harvard’s Emerging School Models Conference, 74 Million, Cato Institute, and more.
Lizette is a dedicated advocate and community builder, creating nurturing spaces not only for students and families but for founders as well. She believes learning should be natural, joyful, and limitless, and she fosters environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Her vision is to empower others to recognize that they are not defined solely by what they produce; rather, they possess intrinsic worth. She sees learning as a deeply personal journey with the power to break generational cycles and transform limiting patterns. By nurturing agency, personal growth, and the embrace of unique talents, she inspires students and founders alike to contribute meaningfully to their communities, igniting a cycle of inspiration that encourages them to look beyond the possible and envision what can be.
As a first-generation Latino college graduate, Oscar Valles knows firsthand the importance of education as a pathway to opportunity. His personal journey fuels his dedication to fostering spaces where students can grow, achieve, and feel seen—especially those navigating similar experiences. With over 15 years of experience, primarily serving K-8 students, Oscar has transformed classrooms, athletic fields, and communities through his commitment to character-building and experiential learning.
As the lead educator and CFO for Compass Educators, co-founder of the California Microschool Collective, and a former athletic director and coach, Oscar believes that genuine connections are essential for impactful learning. His experience as an English Language Learner (ELL) teacher reflects his passion for helping students reach their full potential, particularly those adjusting to new cultural and school environments.
Now serving as the principal and lead teacher at Ellemercito Academy, Oscar’s enthusiasm for microschooling and project/place-based learning has created a space where students not only thrive academically but also develop strong character and curiosity. His dedication to educational innovation has led him to speak at national conferences, such as the Aurora Institute Symposium and the Hospital Educator and Academic Liaison Association Conference. Through his work, Oscar inspires educators, families, and founders nationwide to reimagine education as a transformative journey—one that builds character, unlocks potential, and champions student-centered, agentic learning. He believes every student deserves the opportunity to take ownership of their growth and uncover their unique strengths, setting them on a path to flourish.
Our parents’ experiences and stories inspire us daily. Here’s what they have to say about their journey with us, sharing insights, positive transformations, and heartfelt moments that make our community truly special.
Join a community where founders experience collaboration, inspiration, and unwavering support. You support your students and staff—let us help support you. From inspiring microschool visits to workshops, collective conversations, and in-person gatherings—find your founder’s home here. Connection is everything, and you’ve found your village. Reach out today to learn more!
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Joining the California Microschool Collective (CMC) means becoming part of a vibrant community of practice dedicated to reimagining education across California. Together, we learn, innovate, and support one another as we strive to create transformative, student-centered learning environments. As a member, you gain access to essential resources, expert mentorship, and a strong network of forward-thinking educators who are committed to making an impact in microschooling.
Founders Collective Membership includes:
Visionary Educator Member
Annually
