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What happens when standardized education doesn't fit your child's unique learning style? For Lauri Muse, watching her son struggle in traditional school settings despite wonderful teachers sparked a journey that would ultimately benefit many Northern Kentucky families.

Muse shares the heartbreaking moment that catalyzed her educational revolution: hearing her young son declare "I'm really dumb" and "I'm not smart." After years of successfully homeschooling six of her seven children, she knew her active, group-oriented son needed something different—but full-time public or private schooling wasn't the answer either. Her research into micro-schooling led to the creation of World of Wonder, a hybrid educational program that combines the flexibility of homeschooling with structured, hands-on learning experiences.

World of Wonder operates three days weekly (Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30-3:00 pm), with students officially registered as homeschoolers. The program emphasizes outdoor learning, with children spending 90 minutes outside daily across different segments. Small class sizes—approximately one teacher to 8-12 students—allow educators to truly know each child and customize learning to their interests and needs. This arrangement proves particularly valuable for working parents who want homeschooling benefits without managing full-time home education.

The micro-schooling movement represents a significant shift in educational approaches. Rather than working within standardized systems where teachers face mounting mandates and restrictions, micro-schools like World of Wonder create environments where educators can fully utilize their training and creativity. Many experienced teachers are leaving traditional systems for these settings where they can differentiate instruction and truly connect with students as individuals.

Located at Union Presbyterian Church near Ryle High School in Union, Kentucky, World of Wonder is currently accepting new students (especially ages 8-12) for their program. Muse invites interested parents to reach out through their website (worldofwondernky.com) or email (lauri@worldofwondernky.com) to learn how this educational alternative might help "keep the wonder in your child's eyes" or recultivate that natural spark of curiosity that makes learning joyful and meaningful.

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Amy Gillispie transforms education through creativity and passion at Building Brilliant Minds, where architecture, art, and music blend into a unique learning experience for homeschooled students worldwide. What began in 2009 as architecture lessons for her nine children has evolved into a global educational platform connecting students across continents through project-based learning.

Drawing from her Ohio State architecture degree and recent master's in art education, Amy crafts courses that make complex subjects accessible and engaging. Her Introduction to Architecture essentially delivers sophomore-level undergraduate content adapted for younger students, while specialized courses like "Marvel Movies and Art" and "Lord of the Rings and Narnia in Art" spark creativity through beloved stories. Students from Kentucky to New Zealand, Australia, and Hong Kong gather via Zoom to sketch, design, and express themselves artistically.

The Simply Music method Amy uses for piano instruction exemplifies her innovative approach. Rather than traditional notation, students learn through patterns and shapes, enabling them to play complex pieces within weeks. This methodology perfectly complements her architectural teaching and demonstrates how making learning tactile and visual can accelerate skill development. Meanwhile, her Chromatic Compositions business represents the fascinating intersection of her talents, translating music into visual art through color theory and neurographic lines.

Amy's journey reflects the evolution of homeschooling itself. She notes that today's challenge isn't the stereotypical concern about socialization but rather managing the abundance of opportunities available to homeschooled students. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a public school student seeking independent study options, or simply curious about alternative educational approaches, Amy's work demonstrates how passion-driven, project-based learning can build brilliant minds. Discover more at buildingbrilliantmindsonline.com or connect directly at hsarchitecture@iCloud.com to explore how architecture, art, and music can transform education.

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Sweet treats are coming to Boone County! After nearly a year of planning, local residents Christa and Bob Moore are bringing Rita's Italian Ice and Frozen Custard to Northern Kentucky. In this candid conversation, Krista reveals how annual family vacation stops at Rita's in Florida sparked a passion that's now becoming a community business venture.

Rita's isn't your typical frozen dessert shop. With over 600 locations across 30 states, this East Coast favorite offers Italian ice that's smoother than a snow cone with a sherbet-like consistency made from water and natural fruit. Their signature "gelati" combines layers of this flavorful ice with creamy frozen custard for a unique treat that has developed what Christa describes as a "cult-like following." From classic mango (a top seller) to creative flavors like Skittles, plus frozen coffees, lemonades, and more, there's something for everyone.

Located at 7220 Burlington Pike near Boone County High School, the new Rita's will occupy the former Drinkology space, complete with a convenient drive-thru window. The Moores, who've called Oakbrook home for 26 years, are making this truly a family business – Bob brings food service management experience, Christa contributes marketing expertise, and their adult children (two with business degrees) are all involved in various capacities. With plans to open this fall, they're preparing to hire managers, shift leads, and team members starting in August. As Krista beautifully puts it: "We just really wanted a place where people can come make memories, have a few moments outside of the crazy world and just be happy." Follow their journey on Facebook and prepare your taste buds for a delicious new community gathering spot where happiness is served daily.