Parent FAQs
Looking for a smaller, more supportive school for your child? ReThink Microschools is a K–12 private school in Gilbert, Arizona, serving students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis. Our elementary, middle, and high school programs combine small classes, individualized attention, predictable routines, and strong academics to help students build skills and confidence.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions families ask about ReThink Microschools, autism support, academics, Arizona ESA funding, enrollment, and scheduling a school tour.
School Fit & Eligibility
1. What types of students does ReThink Microschools serve?
ReThink currently enrolls K–12 students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis who can participate successfully in a small classroom environment with teacher support. Our program primarily serves students requiring Level 1 supports. Many of our students may also experience ADHD, executive functioning challenges, or other learning differences; however, an autism diagnosis is currently required for enrollment.
2. How small are the classes at ReThink Microschools?
ReThink classrooms have a maximum of eight students. Small classes allow teachers to understand each child’s strengths and needs, personalize instruction, and closely monitor academic progress. Students benefit from individual attention, meaningful peer connections, and a calmer learning environment.
3. Could ReThink Be a Good Fit for My Child?
ReThink may be a good fit for an academically capable student with autism who benefits from:
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Small classes
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A quieter environment
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Clear routines
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Individual teacher attention
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Executive-functioning support
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Meaningful academic challenge
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A smaller peer community
Every student is different, which is why we encourage families to schedule a campus tour. Meeting your child and learning about their educational experience helps us determine whether ReThink may be an appropriate fit.
4. Is ReThink Microschools an autism school in Gilbert, Arizona?
Yes. ReThink Microschools is a K–12 private school in Gilbert, Arizona, serving students with autism who primarily require Level 1 supports. ReThink's school environment emphasizes small classes, structure, predictable expectations, individualized attention, executive functioning support, and strong student-teacher relationships.
5. Does ReThink support students with autism who also have ADHD?
Yes. Some ReThink students with an ASD diagnosis may also have ADHD, executive-functioning challenges, or other learning differences. An autism diagnosis is currently required for enrollment.
6. What grades does ReThink Microschools serve?
ReThink Microschools serves students in grades K–12 through our elementary, middle, and high school programs. Our small classes and individualized attention help teachers support each student’s learning while maintaining appropriate academic expectations for their grade level.
7. How is ReThink different from a traditional private or public school?
ReThink was created for students who may need something different from the traditional classroom.
Our approach emphasizes:
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Small classes
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Individualized attention
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A quieter and more manageable environment
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Structured routines and clear expectations
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Inquiry-Based Learning
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Hands-on learning
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Executive functioning support
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Strong student-teacher relationships
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Student voice and choice
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Meaningful electives
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Opportunities to develop greater independence
We believe students can be appropriately challenged academically while receiving the structure and support they need to succeed.
8. Do you accept students who require significant behavioral or therapeutic support?
ReThink primarily serves students with ASD requiring Level 1 supports who can participate successfully in a small classroom environment with teacher support. ReThink is not an intensive therapeutic or behavioral program.
9. When should I consider a smaller school for my child?
Parents often begin looking for a smaller school when their child is capable of learning but is becoming overwhelmed, disengaged, anxious about school, distracted, or lost in a larger classroom environment.
A smaller educational environment can provide more opportunities for individual attention, stronger relationships with teachers, clearer routines, and increased accountability.
Academics & Student Life
10. What is Inquiry-Based Learning?
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Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) encourages students to learn through questions, investigation, research, problem-solving, discussion, and hands-on experiences.
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Teachers provide structure and direct instruction while also giving students opportunities to investigate meaningful questions and apply what they are learning.
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This approach can be especially engaging for students who learn best when they understand the purpose behind what they are studying.
11. What academic subjects are offered?
Students receive instruction in core academic subjects, including:
English Language Arts • Mathematics • Science • Social Studies/History
Our academic program combines teacher-led instruction, individual practice, discussion, technology, research, hands-on activities, and inquiry-based learning.
12. What electives does ReThink Microschools offer?
Elective offerings may vary by semester and student interest.
Courses and learning experiences may include areas such as:
Innovation • Digital Media • Entrepreneurship • Life Skills • Culinary • Creative Arts
Electives provide students with opportunities to discover interests, develop practical skills, build confidence, and apply academic skills in meaningful ways.
13. Does ReThink Microschools have a high school program?
Yes. ReThink Microschools serves high school students and provides an academic pathway toward high school graduation.
High school students may also have opportunities to complete college-level coursework through Arizona State University's Universal Learner Courses, with eligible course costs supported by ReThink.
14. How does ReThink support executive functioning?
Executive functioning support is incorporated throughout the school day.
Teachers help students develop skills related to:
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Organization
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Planning
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Starting assignments
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Time management
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Maintaining attention
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Following multi-step directions
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Completing assignments
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Managing materials
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Developing greater academic independence
Rather than treating executive functioning as a separate subject, these skills are reinforced throughout students' daily academic routines.
15. Does ReThink use computers for instruction?
Yes, technology is used when it enhances instruction, research, creativity, or skill development.
However, ReThink is not an online school where students spend the entire day independently working on computers.
Students receive teacher-led instruction and participate in discussions, hands-on activities, collaborative learning, inquiry-based projects, independent work, and individualized academic support.
16. What are the school hours?
The regular ReThink Microschools schedule is:
Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM–2:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM–12:30 PM
17. Does ReThink assign homework?
We do not assign homework. Our goal is to use the school day effectively and provide students with the structure and support necessary to complete meaningful academic work.
18. Is ReThink Microschools accredited?
ReThink Microschools is currently pursuing accreditation through Cognia.
ESA Funding
19. Does ReThink Microschools accept Arizona ESA funding?
Yes. ReThink Microschools works with families participating in Arizona's Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program.
Arizona ESA funds may help eligible families pay for private-school educational expenses.
Families who are new to the ESA program can also receive guidance and resources to help them better understand the process.
Tours, Shadow Days & Enrollment
20. Can my child visit ReThink before we enroll?
Yes. Your child will need to visit ReThink before enrollment so we can get to know them and discuss whether our school is an appropriate fit. A campus tour gives families an opportunity to see the learning environment, learn about our academic approach, meet members of our team, and ask questions. Prospective students may also have an opportunity to participate in a Shadow Day.
21. What is a Shadow Day?
A Shadow Day allows a prospective student to experience ReThink firsthand.
Students can spend part of the school day on campus, meet teachers and students, participate in classroom activities, and experience the structure and atmosphere of the school.
The experience also gives our team an opportunity to learn more about the student and determine whether ReThink is an appropriate educational fit.
22. Do you accept students transferring from public, charter, or other private schools?
Yes. ReThink considers students transferring from public schools, charter schools, private schools, and other educational programs. Transfer students must meet our enrollment requirements, including an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis and the ability to participate successfully in a small classroom environment with teacher support. Schedule a campus tour to discuss your child’s current academic experience and whether ReThink may be an appropriate fit.
23. Do you offer school tours?
Yes. Prospective families are encouraged to schedule a private campus tour of ReThink Microschools in Gilbert. During your visit, you can see our learning environment, learn more about our programs, discuss your child's needs, and ask questions about admissions and Arizona ESA funding.
24. Should my child attend the campus tour?
We encourage you to bring your child to the campus tour so they can explore the school and meet our team. You are welcome to tour on your own first. However, your child will need to visit before enrollment so we can get to know them and determine together whether ReThink is an appropriate fit.
25. Will I see classrooms and meet staff?
You’ll see our classrooms and meet with a member of our team to learn about daily life at ReThink. Opportunities to meet individual teachers depend on the time of your visit and staff availability.
26. Where should I park and enter?
Our campus is located at 331 S Cooper Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85233. Park near the small office at the northwest corner of the parking lot. Follow the sidewalk around the building; our entrance is the second door on the left.
27. How do I enroll my child at ReThink Microschools?
Begin by scheduling a private campus tour. During your visit, we will learn about your child, explain our academic program and school environment, and answer your questions. Your child will also need to visit before enrollment. If your family and our team agree that ReThink is an appropriate fit, we will explain the next steps in the enrollment process.
Looking for a Smaller School for Your Child?
If your child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis and would benefit from small classes, predictable routines, individualized attention, and strong academics, schedule a private tour of ReThink Microschools in Gilbert. Meet our team, explore the campus, and discuss whether our K–12 program may be an appropriate fit for your child.