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Microschool Platform Options

Comparison of platforms for Texas church microschools and independent operators.

Last updated: December 26, 2025

Quick Comparison​

PlatformTEFA Eligible for New Schools (Fall 2026)What They ProvidePricingBest For
Prenda✅ Yes (immediate)Complete software platform + curriculum + insurance + training$2,199/student/yearNew microschools launching 2026, churches, TEFA-dependent models
Alpha Schools / 2 Hour Learning❌ No (unless pre-accredited)Proprietary TimeBack AI software platform$10,000/month+ for small pilots; $2,000-$6,500/student for largerEstablished premium schools already TEFA-eligible
KaiPod Learning❌ No (2-3 year path)Training + operational support + community (NO software/curriculum)$249 + 10% revenue OR $15,000 fixedLong-term planning, parent choice priority, you choose your own curriculum

The TEFA Eligibility Question​

Why does TEFA eligibility matter for Fall 2026?

Texas families can access $10,800 per student (up to $30,000 for students with disabilities) starting in the 2026-2027 school year. For many families, this state scholarship makes private microschool education financially viable.

The two-year rule: Texas requires schools to operate for at least two consecutive years before accepting TEFA funds. However, platforms with 2+ years of operation can qualify new partner schools under their umbrella.

Only Prenda has done this work for Texas microschools. Alpha and KaiPod have not created this pathway, meaning new schools using their platforms must wait 2-3 years to accept TEFA funds.

Platform Decision Framework​

If You Need TEFA Eligibility for Fall 2026​

→ Choose Prenda

You don't have other viable options for new schools. Prenda's immediate TEFA eligibility and church-focused approach make it the clear choice for:

  • Church microschools launching 2026
  • Operators dependent on state scholarships for affordability
  • Families who can't afford full tuition out-of-pocket

If You're Willing to Wait 2-3 Years for TEFA​

→ Consider KaiPod or Alpha

Choose KaiPod if:

  • Parent choice and educational autonomy are priorities (you choose your own curriculum/software)
  • You have strong community support and donor base
  • You want training and community support without platform lock-in
  • Budget-conscious (lower costs than Alpha, but you provide your own curriculum)

Choose Alpha if:

  • Premium market positioning ($15,000+ tuition)
  • Established school already meeting TEFA requirements
  • Large student body (100+) for viable unit economics
  • Cutting-edge AI-powered learning is core to your value proposition

If You're Planning a 2027+ Launch​

All platforms remain viable. Your decision should center on:

  • Educational philosophy fit
  • Pricing and unit economics
  • Community and support ecosystem
  • Long-term TEFA strategy

By 2027, you may have additional platform options as the Texas microschool market matures.

Detailed Profiles​

  • Prenda - Turnkey software platform with immediate TEFA eligibility, complete curriculum and operational support, $2,199/student/year
  • Alpha Schools / 2 Hour Learning - Proprietary AI software platform (TimeBack), expensive, replicability concerns, TEFA barriers for new schools
  • KaiPod Learning - Training and operational support organization (NOT a software platform), beloved reputation, you choose your own curriculum, 2-3 year TEFA timeline

Contributing Platform Research​

This is an emerging space. If you have experience with these or other platforms, or if you've navigated TEFA eligibility with a microschool platform, please share your insights.

To contribute, DM garysheng on LinkedIn or X.

This comparison reflects research and conversations with school operators as of December 2025. Platform offerings and TEFA pathways may evolve. Verify current details before making decisions.