The Donnelly’s Daily Apple Microschool launched in 2020 with grades 5-6th. In Fall of 2026, we are re-launching our Lower Middle School Learning Program (Grades 5-6) with hands-on instruction, engaging curriculum and projects, and higher-level learning across content areas.
In Fall 2026, for students in 5th-6th grade, we are offering single or multi-day learning (Tues-Thurs). Families are welcome to enroll in options that work for their schedule, although we recommend enrolling in our 2 or 3-day program.
Our focus for the Lower Middle School Program is the exploration of higher-level concepts, including reflection and essay writing, novel reading, middle school math, critical thinking, and more. Our goal is for our students to pursue curiosity, engage with their learning, and collaborate with peers of all levels.
[For lower elementary options, click here: Kinder/1st, 2nd-4th grade]
*PS: We offer sibling discounts for families enrolling more than one child across our learning programs. Contact us for more info!
Our Focus:
- We believe that curiosity is a guiding force and use this philosophy—alongside a blend of curriculum, activities, and learning games—to guide our investigative learning approach.
- As our students embark into the world of middle school, our goal is to prepare them for learning beyond the classroom: critical thinking/reasoning, forming opinions, writing & speaking their perspectives, and obtaining math skills that will transfer to real-world application.
- We foster cross-curricular connections, as well as peer connections across age groups/levels. As a part of our multi-day programming, our 5th/6th grade learners will engage with peers whom they can learn from as well as have the opportunity to guide.
Details:
- LOCATION: The 2026-2027 programs and ‘pods’ for students in Lower Middle Grades 5th-6th) will be hosted at a private residence in Bay Park/Clairemont, San Diego, California.
The location is a few blocks east of the South Clairemont Park/Rec Center. (Please contact us for more information). - PRICING: Details can be found below:
– 2065-2027 Academic Year:- Honeycrisp 🍎 (Tue 9AM-4PM)
— $400/month - Golden💛 (Thurs 9AM-4PM)
— $400/month
Half-Day Options: - Tuesday “Slice” 🍎🍰(Tuesdays 9AM-1PM OR 12PM-4PM)
- Thursday “Slice” 🍎🍰 (Thursdays 9AM-1PM OR 12PM-4PM)
— $250/month (per session)
To see a breakdown of the class sessions, click here.
- Honeycrisp 🍎 (Tue 9AM-4PM)
- MULTIPLE KIDS: Do you have another kiddos in grades K-6? Ask us about our sibling discounts! [PS: Here is more information about our other programs: Kinder/1st + 2nd-4th grade]
Leadership:
- Marisa Donnelly, MEd. is a Master-level ELA/Reading Teacher with over 15+ years of experience supporting students of all ages, grade levels, and abilities (including SPED), in a variety of educational settings and programs. She is passionate about non-traditional education.
Join Us:
- PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES: Check out this behind-the-scenes video to learn more about what we do!
- CURRENT FAMILIES: If you haven’t already, please join our Donnelly Daily Apple App [on Google Play] or [on Apple].
- Ready to join our Lower Middle School Learning Program? Begin the enrollment process by contacting us to inquire about availability & set up a tour! Or, give us a call (619) 780-5333.