By , Clinical Psychologist and Author

At a time when teen anxiety, overwhelm, and disconnection are at an all-time high, many parents and educators are asking the same question: What do teenagers actually need in order to thrive?

After nearly two decades of working with teens as a clinical psychologist, I’ve come to believe that the answer is often simpler, and more human, than we realize.

Teens do not thrive because we push them harder. They thrive when they feel safe, connected, understood, and supported.

Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with families and educators at 91����’s grand opening celebration about what I call “The 4 C’s”: a framework for understanding what teenagers need emotionally and psychologically in order to grow.

At the core of this framework is an important truth: Regulation comes before insight.

If a teen’s nervous system doesn’t feel safe, they cannot access the parts of themselves that reflect, process, learn, or grow. That’s why emotional safety and connection are not extras in a teenager’s development. They are foundational.

The 4 C’s Teens Need to Thrive

1. Connection

Today’s teens are more digitally connected than ever before, yet many feel profoundly disconnected emotionally from others and from themselves. Connection is the foundation.

It’s the feeling of:

• Trust
• Safety
• Comfort
• Being able to relax and be oneself

Teens need connection with trusted adults, peers, mentors, teachers, and perhaps most importantly, themselves. In a world filled with constant stimulation, comparison, and pressure, many teens lose touch with their own emotions, values, and needs.

Helping teens reconnect with themselves can look like:

• Mindfulness and slowing down
• Physical movement
• Creative expression
• Journaling
• Time in nature
• Conversations without judgment

Connection to others matters just as much. Sometimes a single teacher, coach, mentor, or parent who listens consistently can become a stabilizing force in a teenager’s life.

Connection is not simply about proximity. It’s about whether a teen feels safe enough to truly be themselves.

2. Community

Connection is closeness. Community is belonging.

A teen may feel connected to one person but still feel isolated if they don’t believe they fit anywhere. One of the strongest protective factors in adolescence is a sense of belonging.

Teens need spaces where they can think:

• “I fit here.”
• “People understand me.”
• “I’m not alone.”

Community can come from:

• Schools
• Sports teams
• Creative programs
• Clubs
• Faith communities
• Friend groups
• Shared interests

But belonging only happens when teens are allowed to show up authentically. Too often, we unintentionally push teens toward environments that align with expectations rather than who they actually are. When teenagers find spaces where they feel accepted and valued, their nervous systems relax. They become more present, engaged, and emotionally resilient.

3. Curiosity

One of the most powerful ways adults can support teens is through curiosity… without an agenda. This means engaging with them not to correct, lecture, or fix them, but simply to understand them.

When teens feel understood, they feel seen. And feeling seen is deeply regulating.

Curiosity can sound like:

• “Can you tell me more about that?”
• “What do you like about this?”
• “Can you show me your favorite song or game?”
• “What’s been on your mind lately?”

Often, the most meaningful conversations happen indirectly:

• During car rides
• While watching a show together
• Walking the dog
• Sitting beside each other instead of face-to-face

Curiosity communicates:
“You matter.”
“Your inner world matters.”
“I want to know who you are.”

That feeling stays with teens, even when they don’t fully open up in the moment.

Bonus C: Catch Them Doing It Right

Teenagers are developmentally wired to make mistakes, test limits, and act impulsively. Because of this, adults can unintentionally spend most of their energy correcting them.

But teens also desperately need to feel valued. One simple but powerful shift is intentionally noticing when they are showing up well.

Small acknowledgments matter:

• “Thank you for communicating with me.”
• “I appreciated how responsible you were.”
• “I noticed the effort you put into that.”
• “You handled that thoughtfully.”

These moments strengthen relationships and reinforce a teen’s sense of self-worth.

4. Coaching

Only after a teen feels:

• Safe
• Connected
• Seen
• Valued

…do they become truly open to guidance. This is why coaching comes last. Without emotional attunement first, guidance can feel like criticism, pressure, or disconnection. Many adults jump too quickly into problem-solving before first helping a teen feel emotionally safe.

A simple phrase I often use is: Attunement before coaching.

When teenagers feel emotionally understood first, they become far more receptive to feedback, perspective, and growth.

Meeting Teens Where They Are

One of the most powerful things we can do for teenagers is stop asking, “How do we make them fit the system better?” and instead ask: “What does this particular teen need in order to thrive?”

That mindset shift changes everything.

It creates room for flexibility, compassion, creativity, and connection. When teens feel safe, connected, valued, and understood, they don’t just cope better. They grow, heal and they discover themselves.

And from there, real learning, both emotional and academic, becomes possible.

Dr. Leah Katz is a clinical psychologist, speaker, and author of Gutsy: Mindfulness Practices for Everyday Bravery. Her work focuses on anxiety, mindfulness, emotional wellness, and helping individuals live more authentic and connected lives. To connect with her, visit:

The post What Teens Really Need to Thrive: Understanding the Emotional Foundations of Growth appeared first on Palm Beach International.

91����, a Stanza Education School, Celebrates Grand Opening with Teen Mental Health Expert Dr. Leah Katz

March 26, 2026 – BOCA RATON, Fla.–()–As families across South Florida seek educational environments that better support both academic success and student well-being, 91����, a Stanza Education School (PBIA SES) is opening its doors to serve as a new resource for students who benefit from a more personalized and flexible approach to learning.

“Families are increasingly recognizing that traditional school models don’t work for every student. 91���� was created to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally.”

91���� will celebrate the opening of its new campus at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus with a Grand Opening event that brings together educators, families, youth-support professionals, and community leaders for an afternoon of connection, conversation, and campus exploration.

The event will feature a special presentation by local psychologist and teen mental health advocate Dr. Leah Katz, who will discuss the increasing pressures facing today’s adolescents and the importance of environments that support the whole child.

During her talk, Dr. Katz will introduce her “4 C’s Framework” for helping teens thrive: a practical approach that helps parents, educators, and mentors foster resilience, engagement, and emotional well-being in young people.

The conversation comes at a critical time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, nearly 40% of Florida high school students report experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, highlighting the growing need for supportive environments that address both academic success and student well-being.

“Families are increasingly recognizing that traditional school models don’t work for every student,” said Lori Kubach, Head of School at 91����. “91���� was created to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally while providing the personalized guidance and flexibility they need to succeed.”

91���� serves middle and high school students through a personalized, flexible learning model designed for learners who benefit from smaller class sizes, individualized pacing, and strong academic mentorship. The school provides an especially supportive option for student-athletes, performers, and students navigating anxiety, burnout, or transitions within their educational journey.

Guests attending the Grand Opening will have the opportunity to hear Dr. Katz’s keynote presentation, tour the new campus, meet the school’s leadership and academic team, and connect with local professionals who support youth and families throughout Palm Beach County.

For more information about 91����, visit  or contact (561) 735-5773.

About 91����

91����, a Stanza Education School (PBIA SES), is an accredited, non-profit, hybrid college-preparatory private school for students in grades 6–12 in Boca Raton, Florida. PBIA SES delivers a personalized, student-centered education within small learning communities, supported by flexible scheduling and individualized guidance from Academic Coaches, Teachers, and Tutors. With Cognia accreditation and a robust course catalog, PBIA SES empowers students to learn anytime, anywhere while preparing them for success in higher education and beyond.

Contact

Laura Loughead, Director of Communications
(661) 571-1660
info@StanzaEd.org

The post New Boca Raton School Opens to Meet Growing Demand for Personalized Education and Teen Support appeared first on Palm Beach International.

Changing schools in the middle of the year can feel big, emotional, and even a little scary, but for many students, it’s also the moment they finally feel seen, heard, and understood. When a student says, “This doesn’t feel right anymore,” it’s not a sign of failure. It’s a sign of self-awareness and courage.

There are countless reasons, and each one deserves empathy rather than judgment. Some common themes we see include:

Social Environment Misalignment

A student may feel out of place socially, and that disconnect can be incredibly heavy for them to carry. Maybe they struggle to make meaningful connections, feel misunderstood by peers or teachers, or sense that the school culture doesn’t match who they are. These experiences can lead to withdrawal, anxiety, or a feeling of simply not fitting in. When students say they’re lonely or disconnected, they’re naming something real, and it’s a powerful signal that a different environment could help them thrive.

Academic Overwhelm or Under-Stimulation

Learning isn’t one-speed-fits-all. For some students, the pace feels relentless—assignments pile up, comprehension slips, and stress grows until it becomes overwhelming. For others, the pace is too slow, leaving them disengaged, bored, or frustrated. And many students simply learn best in ways that traditional classrooms can’t always support. When academics feel like a mismatch, students often begin doubting their abilities, even though the real issue is the environment, not their potential.

Stress, Anxiety, or Health-Related Needs

Life doesn’t pause for the school calendar. Students may be managing anxiety, medical conditions, therapeutic needs, family transitions, or travel that makes a rigid school day feel impossible. In many traditional settings, there isn’t enough flexibility or support to honor these realities. When the structure itself begins adding pressure rather than alleviating it, students may feel overwhelmed or misunderstood. A school environment that offers space, grace, and flexibility can make an enormous difference.

Loss of Motivation and Joy

School should inspire students—spark curiosity, build confidence, and encourage exploration. But when a student begins to dread learning, shows signs of burnout, or loses excitement for the subjects they once enjoyed, it’s worth paying attention. This shift is often a sign that something deeper is happening. A fresh start can help students reconnect with what they love about learning and rediscover their natural motivation.

A Desire for More Personalized, Flexible Learning

Some students simply thrive in settings that break away from traditional structures. They flourish when given autonomy, individualized attention, and the opportunity to pursue learning at their own pace. These students aren’t “different” in a negative sense—they’re deeply self-aware. They know what helps them succeed, and they’re seeking a model of education that supports their strengths, their interests, and their growth.

At 91����, we specialize in supporting students who need a different kind of learning experience, one shaped around who they are and how they learn, so they can truly thrive, not just adapt.

Here’s how we support a smooth transition:

• Personalized onboarding: We take the time to truly understand each student, their learning preferences, their comfort level, their academic background, and what they need to feel supported. Our onboarding isn’t rushed or generic, it’s individualized and designed to help students feel grounded from day one.
• Flexible schedules and pathways: Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is learning at PBIA. Students can blend in-person and online learning, adjust their pace, and build a schedule that actually fits their needs. This flexibility removes unnecessary pressure and helps students succeed in a way that feels sustainable.
• Authentic relationships and mentorship: Our teachers don’t just deliver lessons, they build relationships. Students are known, valued, and supported by adults who care deeply about their growth. This consistent mentorship often becomes the turning point for learners who felt overlooked or disconnected elsewhere.
• Emotional safety and a sense of belonging: We create a space where students feel safe to ask questions, make mistakes, express themselves, and breathe again. Belonging is the foundation of learning, and we make sure every student feels seen and supported.
• Opportunities to rediscover joy in learning: For many students, a mid-year switch is the moment they finally come back to life academically. Whether it’s reconnecting with a subject they love, finding a new passion, or simply feeling confident again, our goal is to help learning feel meaningful and energizing.

Switching mid-year doesn’t mean something went wrong, it often means a student is ready for an environment that fits who they are and who they’re becoming.

Your child’s story isn’t paused.

It’s just turning the page, and the next chapter can be extraordinary. Let’s talk about whether 91���� is the right next chapter. We’re here to listen, support, and guide.

The post A New School, A New Start: Understanding Mid-Year Transitions appeared first on Palm Beach International.

91����, a Stanza Education School, is thrilled to welcome Miss Jennifer Russo to our faculty as our new STEM teacher. With a deep love for science, a gift for making complex ideas accessible, and a belief in the power of personalized learning, Miss Russo is already inspiring curiosity and creativity in her students.

A Journey Fueled by Curiosity

Miss Russo’s path to STEM education began with a simple truth: she loves talking about science. “I have a passion for learning and fine-tuning explanations,” she shares. “A career in STEM education seemed like the most fitting way to love what I do.”

Her pivotal moment came during her first year of college, when a physics professor introduced a lab-based hybrid model that encouraged students

to discover concepts through hands-on experimentation. “It fascinated me,” Miss Russo recalls. “I changed my major to Physics after that class. It challenged me to always look for new ways students could learn.”

That same spirit of innovation drew her to PBIA. “I truly believe PBIA’s hybrid learning model is the most efficient way for students to learn,” she says. “It fosters respect and autonomy, which are qualities I see lacking in most other educational systems.”

Making STEM Real and Relevant

Miss Russo’s teaching philosophy is rooted in real-world application and interdisciplinary learning. “All STEM topics, including math, can be taught through real-world applications,” she explains. “I like to incorporate student interests and combine STEM with other academic subjects. It gives every student a chance to succeed and challenges those already confident in STEM to stretch beyond their comfort zone.”

Her favorite hands-on project? The legendary Egg Drop Challenge, where students use physics principles to safely land an egg from a great height. This year, she’s excited to introduce two new projects: the Punnett Whodunit, a genetics-based mystery-solving activity, and constructing a lemon battery to power a timer.

Miss Russo also places a high value on student questions. “Curiosity fades when questions aren’t taken seriously,” she says. “I strive to answer every question, whether it’s a review of basic material or a complex, out-of-the-box inquiry. Even if it’s unrelated to the lesson, I praise the creativity to encourage them to keep asking.”

Beyond the Classroom

When she’s not teaching, Miss Russo’s passions continue to fuel her creativity. She’s an avid learner of all things STEM, and she also enjoys singing, musical theatre, puzzles, and video games. And here’s a fun fact her students might not expect: she can yodel!

If she could have dinner with any scientist, she wouldn’t hesitate to choose Richard Feynman. “Nobody understood STEM teaching and simplifying complex topics like he did,” she says.

Miss Russo embodies the spirit of PBIA: curious, creative, and committed to helping students discover their own paths to understanding. We’re so excited to have her on our team and can’t wait to see the sparks she’ll ignite with our students.

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Microschools are gaining popularity these days. And with good reason. With the nation’s public school system continuing to stagnate as a result of antiquated, one-size-fits-all learning models, more and more microschools are popping up across the country.

What are microschools?

So, what are microschools? They’re very small, private institutions that provide a personalized learning environment for students. And they’re really growing in popularity because of their flexibility, innovation, tailored learning models, and the lack of public school bureaucracy, mandated curriculum, and standardized testing.

Microschools are designed to challenge “traditional” forms of education by tailoring learning to the specific needs of each individual student–something public and private schools simply can’t accommodate! This type of education model is becoming more appealing to parents who want a more academic choices for their child, and to students who either don’t feel challenged or who struggle to keep up in traditional school.

How do microschools operate?

A microschool usually involves a limited number of students getting together in someone’s home, a local community center, a library, or even a church. In microschools, you may see some students working on projects and activities while others learn from a personalized curriculum delivered by a parent, a teacher, or a facilitator who leads the discussion.

Microschools focus on each student by using lessons and curriculum specific to them. And one of the best things about microschools? They’re not tied to mandatory lesson plans, so the facilitator or teacher could switch to another subject or topic based on the discussion happening in the classroom! This is instruction and education at its most organic.

Because microschools usually aren’t regulated, they don’t rely on the outdated processes of traditional school systems. Microschools can introduce new technology and innovations on a whim, and they can try different curricula until the right match is found! And they’re agile enough to individually serve many types of students, including those with learning disabilities as well as gifted kids.

How 91���� is different from typical microschools

If there is a downside to some microschools, it’s that the lack of regulation and oversight could lead to unqualified and uncertificated people serving as teachers. This is one of the many things that sets 91����, a Stanza Education School (PBIA SES), in Boca Raton, Florida, apart from the rest!

Like other microschools, PBIA SES offers a flexible, personalized learning model to set each student up for future success. But that’s where the similarities end in comparison to other microschools…and we consider that to be a great thing!

Here’s what 91���� provides our students, which most other microschools don’t…or can’t.

1. Accreditation

Enrolling your child in an accredited private school ensures they’re receiving a high-quality education that has been accepted nationally and internationally. That’s a big deal when graduation time rolls around and students are looking to apply to colleges and universities!

The accreditation process demonstrates to schools, colleges, and universities worldwide that credits were earned through rigorous, standards-based curriculum. And since that process is ongoing, the school must demonstrate how well their policies, programs, and practices are working together to meet the needs of every learner. 91���� holds ourselves to the highest standards of excellence to maintain our accreditation through Cognia. That helps PBIA SES stand apart from other local microschools. We’re also proud to offer courses that are approved by both the NCAA and College Board!

2. Credentialed, Certified Teachers

Some microschools have certified teachers–but many don’t. 91���� does! Our instructors are credentialed, certified, and experienced with our student-centered educational model. And they are subject matter experts who are fully qualified to instruct students both in-person and online.

Our teachers are more than just instructors though. They serve as guides, mentors, and facilitators, providing students with the tools and support necessary to achieve their academic and future goals. Our teachers and Academic Coaches inspire curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and offer guidance while allowing students to take ownership of their learning journey.

3. In-Person and Virtual Support

Unlike most microschools, which operate primarily in person, PBIA offers the best of both worlds when it comes to academic support! Our students thrive in a flexible, hybrid educational environment where they can do their schoolwork on campus, at home, or wherever their lives take them! Either way, they always have access to our dedicated Academic Coaches and teacher support.

4. Robust Course Catalog

By offering more than 300 online courses–including middle and upper school classes, such as fun electives, Honors, Advanced Placement^®, and world languages–91���� offers our students a much wider variety of engaging classes than a typical microschool would.

5. Our Beautiful Campus

Unlike other microschools, 91����’s microschool is a full campus that offers a hybrid learning experience unlike any other! This innovative environment combines in-person instruction with online learning, allowing our students to collaborate on projects and receive personalized guidance from our dedicated educators.

PBIA SES makes its home in the state-of-the-art Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC), and it is awesome! It has everything a student could possibly want or need, like two coffee shops, walking trails with a lake view, a grab-and-go snack shop, outdoor space to enjoy lunch or do schoolwork, convenient access to off-campus food and shopping, and more! Our campus is a home away from home for students.

PBIA SES Sets the Standard for Microschools

If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional schooling, microschools are an ideal choice with their emphasis on personalized learning in a small class environment. Keep in mind, though, that most microschools are unregulated, unaccredited, and can essentially hire anyone to teach. 

91����, a Stanza Education School, is not like other microschools!
We are accredited, our teachers are highly qualified and certified subject matter experts, and we offer a flexible and highly supportive hybrid learning environment on a beautiful campus. And that makes PBIA SES unlike any other microschool you may find! To learn more about 91����, call us at (561) 735-5773 or apply here!

The post 91����, a Stanza Education School: Not Your Typical Microschool appeared first on Palm Beach International.

91����, Boca Raton is thrilled to welcome our new Head of School, Ms. Lori Kubach, an experienced and passionate educator who brings over three decades of leadership, innovation, and heart to our community. With a career spanning kindergarten through high school, and a deep commitment to personalized, student-centered learning, we’re excited to introduce a leader who truly embodies the mission and vision of PBIA.

A Lifetime Dedicated to Education

With more than 30 years in education, Ms. Kubach has served in a wide range of roles—from classroom teacher to academic dean, principal, and most recently, Associate Head of School. Over the years, she has taught every grade level and helped launch new schools from the ground up: developing curriculum, hiring exceptional educators, and designing learning environments tailored to students’ needs.

A Community That Inspires

When asked what excites her most about becoming part of the PBIA community, she doesn’t hesitate.

“I’m joining a community that sees each student as a unique learner and honors their path with flexibility and heart. I’m especially inspired by the creativity embedded in their microschool model—how it invites both educators and students to think differently about what school can be. I see it as a place where innovation and human connection come together, and that’s where I thrive.”

A Leader Rooted in Purpose

Student-centered learning isn’t just a buzzword for her—it’s a guiding principle. “To me, it means putting the learner’s voice, pace, and purpose at the core of the experience. It’s about co-creating the educational journey, meeting students where they are, and guiding them toward where they want to go—academically and personally.”

Her approach to leadership reflects these values. She leads with compassion, clarity, and collaboration. “I believe in being transparent with communication, consistent in expectations, and deeply supportive of people’s potential. I also value humor and joy. We do serious work, but we should never take ourselves too seriously. Schools should be places of both rigor and warmth.”

Relationships at the Heart of Everything

When it comes to building meaningful relationships with students, families, and educators, she believes it starts with listening. “At the heart of everything I do is connection. I take time to learn people’s stories, their goals, and what matters most to them. Whether through classroom visits, family meetings, or informal conversations, I invest in relationships by being present, authentic, and collaborative.”

Supporting Purposeful Growth

In a non-traditional academic environment like PBIA, helping students discover their passions and purpose is a key priority. “Curiosity is where the best learning begins. At PBIA, students have the freedom to explore, create, and go beyond the typical classroom experience. My job is to walk alongside them, helping them ask meaningful questions, try things they’ve never done before, and reflect on what those experiences mean to them. That’s where purpose starts to take shape.”

A Moment That Shaped Her Career

Reflecting on her journey, she recalls one of the most impactful experiences in her career: helping to build a brand-new school from the ground up.

“It was both exhilarating and humbling. From designing curriculum to shaping learning spaces and assembling a passionate team, every part of the process was a chance to dream and innovate. Seeing students walk through the doors of a school we created with care and intention—that’s something I’ll never forget. It continues to shape how I lead today.”

Life Outside the Classroom

Outside of school, she finds joy in decorating, gardening, running, and spending time with her three children—two of whom are currently in college. “I love creating spaces that feel warm and welcoming, and I bring that same energy into the school environment. I also have a passion for costume design—there’s something magical about storytelling through creativity. And nature grounds me. Whether I’m in the garden or running along the ocean, it helps me stay balanced and inspired.”

Looking Ahead

As she begins her first year at PBIA, she’s eager to dive in. “I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the PBIA culture and getting to know the students, faculty, and families on a personal level. I’m excited to lead in partnership with this extraordinary community and support the continued growth of a school that’s redefining what education can look like.”

A Message to the PBIA Community

“To our students and families: I’m here to listen, to learn, and to support each student in their unique path. What I love about PBIA is that students don’t have to squeeze into a one-size-fits-all model. You are encouraged to discover who you are and how you learn best. I’m genuinely excited to be part of that journey—and I look forward to growing alongside this incredible community.”

The post On the Blog: Meet Ms. Lori Kubach, Our New Head of School appeared first on Palm Beach International.

Stanza Education Corporation Welcomes New Heads of School at 91����’s Boca Raton Campus and Online Private School Holston Academy

June 24, 2025 – Lancaster, Calif., and Boca Raton, FL — Stanza Education Corporation, a national leader in flexible, student-centered education, is pleased to announce two new leaders who will serve as Heads of School within its expanding network.

Cory Plough, M.Ed. has been named the new Head of School at Holston Academy, Stanza’s online private school serving students in grades 6-12. A veteran educator and administrator with more than 20 years of experience in online learning, Cory is passionate about personalized education and empowering students to take ownership of their learning journeys.

“I’m honored to lead Holston Academy into its next chapter,” said Plough. “This is a community that believes in the potential of every student, and I’m excited to help further that mission through technology, flexibility, and meaningful connections.”

Lori Kubach, M.Ed. joins 91���� (PBIA) as the new Head of School at its Boca Raton campus, bringing with her a rich background in one-on-one instruction, mentorship, and academic program development. Lori’s student-first approach is a natural fit for PBIA’s bespoke model of personalized education.

“At PBIA, learning is a deeply personal experience, and that’s what drew me here,” said Kubach. “I’m thrilled to lead a community where education is built around the individual student, fostering not just academic growth, but confidence, curiosity, and character.”

Both leaders bring a strong alignment with Stanza Education Corporation’s core values of innovation, relationship-driven learning, and student empowerment. Their experience and vision will be instrumental in advancing the schools’ missions into the future.

Megan O’Reilly Palevich, Executive Director at Stanza Education Corporation, expressed her excitement about the new leadership, “Cory and Lori are both dynamic, forward-thinking leaders who understand what it means to center education around each student. Their vision and compassion reflect the values we champion at Stanza, and I’m confident they will lead Holston and PBIA into a future of meaningful, student-driven learning.”

These leadership changes reinforce Stanza Education Corporation’s mission to create powerful learning environments that honor each student’s path—whether in person, online, or a blend of both.

Both schools are currently taking applications for the 2025-26 school year. For more information about Holston Academy, please visit: and for more information about 91����, please visit PBIAcademy.org.

About Stanza Education Corporation

Stanza Education Corporation empowers organizations to create small learning communities that cultivate future-ready students by providing personalized curriculum and instruction, streamlined processes, and innovative systems. Our network of schools includes accredited, nonprofit online and brick-and-mortar private microschools for grades 6-12.

Contact:

Laura Loughead, Director of Marketing and Communications

PR@HolstonAcademy.org

(661) 571-1660

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Pictured from left: Joanne Weiner, PBIA Wellington Founder, Troy McLellan, President & CEO of the Boca Chamber, Megan O’Reilly Palevich, 91���� Boca Raton Executive Director, Skip Hansen, Lifelong Learning Administration Corporation President, and Marc Wigder, Council Member & CRA Chair.

Boca Raton, FL – April 4, 2025 – 91���� (PBIA), a Stanza Education microschool focused on providing personalized education, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate its official opening in Boca Raton, Florida on April 2^nd. The event was attended by prominent members of the local community, including City Councilman Marc Wigder and representatives from the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce.

The school’s focus on a personalized educational experience, small student-to-teacher ratios, and an emphasis on community involvement make it a valuable addition to the growing number of educational options available to families in South Florida.

“At PBIA, we want to be a partner in every child’s educational journey, nurturing their passions, encouraging their strengths, and helping them build the skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world,” said Megan O’Reilly Palevich, 91����’s Executive Director. “We are excited to become a part of the Boca Raton community, and we look forward to working closely with families and local businesses to ensure that our students succeed and contribute to the vibrant future of this community.”

Attendees included City Councilman & CRA Chair, Marc Wigder and Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce members, as well as area professionals. Local leaders expressed their excitement about 91����’s opening, recognizing the school’s potential to contribute positively to the educational landscape in the region.

“We embrace this kind of unique educational opportunity in our community, “said Troy McLellan, President and CEO of the Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce. “We value it very dearly and we are excited to officially welcome 91����, a Stanza Education School to the Boca Raton community.” 

The ceremony marked a significant milestone for PBIA, which aims to provide a dynamic and innovative educational experience for students in the Boca Raton area. By focusing on smaller class sizes, individualized learning, and a well-rounded curriculum, PBIA seeks to empower students to thrive academically while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for learning.

With structured but flexible scheduling, students balance academics, extracurricular activities, and personal passions. Whether through one-on-one instruction, small group learning, independent study, peer collaboration, or virtual engagement, students have the freedom to learn anytime, anywhere, while meeting the highest academic potential for each student.

For more information about 91����, a Stanza Education School, please visit .

About 91����, a Stanza Education School: 91����, a non-profit Stanza Education School (PBIA SES), is an accredited, hybrid, college-prep private school offering personalized, self-paced learning for students in grades 6-12 located in Boca Raton, Florida. As a mission-driven, non-profit institution, we prioritize student success. With a flexible schedule and individualized support from dedicated Academic Coaches, Teachers and Tutors, PBIA SES provides a structured yet adaptable environment where students thrive. Whether through one-on-one instruction, small group learning, independent study, or virtual engagement, students have the freedom to learn anytime, anywhere, while meeting the highest academic potential for each student.

Media Contact:
Laura Loughead, Director of Communications

info@PBIAcademy.org

(661) 571-1660

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 Responding to Increased Demand for Private Education

BOCA RATON, Fla. – January 15, 2025 –Stanza Education Corporation is opening its first 91���� (PBIA) microschool in Boca Raton, Florida.

As the population in South Florida continues to grow, local families are increasingly seeking private school options that provide a more individualized and nurturing learning environment. And with current private schools in the region facing waitlists and limited availability, PBIA is stepping in to offer an innovative solution for parents and students looking for a high-quality, private education.

“For Stanza Education Corporation, the opening of our first microschool marks an exciting new chapter in our commitment to creating personalized, future-ready learning experiences. As we continue to see an increasing demand for innovative educational options, we are thrilled to offer the families of Boca Raton an alternative that emphasizes individualized attention, flexibility and a collaborative community. Our Head of Schools, Dr. Christina Seamster, is deeply committed to providing an educational environment where every student is seen, valued and given the tools to succeed,” said Megan O’Reilly Palevich, Executive Director, Stanza Education Corporation.

Key Features of PBIA’s Microschool in Boca Raton:

●&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;Small Class Sizes: Focused on ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and the opportunity to thrive academically.

●&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;Customized Learning Pathways: A curriculum designed to meet the unique learning needs of each student, fostering growth at their own pace.

●&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;Experienced Faculty: 91����’s highly skilled educators are committed to providing an exceptional, individualized educational experience.

●&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;&�Բ�����;Community-Focused Environment: A strong emphasis on developing students’ social-emotional skills and fostering a collaborative, supportive community.

PBIA is part of the Stanza Education Corporation family of private schools specializing in personalized instruction. The PBIA campus is located at the state-of-the-art Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRiC). Students, families and staff can enjoy access to miles of walking and bike paths, outdoor art exhibits and a lake view.

The new microschool will open its doors in the winter of 2025 and is accepting applications for the current and upcoming school year. For more information about 91���� and the new Boca Raton microschool, please visit or call (561) 735-5773.

About Stanza Education Corporation

Stanza Education Corporation empowers organizations to create small learning communities that cultivate future-ready students by providing personalized curriculum and instruction, streamlined processes, and innovative systems. Our network of schools includes accredited, nonprofit online and brick-and-mortar private microschools for grades 6-12.

About 91����

91���� is a nonprofit, grades 6-12 Stanza Education Corporation School, accredited by Cognia. Drawing on the rich history of the flagship Wellington, Florida location, our mission is to create new schools that offer a personalized educational experience. We aim to foster curiosity and cultivate knowledge, skills, and abilities in positive, innovative, and nurturing environments. Our student-centered model of education focuses on the unique needs of each student, while fostering a lifelong love for learning and shaping responsible global citizens.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Laura Loughead, Director of Communications

(661) 571-1660

info@PBIAcademy.org

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