#United States #The School House #Mimosa Jones Tunney #Yass Prize #East Northport

Celebration of Educational Innovation: The 2025 Yass Prize Finalists

The world of education is witnessing a remarkable highlight as The School House and its visionary leader, Mimosa Jones Tunney, have been named finalists for the esteemed 2025 Yass Prize. This award is recognized widely as one of the pinnacle recognitions within the educational sector, often referred to as the 'Pulitzer of Education Innovation.' The School House stands proud as the sole finalist from New York State, showcasing its dedication to transformative educational models.

The Yass Prize, awarded by the Center for Education Reform in conjunction with Forbes, honors educational institutions and models that embody the STOP principles — Sustainable, Transformational, Outstanding, and Permissionless. Each of these principles reflects a core ethos that The School House has integrated into its curriculum and pedagogy:

1. Sustainable: The curriculum aims to foster skills that are not only applicable today but remain adaptable for the future needs of learners. This perseverance encourages children to engage with their education meaningfully and sustainably.
2. Transformational: The institution advocates for major iterational growth in educational practices, incorporating student-centered methods and evidence-based strategies.
3. Outstanding: The achievements of The School House in enhancing educational standards and student performance are noteworthy, marking its position as a leader within the educational community.
4. Permissionless: Their approach encourages educators to innovate and make decisions without bureaucracy hindering their ability to enhance student learning experiences.

The American Emergent Curriculum

At the heart of The School House's philosophy lies the American Emergent Curriculum (AEC). This pioneering framework successfully marries scientific teaching methodologies with hands-on learning experiences. AEC promotes critical-thinking skills and practical competencies across a spectrum that nurtures toddlers to eighth graders. This distinct curriculum has attracted the attention of significant national figures including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade, and the U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. Their visit to experience AEC in action serves to reinforce the innovative practices implemented by The School House.

Mimosa Jones Tunney, reflecting on this honor, expressed, "This recognition affirms what we've believed all along — that when you put children first and give educators permission to innovate, extraordinary things happen. We’re deeply honored to represent our learners, families, and the future of education on this national stage."

The Future Path

As finalists, The School House will engage in the Yass Prize Accelerator held in Miami, where they, alongside other competitors, will present their educational model to a panel of prominent national judges. The final winners will be announced in Washington, D.C. on December 4th, with a grand prize of $1 million at stake, underlining the significance of this initiative.

Even beyond the contest, the recognition serves as a springboard for The School House, enhancing its profile as a leader in educational reform. With ambition and clarity, they aim to expand initiatives such as the TSH Anywhere microschool and their homeschool network, setting a mission to reshape education in America with a student-centered focus.

About The School House

The School House operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in East Northport, New York. Catering to learners from toddler to eighth grade, it encompasses a mission that is as much about emotional and humane education as it is about academic success. Through the AEC, they emphasize not just knowledge acquisition but the development of well-rounded individuals poised to meet future challenges. Founded by educator and reform advocate Mimosa Jones Tunney, The School House stands as a beacon for innovative educational practices that respect both scientific insight and the emotional needs of children. For more information, you can visit The School House's press kit or follow them on Instagram @theschoolhouse_aec.