Before you file a single piece of paperwork or enroll your first student, there’s one crucial decision that could make or break your school: your legal structure.

In this essential episode of WISE and Otherwise, education leaders Becky Abrams Wilmoth and Allison Weide break down everything microschool founders need to understand about forming a nonprofit, choosing a board, and staying legally compliant with IRS regulations.

From homeschool co-ops and hybrid models to full-time academies, they share what works, what fails, and what might get you in serious trouble if you're not careful.

In this episode:– The difference between nonprofit and for-profit status (and what founders often misunderstand)– Why “keeping it simple” can backfire legally– The risks of collecting tuition under the wrong status– How Becky grew from field trips to a thriving 300-student nonprofit– What every founder should know about bylaws, boards, and parent volunteers– The importance of clear separation between church, school, and homeschool group

Want the slides from this session?

Email dalena@aimeducationks.com or becky@nonprofitedsolutions.com to request a copy of the presentation materials.

Join Our Next Webinar

Dalena + Becky Essentials: Writing Effective Mission/Vision Statements and Core Program Structure

🗓 Monday, January 26, 2026 · 7:00–8:00pm CT

📍 Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/vym-ywsw-vwz

📞 Dial-in: +1 929-277-5673‬ PIN: 847 698 289#🔗 More numbers: https://tel.meet/vym-ywsw-vwz?pin=3201398619397

Are you starting a school or co-op? Did you choose nonprofit or for-profit—and why? Share in the comments!

Like, subscribe, and follow for more real-world insights on launching and leading bold education models.

Resources & Links: Learn more about NonprofitEd: https://www.nonprofitedsolutions.com/

Connect with Becky Abrams Wilmoth: becky@nonprofitedsolutions.com

BSz&si=wgUWXhwT2ElrMnoV#Microschools #SchoolStartup #NonprofitEducation #ForProfitVsNonprofit #SchoolChoice #ChristianEducation #WISEAndOtherwise #LegalTipsForFounders

This week on WISE and Otherwise, we’re sharing a special replay—an eye-opening conversation I had with Dr. Lisa Watson. If you missed it the first time, this is one of those episodes that stays with you. Dr. Watson’s story is unlike anything you’ve heard: a former ACLU president, a committed atheist, and a leader in progressive activism… until a supernatural encounter completely changed the direction of her life.And here’s why this matters right now.Across the country, parents, pastors, and church leaders are waking up to the reality that the public school system is not just struggling—it’s shaping the next generation with values that run directly against biblical truth. Dr. Watson pulls back the curtain on what’s actually happening inside schools, why even public school teachers are opting out for their own kids, and why churches can no longer afford to stay on the sidelines.In this interview, she lays out a clear, urgent case for why Christian education isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential. She explains how the church already has every resource it needs to step in, reclaim its place in forming young hearts and minds, and give families a real alternative. You’ll hear powerful insights, practical steps, and a hopeful vision for what happens when churches decide to lead instead of react.If you care about protecting children, strengthening families, and equipping the next generation with truth, this conversation will deepen your resolve and sharpen your mission.

What do you do when the system has no place for your child—or any child with special needs?

In this moving episode of WISE and Otherwise, you’ll meet Meghan Melchor, founder of Lionheart Academy, a microschool for children with autism, intellectual delays, behavioral challenges, and other high-support needs. When one mom reached out with nowhere else to turn, Meghan said yes—and opened her home, her heart, and eventually, her own school.

🎙️ In this episode:

– Why most Christian schools weren’t willing to serve high-needs students

– How Meghan began homeschooling someone else’s child in her basement

– The daily miracles and spiritual battles of running a school for overlooked kids

– What church partnership can look like when done right

– Why she believes there are more Lionheart Academies waiting to be built

This isn’t just a story about education—it’s about calling, compassion, and the kind of love that refuses to give up on a child.

📢 What would happen if every community had a Lionheart? Could you be the next one to say yes? Tell us in the comments.

🔔 Like and follow for more real stories of courage, creativity, and Kingdom work in education.

📌 Resources & Links:

🔹 Visit Lionheart Academy: https://www.lionheartacademykansas.com/

🔹 More podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6GbjQYqh0HeG7ojJNq0eoe?si=cIryTLDnQLitWpKqfZ5RSQ#SpecialNeedsEducation

#FaithAndEducation #LionheartAcademy #MicroSchool #SchoolChoice #ChristianSchool #ParentAdvocacy #WISEAndOtherwise