Returning Families

What If Middle School Was the Best Part of Their Week?

A small, relationship-driven learning environment where students build confidence, curiosity, and the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

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Pod Vision for Middle School →

Kids are naturally wired to learn.

When learning is meaningful, hands-on, and connected to real life, students move beyond memorization into true understanding and engagement. We believe God created us with a natural desire to learn and grow (Proverbs 18:15)—our job is to bring that out, not suppress it. Too often, modern education unintentionally dulls that desire, but when it’s restored, students begin to pursue learning for themselves.

Curiosity is the engine of real education.

We create an environment centered on developing Executive Function, where students ask questions, explore ideas, and think for themselves instead of just completing assignments. When curiosity leads, learning becomes deeper, more creative, and far more lasting.

Thriving in a Post-AI World.

In a world where AI can generate answers instantly, the real advantage is knowing how to think. We focus on building skills like focus, decision-making, and critical thinking—things technology can’t replace—and students learn to use tools wisely without becoming dependent on them. Increasingly, CEOs are saying the same thing: as AI takes over routine tasks, the most valuable people will be those who can think clearly, solve problems, communicate well, and adapt quickly in a changing world.

Develop Deep & Meaningful Relationships

Students learn best when they feel known, supported, and connected. In our small, relational environment, educators walk closely with each student—academically, personally, and spiritually—while instilling biblical friendship, humility, and grace-filled conflict resolution. We partner intentionally with families, strengthening the home so students build meaningful relationships, engage deeply, and grow with confidence.

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Modern Schooling Isn’t Working Like It Used To

Attention is fragmented
Anxiety is rising
Screens are replacing real interaction
Kids are more dependent—but less capable

"Since around 2012, educators have seen sharp increases in anxiety and declines in focus and attention." - Jonathan Haidt

The Real Skill Gap: Executive Function

The most important skill today isn’t memorization—it’s the ability to:

Focus
Plan
Start and finish work
Manage time
Think independently
Communicate Effectively

Schools often remove the need for these skills instead of developing them.

Students who can think, plan, and stay focused will outperform those who simply "know more"

What a Week Actually Looks Like
- Monday-Thursday, Direct In-Person Instruction at a local church
- Small group learning where students are known
- Hands-on experiences & Project Based Learning
- Leadership + life skills
- Time to think deeply (not rushed bell schedules)
How We Teach Differently
- Teach how to learn, not just content
- Build executive function intentionally
- Encourage ownership and responsibility
- Blend structure + independence

The Kind of Student We’re Developing

We’re developing students who carry a lifelong love of learning and the ability to think critically and solve real problems. They grow in confidence, take ownership of their work, carry intrinsic motivation, and learn to approach challenges with clarity and resilience. Above all, they are grounded in the Gospel and secure in God’s love, giving them a strong foundation for who they are and how they live.

World-Class Educators

Jen Youngquist
Jen is the Founder and Director of Temecula Learning Pods, where she teaches ELA and History and brings over 20 years of middle school experience, including developing published curriculum focused on executive function and independent learning. She has masters degrees in Curriculum and Education and Administrative Leadership.
David Casey
David is a former middle and high school STEAM teacher and department chair with a Master’s in Education, as well as an active entrepreneur, known for his leadership, hands-on teaching style, and passion for developing critical thinking and real-world problem-solving in students.
Maddy Hubbell
Maddy is an accredited educator with a background in Early Childhood Education who brings a fresh, relational, and hands-on approach to learning, helping students feel known, supported, and genuinely excited to learn.

Gallery

On a field trip to Catalina Island, pod students hiked rugged trails, explored the ocean, and experienced ecology firsthand beyond the classroom.

Analyzing rock specimens in class to identify mineral composition, texture, and formation processes—applying geology concepts through hands-on investigation that reinforces observation and critical thinking skills.

We incorporate a full day each month at a local organic farm. Here, students designed, organized, and competed in an Olympic-style challenge—building real-world skills like planning, decision-making, collaboration, and follow-through

The East Coast field trip brought history to life—seeing in person what we’ve studied all year, sharing great meals, and deepening friendships.

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TLP Middle School

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child be ready for High School and College?

Yes—your child will be ready for high school and well-prepared for college if that’s the path they choose. More importantly, we’re focused on equipping students with the skills that matter long after school—critical thinking, problem-solving, responsibility, and the ability to navigate real life with confidence. Whether they become a president or a plumber, these are the kinds of skills that will serve them well into adulthood and beyond.

Is this a school or homeschool?

We operate as a homeschool hybrid—every family files a homeschool affidavit, while students spend meaningful, structured time each week learning alongside peers with dedicated tutors. The result is the best of both worlds: the flexibility, personalization, and ownership of a homeschool education, combined with the relationships, accountability, and shared experiences of a traditional school. Students aren’t stuck in a system—they’re known, challenged, and supported in a way that brings out a genuine love of learning.

Do you follow California state standards?

We use California state standards as a guide, but we don’t follow them strictly. If alignment is important to your family, we’re happy to show you exactly what we’re covering and where you may want to supplement at home.

It’s also important to remember this is a ~20-hour per week in-person program, compared to 35+ hours in a traditional school—giving families an extra 15+ hours each week to invest intentionally, whether that’s doubling down on academics like math and science or pursuing passions like entrepreneurship, outdoor activities, or other interests.

What is the cost?

Tuition is $6,250 annually, broken into 10 monthly payments of $625. Optional electives such as leadership and P.E. are available and can be paid for using charter funds, giving families added flexibility to customize their student’s experience.

Do you accept charter funds?

No, we do not accept charter funds. This allows us to openly and authentically integrate faith into the learning environment, including teaching and talking about Jesus without restriction. That said, some of our families do participate in charter programs, and while our pods are not designed to fully align with state standards, much of what we cover will naturally overlap.

How do you handle technology and screens?

We believe technology is a powerful tool—but not something that should dominate a child’s life. Research from social psychologist Jonathan Haidt highlights how the rapid rise of smartphones and social media since the early 2010s has been closely linked to increased anxiety, depression, and social disconnection among adolescents.

Because of this, we maintain a strict no-phone policy on campus to protect focus, relationships, and real-world interaction. At the same time, we intentionally incorporate tools like Chromebooks in a limited, purposeful way—teaching students how to use technology wisely, responsibly, and as a tool, not a master.

Do you require vaccines?

No, we do not require vaccines. We believe in health freedom and respect each family’s right to make medical decisions for their children.