Key Differences

The Mandala School
vs
Public School

12 Key Differences

1. Holistic Approach

• At TMS, we nurture emotional, social, and academic growth, supporting well-rounded development beyond traditional academics alone.

2. Meaningful Curriculum

• Our curriculum emphasizes project-based learning in STEAM subjects, focusing on individual skill growth and achievement rather than standardized test scores.

3. Personalized Learning

• With small class sizes and tailored instruction, TMS meets each student's unique learning style and strengths, promoting deeper engagement and understanding.

4. Life Skills & Enrichment

• Students participate in enrichment and life-skills programs, gaining practical knowledge that traditional education may not typically provide.

5. Hands-On, Collaborative Projects

• Project-based learning at TMS encourages active participation, hands-on experiences, and teamwork, enhancing problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

6. Small Class Sizes

• Smaller classes allow meaningful teacher-student relationships, personalized attention, and supportive, individualized learning experiences.

7. Thoughtful Assignments Instead of Busywork

• Instead of traditional homework, we encourage students to engage in thought experiments, fostering creativity and deeper understanding—methods historically used by great minds like Einstein and Galileo.

8. Portfolios Over Letter Grades

• Portfolios showcase each student's growth and development holistically, providing richer insights into their achievements compared to traditional letter grades.

9. Mixed-Age Learning Environment

• Mixed-age groups at TMS encourage peer mentorship, cooperation, and social skills, allowing students to learn from each other just like siblings within a family.

10. Metaphysical Education

• Daily meditation, weekly yoga, and metaphysical lessons promote physical health, emotional balance, and mental clarity. These practices help students develop focus, manage stress, and build a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

11. Democratic Approach to Discipline

• Students actively participate in shaping community rules and consequences, empowering responsibility, self-awareness, and collaborative decision-making.

12. Student Jobs and Community Engagement

• Rotating school responsibilities provide students with meaningful roles, practical skills, and a strong sense of community and personal ownership.

At The Mandala School, we believe education should empower students to think independently, explore creatively, and take ownership of their learning journey. The traditional model of education often emphasizes conformity and rote memorization, while we focus on nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and self-discovery. The videos below explore these very themes—how creativity, agency, and individuality can thrive when students are given the freedom to learn in meaningful ways. We invite you to watch and reflect on how schools can—and should—evolve to truly serve our children.