Mastery Academics High School (MAHS), a hybrid microschool for teens ages 14–17, will open August 31 at 9 a.m. in the Dallas–Plano area.
Founded by higher education professor Tonya Whitaker, MAHS blends mastery-based learning with project-based instruction to prepare students for college or the workforce without remediation.
Whitaker, a former newspaper journalist, founded MAHS after years of seeing first year college- and career-focused students struggle with reading, writing, and critical thinking. Her experience teaching composition and researching gaps in the Texas curriculum led her to design a school that builds those skills during the high school years, eliminating the need for developmental courses later.
“We make learning engaging and low-stress as possible,” Whitaker said. “Learning should build students up and prepare them for something bigger in the future, not contribute to anxiety or depression.
“Many in society have labeled teenagers lazy when, in fact, they thrive when learning is authentic and when they are given strong, consistent support.”
The microschool enrolls a maximum of 15 students, allowing Whitaker to provide individualized attention to each student. In-person classes meet at library locations near students’ homes.
Whitaker said enrollment begins with a personal conversation to map each student’s goals and design an individualized plan.
To support families, MAHS provides flexible payment plans, including monthly options, making personalized education more accessible.
Families in the Dallas and Plano areas are encouraged to contact the school for details. Contact Whitaker at info@masteryacademics.school, 469-512-9366, or visit their website www.masteryacademics.school.
