Texas private school flaunts morning classes with AI learning, teachers with large salaries

Alpha School in Austin, Texas, has created an AI-driven educational model where fourth and fifth graders spend just two hours each morning on traditional academics through personalized software, with the rest of their day focused on life skills projects. The $40,000-per-year private school represents a radical departure from conventional education, using artificial intelligence to customize learning while human “guides” focus on motivation rather than instruction.

How the model works: Students progress through science, math, and reading at their own pace using AI-driven software that adapts to individual learning speeds.

• Adults in classrooms are called “guides” rather than teachers and earn six-figure salaries, with their role focused on encouragement and motivation rather than academic instruction.
• “I don’t think it’s replacing, I think it’s just working in tandem,” said guide Luke Phillips about AI’s role versus traditional teaching.
• Every student receives 30 minutes of one-on-one time with guides each week, plus group interactions during afternoon workshops.

The curriculum structure: Mornings are dedicated to AI-powered academics, while afternoons focus on practical life skills that founder MacKenzie Price considers invaluable.

• Students tackle projects, learn financial literacy, and develop public speaking abilities during afternoon sessions.
• “There is such a huge advantage when students can be met at the level and pace of learning that is right for them,” Phillips explained.

The big picture: Founded in 2014 by MacKenzie Price, who had no prior education background, Alpha School has expanded to 16 campuses with backing from major investors.

• Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited the school last month, indicating high-level government interest in the model.
• The school reports that its students test in the top 1% on standardized assessments, though AI educational models face skepticism from traditional educators who consider them unproven.

Why this matters: Alpha School positions itself as a potential inspiration for broader educational reform, despite the steep tuition barrier.

• “What I hope that Alpha can be is an example, an inspiration and help families understand that this model of education is something that can work,” Price said.
• The approach directly addresses the challenge of personalized learning at scale, though questions remain about accessibility and long-term effectiveness.

What students are saying: The AI-driven approach appears to engage students effectively, with participants expressing enthusiasm for the program.

• Student Smith Adreon called the program “amazing,” reflecting positive student reception of the technology-centered learning environment.