Bringing the Best of Private School to Your Homeschool

Topic

Mandy Davis, former school principal and author of The Homeschool Bible™, joins Garrett Smiley, CEO and co-founder of Sora Schools, for an authentic conversation on rethinking education beyond traditional systems. Together, they explore what becomes possible when learning is built around curiosity, flexibility, and real human development.

Mandy shares her personal journey from working within the traditional system to advocating for educational choice and the power of home education, while Garrett reflects on why Sora was created and how it brings the best of a private school experience into the homeschool environment.

Designed as an open, organic dialogue, this conversation leaves room for curiosity, reflection, and possibility. There are no scripts or rigid agendas, just meaningful discussion about what today’s learners truly need and how parents and educators can help shape a more empowered future.

For thoughtful parents and educators ready to question the status quo and imagine what education could be.

Speaker Bios

Mandy Davis

Mandy Davis is a former school principal with a Master’s degree in Education and the author of The Homeschool Bible™, a forthcoming, comprehensive guide helping families rethink education, rest, and modern learning. After spending years inside the traditional school system, Mandy now speaks and writes about what children and families actually need to thrive — clarity over chaos, peace over pressure, and education that fits real life. She is the founder of Homebuilt Education and a trusted voice for parents navigating homeschooling, modern parenting, and faith-centered family rhythms.

Garrett Smiley 

Garrett Smiley is the founder of Sora Schools, a fully accredited online school serving 6th–12th graders with a unique, personalized approach to education. Sora’s project-based learning model is built around innovation and interdisciplinary studies, offering students the freedom to explore their passions in a flexible and self-directed environment. Garrett is committed to breaking traditional education molds and fostering a learning experience that prepares students for the dynamic, fast-paced world of tomorrow.