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Academy of Thought and Industry Virtual School

Discover your individual path to excellence

We are a Montessori-inspired online private middle and high school. We deliver a powerful education for independence to develop curious, self-motivated adolescents who thrive in school and in life. Address: 10 Orchard Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630. Phone: (714) 709-8598. E-mail: virtual-admissions@thoughtandindustry.com

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Welcome to the future of middle and high school education!

Study anytime, from anywhere!

ATI Virtual School's middle and high school program is unique: a deliberately planned and charted curriculum of foundational skills that open a greater and greater number of possible paths. Our students don’t just memorize—they understand, apply, and integrate knowledge to pursue their own passions!

ati austin students standing at table looking at measuring cups filled with liquid

What kind of student is a good fit for ATI Virtual School?

  • High-achieving students who are looking for an intellectually-challenging school
  • College-bound students looking to get into competitive institutions
  • Ambitious teens looking for a small, private school and a more personalized learning environment
  • Homeschooled or virtual school students looking for more opportunities to socialize with other online students
  • Students who are looking for a supportive and accepting community
  • Advanced students looking for a Montessori-inspired middle and high school
  • Gifted and Talented students looking for an alternative to public high school
  • Student athletes and performers who travel and don't want to get behind in school
  • Students who need a more flexible school schedule

Why Choose ATI Virtual School?

Academic Rigor at ATI Virtual School

Academic Rigor for the Real World

Students are challenged and get the preparation they need to be successful in school and life. Our graduates go on to college, create their own companies, and become global citizens.

  • Students do real work in the world
  • They serve as a productive members of the community
  • They realize their natural desire for independence
View Student OutcomesDownload the Program Guide

We foster a love of learning

Learning is a lifelong pursuit, and we help students discover their own love of learning and watch as it motivates them to expand their knowledge.

Explore AcademicsRead Parent Testimonials

Intentionally Small Classes

At ATI Virtual School, we choose to have small class sizes because we believe that is the best way to give students the personalized attention – through our unique teaching and coaching structure – that they need to grow and explore.

In a small school community, our students learn and practice self-governance, interdependence, and conflict resolution, gaining a sense of ownership and pride for the community around them.

Learn by doing, not by lecturing

Our Montessori-inspired learning pairs learning academic foundations with real life skill building. Dr. Montessori emphasized that teens should do real work: not just in school, but fully in the world. At ATI we remove the artificial barrier between the vocational and the avocational; what's required for class and what's chosen for life.


View our Curriculum for Middle and High SchoolLearn more about Montessori Education

One-on-One Coaching

Every ATI Virtual School student is paired with a coach who meets one-on-one to help define the student's values, set goals, take risks, and chart their own path. The coaching curriculum has been built by educational experts and psychologists to support the process of self-creation that is so fundamental to adolescence. The coaching process emphasizes:

  • Self-worth
  • Self-efficacy
  • Self-creation
Learn more about Coaching

Small school communities, globally connected

ATI Virtual School is a tight-knit community that is also connected to a global network, allowing students to learn from industry experts, take part in unique electives, find mentors in your field, and connect with peers around the country and world.

All ATI Schools
ESA

Arizona Scholarship Account (ESA)

Thousands of Arizona students in Kindergarten through 12th grade are currently eligible for the state-funded ESA, which awards $4,000 – $6,500 annually per student towards private school tuition, home-based education, and other services.

The Academy of Thought and Industry is approved by the Arizona Department of Education as a vendor for parents with students who qualify for the Empowerment Scholarship Award. If you are eligible for the ESA program, you can use your funds towards tuition for our in-school and virtual school programs.

Learn More about ESA
Accreditation by Cognia and WASC

The Academy of Thought and Industry has received accreditation by Cognia™ and WASC, the Accrediting Commission for Schools Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Earning accreditation from the Cognia Global Accreditation Commission means that the system and all of its domestic and international schools are accredited, and that ATI is recognized across the nation as meeting the Cognia Standards of Quality. ACS WASC accredits elementary and secondary schools; non-degree granting adult schools; and supplementary education programs.

What Parents are Saying

ATI Virtual Student

Right from the start, the ATI admissions team wanted to talk to my daughters directly — it had nothing to do with me. They wanted to hear about my girls’ dreams, fears, strengths, weaknesses. The program is built around children. When you think about middle school in general, it tends to assume so much control over children and be adult-led. When my daughters had their first day of school, Sarah said, “Mom, these guides trust us. None of my teachers have ever talked to me like I am capable before.”

Jessie B.

ATI Virtual School Parent

We are grateful to have found ATI. We have now realized that Montessori education is how Anthony should have been taught; it would have alleviated years of frustration in our family. We are confident that ATI's model for students to "go confidently in the direction of their dreams and live the life they imagine" is exactly what Anthony needs. We are even more convinced that ATI is the answer to our prayers because [ATI] joins us in reinforcing the opportunity to hold Anthony accountable for his education.

Alan D.

ATI Virtual School Parent

ATI Virtual School Testimonial

“My son has evolved and matured into an incredible young person as a result of his experience here. ATI has created a solid foundation for him during the challenging years of adolescence and we are excited to see where the road takes him next.”

Kim S.

ATI Virtual School Parent

Frequently Asked Questions

We charge tuition on a monthly basis during the 10 months the school year is in session. You can find the monthly price displayed on the tuition rate sheet. You’re also locking in the rates that you see displayed for future years.

For Arizona Residents: Arizona's Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program could provide between $4,000 to $6,500 to pay for private school tuition! Most Arizona families are eligible. Learn more.

Learn More about Admissions, Tuition and Financial Aid
list of schools ATI students attend after high school

Student Outcomes

ATI Virtual School’s ultimate goal is to create students who thrive: living happy, fulfilled, and productive lives. We work with each student to identify their own values, set specific goals, and learn how to achieve them. This process gives them a sense of accomplishment, and prepares them for a variety of paths in life.


Many of our students choose to pursue higher education, and to date we have a 100% placement rate for college-bound seniors. In addition to their coach and guides, students work with a full-time, licensed college counselor.

Here is where you will find some of our recent ATI graduates:

Meet ATI Virtual School's School Leaders and Guides

In Montessori education, a guide is a teacher, but not a teacher in the way that's presented in a traditional school model. A Montessori teacher, or Guide, is a facilitator who journeys alongside students in the process of learning and self-construction and guides them toward their innate human potential.

Our Team

Head of School

Dr. Ann Orsinger

Head of School

Ann is passionate about reading great books, leading great discussions, and clarifying thoughts through writing; she also loves math, science, art, and sports. Ann’s educational inspiration comes from her undergraduate work at St. John’s College, in Santa Fe. After St. John’s, she attended the Logic and Philosophy of Science Department at the University of California, Irvine, receiving her master’s degree in Philosophy. She then received her 2nd master’s degree and her PhD from the Government Department at the University of Texas, Austin, writing her dissertation on developing democratic civic virtues through aesthetic education and design.

Assistant Head of School

Katrina Dela Cruz

Assistant Head of School

Katrina earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Psychology and Education at the University of California, Irvine. She has 6 years of experience working in data and operations, event production, and business development in both the education non-profit and edtech sectors. Katrina has managed operations for organizations such as the Freedom Writers Foundation, TEDxUCIrvine, and Illuminate Education. Across all that she does, her personal motto has always been: “everything is fascinating”, as she enjoys learning all that she can from both her professional and personal experiences. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and exploring new music.

MS Math Guide (East)

Summer Evans

MS Math Guide (East)

Summer Evans is a graduate of the University of North Carolina and Johns Hopkins University. She holds a B.S. degrees in Mathematics and Political Science, and an M.S. in Secondary Education. Summer joins ATI Virtual School with a wealth of teaching experience. She began her career with Teach for America, and has spent the past decade teaching algebra, geometry, and calculus to adolescents in Baltimore and New York City. Beginning in 2016, Summer piloted initiatives using Chromebooks to support math education. This experience has allowed her to adapt to online environment seamlessly. Most importantly, Summer's ability to instantaneously connect with all students is the foundation of her educational approach. By fostering deep relationships, Summer motivates and supports all learners.

MS Science Guide (East)

Jeremy Beach

MS Science Guide (East)

Jeremy is a fifth generation teacher who can trace his family's teaching history back to a one-room schoolhouse in rural Kansas in the late 1800s. He earned his Bachelors of Science Education in physics in 2009 from Emporia State University and went on to get a second Bachelors of Science in Geology from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2013. He completed his Masters of Science in Educational Leadership in May 2015 along with an additional 18 hours towards an Educational Specialist in Educational Administration from Fort Hays State University. Jeremy brings 9 years of experience teaching secondary science and a great enthusiasm for the Montessori educational philosophy. In his free time he is a keyboard player for three bands that pay tribute to three great Rock n' Roll bands: The Cars, REO Speedwagon and Bon Jovi. Jeremy is married with his first child expected to be born in summer 2021.

MS Humanities Guide (East)

Hannah Woznuck

MS Humanities Guide (East)

Hannah has nearly ten years of experience as an educator. She graduated from the University of North Texas and has taught all levels of elementary school. In her spare time she spends time with her Rhodesian ridgeback, Chief, and takes care of her many house plants. Hannah is passionate about reading and social emotional learning.

MSHumanities Guide (West)

Jennifer Albrecht-Ayala

MSHumanities Guide (West)

Jennifer earned a bachelor's degree in Anthropology with a minor in Education Studies from UCLA in 2010. She returned to UCLA to earn a Master of Education degree through the Teacher Education Program in 2012. Jennifer's journey as an educator first became clear when she worked to support middle-school students in an after school program at her local Boys and Girls Club in 2007. That experience inspired her to further her work uplifting youth in the Greater Los Angeles area, which ultimately led her to becoming a teacher. Jennifer is a life-long learner who finds opportunities to grow as an educator so that she can contribute to transforming lives, elevating education, and creating a more just society. She can typically be found in nature observing local wildlife, at home cuddling with her dogs, or in the kitchen trying out new recipes when not working.

MS Science Guide (West) and Learning Specialist (MS & HS)

Barbara Knight

MS Science Guide (West) and Learning Specialist (MS & HS)

Barbara earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Pre-medical Studies from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is also working towards her master's degree in Instructional Design and Technology. Barbara is passionate about education and making an impact in student lives that go beyond the classroom. She started her teaching career 12 years ago while applying to medical school, and decided to dedicate her life to education. Barbara is a lifelong learner and has dabbled in many hobbies such as writing, painting, rollerblading, hiking, and even toured with a Spanish rock band in her early 20s. In her free time she enjoys being outside with her two children, going on nature walks with her husband, traveling the world, and learning all about her pet guinea pigs.

HS World & U.S.History Guide

Andrea LejaMeyer

HS World & U.S.History Guide

Andrea’s professional life has been varied and non-traditional. She discovered her love for teaching and connecting with students during an independent study course her senior year of high school, prompting her to attend the University of Idaho to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. On track to complete this, life interrupted a bit just before she was to graduate. She became a mother of four and chose to use her education to homeschool for 12 years before transitioning to a position as an 8th grade teacher at a private school. After 8 years, she began subbing at the local public high school and discovered a love of these students which prompted her to return her attention to finally completing her Bachelor's degree in Education. She added two high school endorsements of History and English, and began full-time at the High School, which expanded to include a Personal Choices course in addition to History and English. In every variation, her motivation and pleasure is a result of building relationships and connection with students of all ages, beginning with her family which now includes two new spouses and two grandsons. In her spare time she loves walking her two dogs, visiting her family members across the country, creating personalized gifts, camping and kayaking, and coffee with her husband.

ATI College Counselor

Sharon Cravanas

ATI College Counselor

Sharon has been guiding students through the college admissions process for 40 years. Her experiences include serving as Director of College Counseling at Head Royce School; Associate Director of Admissions at Mills College; Consultant for the College Board; Instructor for the UC Berkeley Extension College and Career Certificate Program and other counseling roles. She has read applications for Cal Berkeley and UC Davis, and served on national committee for the National Association of College Admissions Counselors.With all that said, she really considers herself to be a matchmaker. Sharon thinks that there is no bigger thrill than to match a student with the right college.A native of the Bay Area, she is the very proud mom of 2 grown daughters. Her new passion (thanks to the pandemic) is cajun cooking.

HS Algebra I & II Guide16

Mary Donovan

HS Algebra I & II Guide16

Mary has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and a Masters degree in secondary mathematics education from the University of Pittsburgh. She has taught mathematics up through AP Calculus for more than ten years.When she’s not in the classroom, she finds joy in running marathons, cooking, and teaching horseback riding lessons. She has been an avid equestrian since she was 4 and currently owns four horses of her own. She loves to teach and finds great joy in helping students discover their passion for mathematics and horses!

World Language Guide (MS & HS)

Michele Widd

World Language Guide (MS & HS)

Michele spent most of her youth living and studying in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and France before returning to the U.S. to attend university. She earned a Bachelor's degree and master's degree in Chemistry from Stevens Institute of Technology and holds a Lower Elementary (6-9) Montessori certificate from the North American Montessori Center. Michele began her teaching career in 2005 when she joined Montessori Community School in Durham, North Carolina. As a guide in their newly established Adolescent Community, she helped to launch and develop that program and went on to teach Spanish, French, and Science there for the next 11 years. Most recently Michele founded GoalSpark Coaching, a life coaching practice serving youth, teens, and young adults.In her free time she enjoys playing guitar, singing, attending theatre performances, SCUBA diving, and spending time with her son.

World Languages Guide (MS & HS)

Sol Morgan

World Languages Guide (MS & HS)

Claudia Sol was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico. She completed her bachelor's degree in psychology at the Autonomous University of Nuevo León and did her fellowship as a psychologist at the UANL Clinic in Mexico. Sol also studied contemporary dance at the Conservatory of Music and Dance in Monterrey: ESMDM.Sol moved to Milwaukee, WI in 2012 after being hired as a dance teacher and performer. There, she discovered great enthusiasm for teaching her native language. She taught Spanish in the school system and as a private tutor, working with children, teenagers, and adults. Since moving to the United States, Sol has worked for different schools and tutoring programs such as Futura Language Professionals, Tierra Educational Center, Spanish Blackbelt, Casita de Arte, My Learning Springboard and AltSchool. She joined ATI as a world languages guide and curriculum developer in 2019. As a professional dancer, she has been part of many companies and productions for the last 20 years. Sol won first place at the World Salsa Summit in January 2020.

Stories from our blog

Filey working with children as part of his Guidepost Montessori internship
A parent’s view on virtual high school
A virtual school parent reflects on her family’s experience at ATI as her son starts college.
Five Reasons I Love ATI Virtual School
We sat down with Savannah F., a 15-year-old freshman at the Academy of Thought and Industry (ATI). She tells us in her own words why she loves ATI Virtual School.
Why ATI Virtual School Was Just What These Twins Needed to Succeed
When the pandemic pushed Iris and Sarah Beerman into a virtual school program, they assumed it’d be a temporary solution. But they loved it so much, they decided to stay.

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ATI Virtual School is an online school with headquarters located at 10 Orchard Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630.

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