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Whitestone Academy Concept

Date: May 20, 2025
Based on: Conversation between Gary Sheng and Mackenzie Price
Key Partners: Tauren Wells (Whitestone Church), Julie Jumonville (Connector)

Overview​

The Whitestone Academy represents a strategic opportunity to develop a faith-based educational institution powered by Alpha's innovative educational model but operating under its own distinct brand. This concept aligns with interest expressed by Whitestone Church leadership and Mackenzie Price's openness to faith-based educational partnerships outside the Alpha brand.

Conceptual Framework​

Branding & Structure​

  • Proposed Name: "Whitestone Academy powered by Tomorrowland"
  • Identity: Distinct from Alpha Schools but leveraging educational model
  • Relationship: Technical/pedagogical support from Alpha ecosystem
  • Leadership: Likely led by Whitestone Church with Alpha advisory role

Educational Model​

  • Incorporate Alpha's Two-Hour Learning approach
  • Integrate faith-based elements aligned with Whitestone Church values
  • Maintain academic excellence and innovation focus
  • Potentially utilize Alpha's AI tutoring and Masterpiece Project approach

Key Stakeholders​

Whitestone Church​

  • Led by Pastor Tauren Wells, a nationally recognized gospel singer turned pastor
  • Church established approximately one year ago
  • Has "amazing facilities" that could potentially support educational programming
  • Education initiatives have been "in the plans" but not yet "overly prioritized"

Alpha Schools​

  • Provides educational model and technical support
  • Maintains separate branding from faith-based initiative
  • Experience with multiple educational approaches and models
  • Mackenzie Price expressed enthusiasm: "I love the idea."

Potential Connectors​

  • Julie Jumonville: Has connection to Whitestone Church through her brother-in-law
  • Already discussed potential school with Mackenzie Price

Market Opportunity​

Previous Interest​

  • Mackenzie noted prior interest from communities in Dallas and Dripping Springs for faith-based schools
  • Interest existed but initiatives were never fully developed
  • Demonstrated market demand for faith-based alternatives

Whitestone Community​

  • Georgetown, TX-based church community
  • Young, growing congregation
  • Potential parent base already connected through church

Next Steps​

  1. Further Conversation with Tauren Wells

    • Gary is already facilitating this conversation
    • Discuss educational vision and potential structure
    • Determine level of interest and commitment

  2. Physical Space Assessment

    • Evaluate Whitestone Church facilities for educational use
    • Determine any modifications or additions needed

  3. Partnership Structure

    • Define relationship between Whitestone and Alpha/Tomorrowland
    • Outline operational responsibilities and support mechanisms
    • Establish financial model and resource allocation

  4. Community Interest Assessment

    • Gauge interest from Whitestone Church community
    • Determine potential initial enrollment numbers
    • Identify parent champions within community

  5. Educational Model Integration

    • Develop approach to combining faith-based elements with Alpha model
    • Define curriculum and pedagogical approach
    • Establish staffing needs and training requirements

Strategic Considerations​

  • Brand Separation: Important to maintain distinction from Alpha brand while leveraging educational model
  • Precedent Setting: Success could lead to similar partnerships with other faith communities
  • Resource Allocation: Need to balance support for this initiative with other Alpha priorities
  • Timeline Alignment: Consider optimal launch timing relative to other Alpha initiatives
  • Legal Structure: Determine appropriate operational and governance framework