Indiana Superintendent Launches Statewide Microschool Network to Attract Students

George Philhower, superintendent of Eastern Hancock schools in Indiana, has launched a statewide microschool network to help his district compete for students. The network operates as a separate local education agency with its own board and a charter allowing sites anywhere in Indiana. Philhower says this structure provides financial stability and lets the district partner with local organizations in diverse locations.

George Philhower leads Eastern Hancock schools and also heads the Indiana Microschool Collaborative. The collaborative is a separate local education agency with its own appointed board and nonprofit charter status, permitting sites across Indiana. Two of five district board members sit on its board.

The network currently includes five varied schools. One opened in 2025 at a campground and drew a waiting list. Another was a small private school that joined for operational support. A Randolph County site is co-located inside a partner district’s elementary.