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Baker Creek Academy

About Baker Creek Academy:

 

Baker Creek Academy began not as a grand plan, but as a heartfelt response to the needs of real children—starting with those of its founder, Denise Lever. A homeschool mom since 2006, Denise saw firsthand how each of her three children had different learning styles, passions, and challenges. No single educational model fit them all. Over time, she discovered that many families in her community were facing the same struggle: traditional education simply wasn’t serving their children well.

 

In 2020, at a time of global uncertainty, Denise launched the first Baker Creek microschool in a single rented room with just seven learners. What began with a simple belief—that education should be as unique as the child receiving it—quickly grew into something much larger. Drawing on her background as a former wildland firefighter, Denise infused courage, adaptability, and teamwork into every aspect of BCA’s culture, creating a resilient and supportive learning community.

 

Today, what started as one small classroom has grown into a thriving network of microschools rooted in rural Arizona and expanding outward. The Baker Creek Academy building now serves as a hub of innovation, housing not only BCA but also three additional microschools: Kassi’s Micro Teaching, LaRae’s Learning Lab, and Learning Journey with Jen. Together, these microschools form a collaborative community that empowers learners through connection, curiosity, and purpose.

 

Baker Creek Academy stands as a champion of education freedom, equipping families to design personalized learning paths while fostering the next generation of resilient, empathetic, and self-driven changemakers.

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Baker Creek Academy
Founded by:

Denise Lever

Denise Lever is an education entrepreneur, microschool founder, and mentor dedicated to empowering personalized education pathways. With nearly two decades of experience as a homeschooling parent, Denise founded Baker Creek Academy, a thriving network of rural microschools in Eagar, Arizona, serving K-12 learners through innovative, self-directed education. Leveraging her unique background as a former wildland firefighter, Denise brings courage, resilience, and strategic leadership into her role as founder of TrailblazED, where she mentors education leaders to build thriving microschool communities. Her passion lies in helping each learner uncover their unique potential and equipping others to pioneer bold, transformative educational opportunities.

 

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Kassi's Micro Teaching
Founded By: 

Kassi Jensen

As a homeschooling parent, I’ve seen firsthand how curiosity thrives in personalized, flexible learning. Now, I help guide other children—especially those who need something different than traditional school—on their own paths of discovery.

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I believe learning should spark joy, build confidence, and grow a child’s sense of self. My focus isn’t on test scores—it’s on nurturing curious, capable learners who feel seen, heard, and inspired.

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Strong relationships are at the heart of everything I do. When students feel safe and valued, they take risks, think freely, and grow in powerful ways. My goal is simple: help each child thrive, not just as a student—but as a whole person.

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LaRae's Learning Lab
Founded By: 

LaRae Hulsey

I’ve always had a passion for working with children and witnessing their growth in a nurturing learning environment. The joy of seeing young minds thrive, develop confidence, and embrace knowledge has been the driving force behind my commitment to helping children feel empowered to learn. My goal as an educational guide is to foster a love for learning while

building strong, positive relationships within a classroom community.

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I believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about developing essential life skills such as teamwork, respect, hard work, and resilience. By establishing trust

and meaningful connections with learners, I strive to create a space where they feel valued and empowered. Through autonomy, a growth mindset, and project-based learning, I encourage curiosity and self-belief, inspiring learners to take ownership of their educational journey.

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Recognizing that every learner progresses at their own pace, I appreciate the significance of one-on-one interactions. I find immense fulfillment in providing hands-on learning experiences that cater to individual interests, allowing for deep exploration of subjects that spark curiosity. My approach ensures that learners not only absorb information but also develop critical thinking and

problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout life.

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I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to offer diverse educational options to learners and their families within our community. It is my mission to guide learners in a way that makes them feel safe, valued, and capable of achieving success at every stage of their journey. By nurturing a

love for learning, I hope to equip them with the confidence and enthusiasm to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and into the world.

Learning Journey with Jen
Founded By: 

Jennifer Finch

Hi! My name is Jen, and I’m a guide with Learning Journey with Jen LLC here at Baker Creek Academy. I’ve been married for 13 years, and I'm a proud mom to two amazing kids. I’m an old-school homemaker—who also happens to love her dishwasher!

Until the 2024–2025 school year, my children attended public school. However, I made the decision to transition them to BCA, and it has been truly transformative. This new learning environment has brought out the best in their personalities and allowed them to thrive academically at their own pace.

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I believe education should be tailored to the individual. One size doesn’t fit all, and that’s exactly why I’m so passionate about what we do here. BCA fosters autonomy, encourages creativity, and supports a love of learning—all while valuing the importance of family and individuality.

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This year, my class includes 8 peer spots, which gives me the opportunity to personalize each student’s learning experience. We’ll be using engaging programs like Lexia, Mathseeds, Reading Eggs, CTC, and more to support academic growth in a meaningful and customized way.

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I’m so excited for the upcoming school year and to be part of such an inspiring and supportive community!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Baker Creek Academy Learner Interest Form

Please complete this interest form to get your learner on the waiting list for baker creek academy.

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please note: This form is for the Learner's interested in joining a guide at the Baker Creek Academy Building only.

 

Filing an interest form does not guarantee enrollment.

Interest Form
(BCA Bldg. Only)

Thanks for submitting!

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