How to Find the Right Facility for Your Hybrid School

This blog post is AI generated from the transcript of Episode 11 of my podcast, Hybrid School Builders.

If you’ve been following along in my series about launching a hybrid school, you know that one of the most time-consuming—and critical—parts of the infrastructure phase is securing a physical facility.

Today, I want to walk you through what that looks like for a hybrid program, especially if you’re starting part-time.

Understanding Your Infrastructure Needs

When we talk about infrastructure, it’s not just the building. It also includes:

• Website presence

• Payroll and bookkeeping systems

• Insurance

• Admissions processes

• Payment collection

• Policies and procedures

All of this needs to flow together so you can operate smoothly, pay staff, collect student information, and communicate with families. While you can set up these systems while looking for a building, the facility search is usually the most time-intensive piece.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time Facilities

Here’s an important distinction: if you’re running a part-time hybrid school, you likely cannot afford full-time commercial rent—unless you’re filling multiple programs in the same space.

Some hybrid founders start with:

• Multiple part-time programs (e.g., a two-day program plus a three-day program)

• Shared spaces like community centers or churches

• Their own property, such as a garage, shed, or converted space

The key is to understand your program’s needs and your budget before committing to a space.

Choosing the Right Space

When selecting a facility, consider:

• Class size: How many students will you have per classroom?

• Daily schedule: How will kids spend their day?

• Outdoor space: Is nature study or outdoor play a priority?

• Storage needs: Will you have enough room for curriculum, books, and supplies?

• Practical layout: Bathrooms, locks, and safety considerations

For example, in our Charlotte Mason-style program, outdoor time was a huge priority. We needed green space, a creek, and woods for nature walks. That requirement heavily influenced which buildings we considered.

Remember, compromises are often necessary. You may have:

• Small classrooms but beautiful outdoor space

• Spacious classrooms but limited greenery

Your vision will help you decide which trade-offs are acceptable.

Facility Options

1. Personal Property

   • Ideal for very small programs (10–20 students)

   • Great for a pilot year while planning for future growth

2. Community Centers or Shared Spaces

   • Can work for part-time programs

   • Be mindful of setup and takedown demands on staff and teachers

3. Commercial Spaces

   • Typically expensive for part-time programs

   • May work if you plan to run multiple programs or year-round programming

   • Consider utilities, setup costs, and summer downtime

4. Churches (often the most affordable)

   • Many have classrooms sitting empty and offer part-time rental at cost

   • Can reduce expenses significantly compared to commercial rent

   • Ensure proper communication about your business structure (LLC vs. nonprofit)

   • Churches must protect their tax-exempt status, so clarity and CPA guidance are essential

Tips for Working With Churches

• Be transparent about your business structure.

• Encourage the church to consult their CPA if you’re an LLC.

• If you’re a nonprofit, explore volunteer support, grants, and tax-deductible donations.

• Understand cost responsibilities (utilities, wear and tear, supplies).

Church partnerships can be a fantastic way to start small while keeping your expenses manageable—but only if all parties are clear on expectations.

Final Thoughts

Your facility choice is deeply connected to your program vision. Start by clarifying:

• What matters most to your program and students

• How many children you’ll serve

• How the daily schedule will impact space needs