A new K-8 school set to open in Tampa this fall will use artificial intelligence to tailor learning experiences for each student.

“At Alpha School, it’s not about being the smartest—it’s about learning at the pace and level that works best for you,” said co-founder MacKenzie Price.

Alpha School, which already operates campuses in Texas and Miami, will open its newest location on N Dale Mabry Highway in Carrollwood in Fall 2025. The school uses AI to personalize curriculum, allowing students to progress based on their individual strengths and needs.

“Our students learn twice as fast in just a few hours a day compared to traditional classroom settings,” Price told WTVT.

The school day runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. During the first two hours, students use AI-driven software to study core academic subjects at their own pace.

“The AI tutor might detect that a student is struggling with fractions and suggest a review of multiplication first,” Price explained. “Another student who’s ahead can move on faster. It’s completely individualized.”

Instead of conventional lectures, educators at Alpha act as coaches and motivators, supporting students as they navigate a self-paced curriculum.

“If I need 15 tries to master a new concept, and you only need five, there’s no reason we should both be forced to do ten,” Price said. “This model lets each student get exactly what they need.”

Afternoons are dedicated to hands-on workshops focused on real-world skills.

“Our fifth and sixth graders this year created and operated a food truck,” said Price. “Last year, they managed an Airbnb. We emphasize entrepreneurial learning.”

Price acknowledged that this education model may not appeal to everyone.

“Some parents believe learning requires a teacher at the front of the room. We respect that, but our approach offers a different path,” she said.

According to Price, some Alpha students have completed entire grade levels in under 80 days thanks to personalized, AI-guided learning.

“That’s the power of AI—it finally makes true personalized education possible,” she said.

The new Alpha School in Tampa will open inside the Redline Athletics building, with plans for a permanent campus in the future. Enrollment is now open, and interested families can apply online.

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(Image credit: WTSP)

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