Billionaire Backed Alpha School Lacks Teachers, Allows Student Earnings
A new educational model has emerged with the introduction of the Alpha School, a private institution that operates without traditional teachers and allows students to earn money while learning. Backed by billionaire investor Bill Ackman, the school employs an innovative approach that prioritizes artificial intelligence in its curriculum.
Located in the United States, Alpha School’s methods are distinct. Students from kindergarten through 12th grade engage in two-hour lessons powered by “AI-enabled software,” which covers various subjects quickly. Following these lessons, the remainder of the school day consists of hands-on activities, including workshops and business education opportunities. According to the school’s principal, Joe Liemandt, the institution deliberately avoids traditional concepts of teaching, opting instead to refer to its staff as “guides.” This rebranding reflects a broader philosophy that distances itself from conventional educational practices.
The compensation for these guides is notably high, with salaries starting at $100,000 per year. This figure positions Alpha School as a competitive player in the educational landscape, attracting attention from affluent supporters like Ackman, who is known for his significant investments and influence in various sectors.
In a unique twist, students at Alpha School can earn money through their academic efforts. Liemandt explained that earnings from school-related activities can be directed toward personal projects, such as travel for extracurricular activities or investments in funds. This opportunity aims to nurture financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills from a young age, potentially shaping a generation of economically savvy individuals.
Questions regarding the school’s approach to the humanities, such as history and literature, remain unanswered. A request for comment from Gizmodo regarding these subjects did not receive a response from the school. Meanwhile, Ackman’s hedge fund, Pershing Square Capital Management, has not publicly elaborated on his interest in the educational venture. A representative stated, “We don’t have any additional color to provide at this time.”
In addition to his involvement with Alpha School, Ackman has been an outspoken supporter of former President Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential campaign. His enthusiasm for Trump’s policies has varied, particularly when concerns arose regarding Trump’s tariff strategies and their potential negative impact on the stock market. At one point, Ackman cautioned that such policies were damaging confidence in the U.S. as a trading partner and investment market. Nevertheless, as market conditions improved, Ackman appeared to reaffirm his support for Trump.
The emergence of Alpha School highlights a significant shift in educational paradigms, emphasizing rapid learning through technology while eschewing traditional educational norms. Whether this model will gain traction among parents and students remains to be seen, but the backing of influential figures like Ackman certainly raises its profile in the competitive landscape of private education.
