Hardison Mill Schoolhouse - the one-room schoolhouse, reinvented.

The Hardison Mill one-room schoolhouse was created from the outpouring of love and generosity from thousands of individuals when beloved country music singer and Hardison Mill resident, Joey Feek, passed away from cancer in March 2016. Countless cards and letters from people all over the country and world sent condolences, and encouragement along with cash and checks to help in any way they could. The money received was nearly a hundred thousand dollars. A year later, Joey’s husband Rory used that money to build the schoolhouse for their then 3 year old daughter Indiana. Knowing that, though the school was built as a way to school Indy at home, it would be filled with lots of other children in our community.
In the fall of 2017, friends and neighbors of the Feek family and the Hardison Mill community came together for an old fashioned barn raising. Only instead of a barn, they raised a schoolhouse. With the help of dozens of men, women, and children in the community, the floor, four walls, and roof trusses were raised over one weekend. The schoolhouse was finished out in the next few months by Keith Hunley, Rex Whorton, Dennis Monroe, Derrick Mote, Chris Butler, and a few other talented builders and workers.
The goal of the schoolhouse is to serve the children and families in and around our Hardison Mill community. Not only educating them, we want to teach them to love learning and skills to grow, love life, and hope in a world where all those things are constantly being challenged in schools, homes, and work spaces. As an integrated farm school, our schoolhouse sees all children as special, whether their needs are unique or typical.
Taking cues from the one-room schoolhouses that dotted every small and large community in the United States a hundred or more years ago, our school purposely has an enrollment of only 15 children. Our classroom is a patchwork of multi-age children, to more clearly model our learning environment after actual family life. Though we have two full-time teachers and a school director, we also believe that everyone in our community is a teacher that the children can learn from (and they can learn from our kids), so our curriculum includes instruction from ’specialists’ from all walks of life: farmers, chefs, beekeepers, retired persons, and everyone in between.
Learn more about Hardison Mill Homestead School here: www.hardisonmi...

[@RealityChick77]

This kind of schooling I wish ALL kids had access to. Honoring God, country, and family is so very needed

[@lorienos55]

I think if a lot more children grew up like this , the world would be a happier place 🤔

[@thefirstMrsLankton]

The teacher mentioned Fred Rogers. I believe Mr. Rogers would've loved to visit Hardison Mill School and honored to call it his neighbor. These are small dreams and goals sitting under our Heavenly Father's bright blue sky, and its glorious!

[@lifeofallen4442]

It's a beautiful idea to have a school house on the farm. Thank you for keeping the pledge of allegiance in school. Also the community has a family friendly atmosphere that the world lacks on. God bless you all

[@deborahggillespie82]

How inspiring. It made me miss my days of teaching kindergarten children. God has given you a beautiful gift and vision. Yes, He's the Master of "beauty from ashes".

[@ruthiepooh86]

I can imagine Joey grinning from ear to ear! What a wonderful tribute.

[@sandyjacobs6202]

Isnt JOEY soooooo proud of her family here until then from my soul to yours ease laughter deep heart felt rest and peace from our heavenly savior

[@jillhuddle7379]

We need alot more Rorys in the world with the visions he has , and the love for his child ....Thank you Rory for sharing your world ❤🙏🙏

[@-angie.]

I know Joey would be over the moon proud of this amazing little school and the beautiful learning environment for these precious little ones! Honestly, I would love to see schools such as this in every community. I so hope the online program is the inspiration for others to follow suit.

[@karenculpepper973]

Such a blessing all around. Public school is broken. I homeschooled both my boys their entire school years. They are now in college and make the Deans list every semester. I wanted them to be their own person and not conform to what society says they should be. What a blessing this school is for that community.

[@lindathompson8620]

The school house is such a great place for Indy to learn. Joey is looking down on Indy with a smile on her face. Indy .is such a beautiful little girl. And you Rory your such a great father. I love you all. God Bless you all always .🙏

[@maryfox925]

The school of love that love built

[@cathleenbodiker9292]

Perfectly said..

[@barbseverino1278]

Rory thank you for sharing! Those children look so happy. Indy is thriving. Your beautiful Bride must be so proud of you and Indiana. Also proud of every teacher and Mentor. Please keep sharing.❤️🙏

[@amycorallo6044]

As a teacher, this is the dream teaching environment for both educators as well as the students. So happy to see this happening. It is a gift from God. I am inspired to dream big from this educational environment!

[@MeAndThemThemAndMe]

You have an amazing story telling voice Mr. Rory, I could listen to you all day. What an amazing place you have put together for Indiana and the rest of the children that go to the one room school house.❤️

[@annieportier3584]

I have a learning "difference." This type of school setting would have been perfect for me!! I struggled in the "regular" schools. How blessed are those little ones!!

[@shellydehart8217]

What a beautiful video ... brought tears to my eyes. Gosh how I wish we could go back in time when life was so simple then. That is what this video meant to me. How blessed all these children’s lives will be being educated thru this “ little red school house “

[@Montanajade]

This is so beautiful, I cried.. The blessing you have givin these children will enrich the rest of there lives.. How I wish others would learn from this. Thank you!!

[@hollyfisher8811]

Mama is Smilin' from ABOVE💖~:)

[@jeaninemarielewakowski5974]

This is to both you, Rory & Indiana. How beautiful is your--------- Schoolhouse, & all the special anim- als, gardens, & other children, and all of the & teachers, helpers, and such! What a beautiful place to be! I thank you for sharing this with all of us, & so looking forward to what you are going to bring to us, in the future! With Loving Wishes, & Blessings, and Prayers! Jeanine Faith Marie Fitzpatrick- Lewakowski

[@eileenwelter90]

What a great place for Indy and her friends. It almost seems like a dream.

[@cherylcampbell7495]

So beautiful Rory. Thank you for sharing with us. Love watching the children grow. Love you and God bless you all.🐐💕

[@marnie8943]

My son would be there, if he wasn't almost 18. The struggles of learning in a regular school with Asbergers and ADHD we're always there. The anti-bullying mandate was inadequate during his elementary years, and nonexistent in grades 4 throughout 12. Our country would be a better place, of we went back to this type of teaching.

[@jacobbleary4806]

WOW what an amazing video Rory! We need more of this in this amazing country. It would make our children so much better people through their lives and they would learn much better values in their lifetime!

[@Suzismart]

It is amazing how God takes something broken or bruised and turns it into something beautiful. We may not always understand his plan or purpose but they are always perfect. God is so good all the time. Praying for each of the children that are impacted by your amazing school and for the teachers as well.

[@thobbs5138]

This is so awesome I wish we could could all have schools like this for our children and grandchildren. These children will grow to be good kind loving adults.

[@kendratalbot3709]

I have to admit this is one of my favorite videos you have made!!! I also miss the simpler times and swear they were where my life would have fit best. But the world always seems to be getting more advanced and faster paced. Seeing what a beautiful thing you all have made is wonderful to see. I believe our children need more one on one or even wider knowledge instead of all the technology. I think that we have forgotten to teach the basics these days causing many of our now adult kids not to even know how to cook. This is beautiful!!!

[@davidmartinson1528]

I have followed you two since your audition on can you duet. Seeing the beautiful school you built for Indy and the other students is amazing, how you do it every day is guided by nothing but pure faith. You're music helps me live every day." If I needed you" helps me move every day

[@KateCarew]

So beautiful, Indiana is so precious and carrying on Joey’s vision is truly heartwarming. These children are luckier than they’ll know for a very long time, my heart is swelling! I wish more people did this, it seems small but if we could embrace the past a bit more we would surely save our future 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@judyrogers9313]

We need more Rory’s in the world! We certainly need more Indiana s!!!!!! God bless you all

[@wallywasinack255]

Rory thank you for sending this beautiful video. God is surely smiling down on you, Indiana and your family and filling everyday that one room Schoolhouse with joy and his love. I believe the Lord has more for you to do and may include our Vietnam veterans.

[@karenbiberstine226]

What a beautiful and wonderful place to go to school and get back to the basics!!!. I just love this!! We need more of these schools around! Thank you Rory

[@pattyfowler4678]

Rory you are so inspiring. It is so touching what you have done❤️ God bless you and your family 🌻 Indy and the children are so lucky to have y'all 💕

[@cullumkille2372]

This is wonderful! You have done a very special thing. Thank you, for making the world a better place.

[@phyllisgray8199]

How is inspiring this is. God Bless you Rory Feek. Absolutely heartwarming.

[@mswinslow2396]

As an educator this takes my breath away. I would do anything to just volunteer in this type of an environment. God bless you and all that you’re doing.

[@chericovrett5252]

God Bless you for what you are doing. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@donnamorris827]

Thankful and bless for all your family and. Happy 💒 day and daughter s. Donna

[@ruthiepooh86]

I believe the school consolidation and shutting down of local, small schools was a giant step toward the decline in American education. Wonderful that you’ve made one tiny step to help rectify that.

[@stephanieperkinson9318]

Such a wonderful Dad, so much love 💘 lucky kids! May God continue to Bless you Rory!

[@bethsmith2612]

Rory you are truly an inspiration and blessing to this world. My family is so happy for you and Indy, Joey is looking down at you so proud,may God continue to bless your family ❤️🙏

[@virginiavargas893]

Rory, you have a way with words. I love to see happy children enjoy LIFE in the red school house. They have bright & nuturing teachers, whom I believe will leave a lasting impression on all these beautiful children, and Indy too! I imagine Joey smiling down from up above and saying...All Is Well!

[@theroyallifeofwarriorgrace6272]

I love this! So Awesome! This should have never ceased from being what is education. Thank You Jesus! I celebrate you and being willing to stand for The Order of God. Jeremiah 29:11

[@cyndilu61]

This is so wonderful your awesome Rory to do this for those beautiful children.Indy has really grown and is so pretty like her mamma.I know Joey is so proud of you and Indy the sun shines brighter over that school house as Joey smiles down on all of you God Bless you and Indy and all who have a part in this❤️🌻❤️

[@brendaanne0810]

BEAUTIFUL and PRECIOUS!! Thank you Rory!! Sending you love ❤

[@The1952trouble]

I grew up going to school in a one room school house and i must say THOSE were the BEST years if my life. God Bless you and your work and your BEAUTIFUL daughter Indy.

[@janetbrowning9089]

I so wish that this little "one room schoolhouse" existed in more communities...the education that children are getting today is missing so many things...what it takes to really be ready to face the outside world...yes, there may still be things they will have to learn to compete, but basically, they are learning principles of life...something so many children today are not learning & are not exposed to. Bless you Rory for having this beautiful school & for all those that are involved in this project & of course, all of these precious, beautiful children!! 😊🙏💖💌🏫

[@shellcshells2902]

This is my heart! The way it's supposed to be!

[@ava27beaver80]

Thank for what you are doing Rory, and GOD bless you .

[@debragalvan9425]

This what kids need now

[@marryannlamb9853]

GOD Bless you Rory . Thanks so very much for sharing.Give the kids a hug for me they are precious children.

[@lisakay1006]

God bless you and Indiana!! Your so inspiring ❤️

[@fasx56]

Restored One Room School House. What a wonderful way to bring back in real time some history on how kids went to school in generations past. Your restoration is Top Quality, the building is functional and looks very attractive.

[@kathrinekerns8398]

What a wonderful vision. Praying for your daughter, and all the children involved. Amen.

[@34purplepower]

This is wonderful, God Bless you.

[@pauladaniels6936]

Oh how this world needs more people like you. God bless you all.

[@ellenherman9543]

Omg Joey is looking down on you with that big beautiful smile with such love and so proud of you rory. You are awesome!

[@cathleenbodiker9292]

Love your description of your amazing journey with Indiana and the other children and the teachers are getting an education that will really benefit them in the real world. Back to basics. Amazing.

[@thestormchasingconservativ6999]

Mr. Rory Feek, you're truly a *blessing* and a *angel* Thank you for blessing these beautiful children and giving them a education. 🌞🤟🏼🙏🏻💛🌈🤠🌞

[@arlenemorehouse8625]

Can not wait for your homeschool videos.

[@mountainmedium111]

Prior to the Aspen Fire burning down our entire mountain town, we had one of the last 10 one room school houses in the US! I loved raising my Son this way! He was an only child, & the 16 other children were like our huge extended family! Our kids went on hikes, learning about all the plants animals, & trees! We did star gazing to identify all of the constellations. We had plays, sang songs, & I ( a parent) dressed up as a Fairy God Mother, & read stories on weekends. The kids got to choose a different hat out of 2 big boxes for each story; we called them thinking caps! It was such a precious time, & I am so grateful My Child grew up this way, with so much Love, & a great extended family! Wishing you incredible Blessings in your. New One Room School! 🍋⛰🍋 🕊🌏🕊🌎🕊🌍🕊

[@gravity422]

How Beautiful..I could just listen to you talk all day Rory...you should do story time with all of those little one's or maybe you already do ..One thing I know for sure Joey sure is loving all that you are and all that you are doing for I know she is Always with you and little Indy...May God continue to Bless you all...

[@silvertears100]

i only have one word WONDERFUL

[@tinaabney145]

School in America should be this way, like the old ways of learning teaching the kids ❤ This way is awesome & precious 😊

[@Cassxowary]

everywhere not just the american landmass but yess

[@jeannerobins8166]

This is so wonderful but it’s so good to see Indy growing.

[@conniedoan6917]

What a fantastic idea. I wish that every community had a place like this to teach their children good values along with learning the basics. 👍❤😁

[@esthermiller2713]

I treasure my memories of the one-room schoolhouse I attended from age 6 until we moved into a community on the outskirts of a large town (now a very large city)...when I was 10.There was of course a wood-burning stove in the middle of that one room.....because our Canadian winters get very cold. There were two outhouses behind the schoolhouse,....& a continually-flowing concrete fountain in the school yard....with the clear clean water coming up from an underground source of water that was the purest water in existence anywhere. Our teacher taught all eight grades there, but combined grades 3 and 4 in one school year. Mrs. Wattie, a sweet gentle forgiving believer in Jesus, taught in that country school from the age of 18 until she retired at age 65. She was very much loved & respected & taught with consistent wisdom & loving dedication. I’m looking forward to seeing her in heaven.

[@truejoie]

Thank you for sharing this story. Love it

[@sunny4jenny]

I love everything about this! Wishing the world could take a page out of this beautiful book of life you’re writing. 😊🍎🏡🌱🔆🧩👨🏻‍🌾🖍🐓🎵🤟❤️📝

[@shosho63449]

god bless you rory you are a very special person may you and your little indy have many days of sunshine and happy times xx

[@45Happydays]

How beautiful is this setup Thank you Jesus ♥️🕊♥️

[@wandadoty]

I love you both , God bless!

[@andrewstacy2233]

Wow what amazing love. Just love Indiana love all the videos Rory feek thank you for sharing

[@Vintage_Papers_and_More]

This is what school should look like

[@lucyyoung77777]

BRAVO.

[@wowlife2169]

I wish my grandbabies had a school like this. My first grandchild started Kindergarten and had to walk into a school building of over 900 students. It made me tear up for him. There is so much labeling kids because they don't fit into the learning box that the education system say they fit into. My little grandson is very hands on child, very smart, it worries me that his world has now become very restricted to sit at a table all day, follow the rules of 20 to 25 kids day after day. Our society has compartmentalized education on these children.

[@suzyq6767]

I'm a retired cottage school teacher. Oh, what I wouldn't give to teach at your school. I would love to watch videos of your real-life Mr. Roger's school. Thank you for sharing.

[@shellyvavrick1088]

That's awesome, lucky kids, you are awesome Rory!!👍👍❤🏡🏡🏡🏡 I bet Joey is very happy about this

[@sheliarogers1988]

What a BEAUTIFUL one room school house for these kids to learn in. Joey would have loved it.

[@anniep.5681]

My heart bursts with joy and thanksgiving with every episode. To God be the glory and praise and adoration for the great things HE is doing through the Feek family. We are the benefactors of Joey’s dreams and we are the fruit of her labors.

[@kristens3075]

I wish every community had a school option like this. I will be homeschooling my daughter this year but would love for her to learn in an environment like you've created.

[@libbyjensen1858]

I absolutely love this. What a incredible way to use the money. I wish more communities could do this and I wish I could have had this opportunity for my children when they were growing up. Beautiful!!

[@katiemiller6034]

Inspiring for all the World to see!

[@weescotties]

Looks like an amazing school! The children must love it there!

[@jeanettescott2018]

Such a lovely little school. Doing really inspiring work. Making children happy and educated. They are all little angels. Who will all grow up and pour love into many others lives. A beautiful example of Gods love and light. Thank you for warming my heart. 💗💗

[@heikodobbe7689]

Wow, those children are privileged,great video.

[@theshyguy65]

This is what schools should be and not like the public schools we have

[@vickiefinney6073]

I love what God is doing here. I will pray He continues to use you. Blessings ❤🙏

[@MsSusieq1960]

This is so awesome. I really like that school

[@clarissasprangers7198]

I have been thinking of having a family farm that is mostly self-sustaining as far as food, but then I started thinking about how I would love to open my own school. This was so close to what I had in my mind. It was so inspirational to watch this short video. I actually have tears in my eyes. Thank Y'all so much for all you do for those kiddos and the community.

[@GCA_tv316]

So beautiful full of love... This kids is so blessed

[@inezrosafrancisco]

This is so INSPIRING to ser what wonderfull and marvellous things LOVE CAN DO....BLESSED BE!!! 🙌🙏❤️🌹💚🕊️🌿🌿

[@susanmurphy958]

How Beautiful.

[@elainewallace3381]

You just need to look at the childrens faces to see how happy they all are to be in such a wonderful school Fantastic

[@DanielMedina-cy5ue]

RORY GOD bless you🙏🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@countrymusiclover5091]

You are an amazing human being Rory Feek......sending love and payers 🙏🏻

[@tach9663]

This is beautiful. If only more children could have an educational experience like this.

[@melindamullinax5032]

This school ,children and teachers are amazing. Each day that I see what these children have learned brightens my day,as though they are my own children or grandchildren. So much love comes from this one room school house.Thank you Rory for doing this for these children.....so blessed.....loving everything they do...

[@peggyvick935]

I wish more of these schools were available for small communities.

[@lindahaar3323]

This is so awesome

[@berniceatkins4500]

So proud of what you all have accomplished