I recently read an article entitled “Campaign Notes,” in whch the author simply gushes about the political experience her son and daughter have gained by running for various school political offices. Her daughter, Zoe, was elected 3rd grade class persident – during her 4 week term, she made many important changes in the classroom. To quote her “State of the Classroom” address, given shortly before the next president was elected: Read more

This morning, while enjoying a cup of coffee and an unusually quiet start to my day, I clicked on an MSNBC link entitled “10 songs for back to school.” It led me to the following article: Read more

“This is what democracy looks like!” This is a slogan I have heard chanted at various rallies and protests. During those experiences, I agreed. After working at the Sego Lily School for four months, where democracy is integrated into the culture of the school, I have formed different ideas. Read more

“Every four year old, every fourteen year old, and every forty year old who walks into the school notices immediately the trust that allows individuals of all ages to lead their lives in ways that are purposeful and intense. To be trusted means that you are free to go about your day in whatever way you wish, and to pursue your education and your happiness, whether in ways that look traditional or in ways that look decidedly different. Because so many decisions go into utilizing such complete freedom each day, every person learns, first and foremost, to trust themselves and their own methods of learning and growing.” Read more