free education guide info

The Teddy McArdle Free School is the non-profit independent school situated in New Jersey based upon the free and democratic school educational philosophies. It was opened in the autumn of 2007, with thirteen 5-12 year old students. Tuition for full-time students is accessible for families of various income levels.
Democratic free schools possess an eventful history that starts in year 1921 with English Summerhill School. The philosophy, like other 200 free schools in the world, maintains that kids are naturally innate and curious learners who, while free to make their choices in a supportive and nurturing environment, will improve all of the knowledge and traits needed for a satisfying and happy life. For that, there is no compulsory curriculum, testing, classes, or homework in the school and no age separation. All collective rules are defined at weekly democratic meetings in that every individual, whether adult or child, has one equal vote. Such non-coercive education approach allows each student to develop at their pace, so making a learner-centered environment tailored to every child’s needs.
School’s classes are proposed and managed by any interested person in the school, staff and students alike, with infinite possibilities to subject. For instance, in the first several months being open, the school has run classes from web design to mythology and from drama to engineering. Emphasis is put on improving a community where each student can develop his interpersonal skills by means negotiation of his freedom in the school. Moreover, reaching out to the community is a constant part of the school’s activities, with spontaneous and planned excursions, internships, offsite activities and classes, and many others.