History of IDEA
Jeannie Oakes, Founder and Former Director
Youth Voice in School Finance
NEW REPORT: Los Angeles' road to A-G for all
Without Dollars and Sense Powerpoint
Past Educational Opportunity Reports
Bill Ayers and other school experts on education equality
- 03-08-2011
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Blog by Isaac Graves/Huffington Post
As a leader within the alternative and democratic education community, I am frequently asked the question, "What is democratic education?" When I was a teenager, and at that time a recent graduate of a democratic school, I used to give a fairly dogmatic and uninviting response which included a bullet point list of requirements to be "democratic." Surprisingly, this was not an effective method to talk about what I was most passionate about. This style of communication disappeared as I grew up and my experience as an organizer and educator evolved. I learned to approach individuals humbly, listen genuinely, internalize and digest, respond gently and with care, share what is true for me, and not feel as though I needed to provide answers and solutions. I learned what I try to teach the young people in my life today -- how to meaningfully and authentically communicate and be in community with others while honoring one's own unique self and needs. (more...)
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