Mirkwood School: Our Philosophy

We believe that students deserve love, safety, nurturing, encouragement, a sense of their own worth, and the right to self-determination. We believe that learning is naturally exciting and joyful. We believe that the joy of learning is enhanced by self-expression, self-discipline, and self-determination.

Staff and students at Mirkwood play equal roles in the adventure of learning together. Our curriculum is student-led and individualized, and staff members facilitate rather than direct learning. We encourage students to follow their own interests and pursue their own courses of learning. Materials are readily accessible to all. Freedom of movement within the building encourages peer teaching and provides students with the inspiration that comes from watching others at work. Believing that the real world is the best classroom and that experience is the best teacher, we take full advantage of resources available in the wider community. Students have the opportunity to participate in many field trips, internships, and apprenticeships.

Our school provides an environment of mutual respect, nonviolence, and egalitarianism. Students learn participatory self-governance as they direct school policies and actions together with other students, parents, and staff, following the process of Formal Consensus in meetings.