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The Open School is the first and only free democratic school in Orange County.
Our educational philosophy begins with the idea that children deserve to be respected for who they are.
At the Open School, children are allowed to create their own educational pathways that are driven by their innate passions, they participate in running the school at every level through democratic process, and they explore what personal responsibility means in the context of community.
Academic subjects are approached through personal interests, which are unique to each student, but what all Open School students share is a curriculum of self-empowerment, emotional self-regulation, compassionate communication and problem solving through restorative justice.
We also subscribe to a world-schooling philosophy that believes that the world is our classroom; we regularly take trips to beaches, museums, businesses, community events, and anywhere our students are curious to explore.
The Open School is unlike any other school. We begin with the
reality of the student: what are their passions, what motivates
them, what creates meaning in their lives We don`t seek to change
students; we know how amazing they already are. We facilitate their
growth by sitting along side them.
Our curriculum is the practice of freedom and responsibility.
Freedom means that students are never coerced to think or behave in
a certain way. They are free to live according to their own
conscience and interests, and design their own curricula and daily
routines. Responsibility means that students learn self-discipline
by practicing it daily. They focus deeply on their passions, set
their own pace, and are responsible for their own outcomes.
They are held responsible for their decisions, expected to
take care of themselves and their environment, and given the power
to truly have a voice in the school.This is learning by
living in a community of respect.
The brain is always learning, every moment of the day, unless
the mind is stressed, bored, or angry. We believe that since life
is meant to be enjoyed, so too is learning. What are you waiting
for The future is open.
Six Things Our Families Love:
World schooling means the world is our classroom, and we go
experience it every week.
Restorative Justice means we have compassion while still
upholding rules and through this we support the development of
self-discipline and empathy.
Democracy means that everyone`s voice is important in all
matters. Since there is no hierarchy in the school, students learn
how to advocate for their interests and work collaboratively to
legislate school business.
Freedom means students learn how to emotionally self-regulate,
be confident in their decision-making, and pursue their passions
without constraint.
No Homework means that parents and children can enjoy their
time together, which is as developmentally important as anything a
school could offer.
Age Mixing means that students are not segregated by age.
Because of the relative similarity in brain structures, children
are often better teachers of each other than adults could
be.
Grades: 6-12 | 334 students3.3 miles 1838 N. Shaffer St. Orange, CA 92865 (818) 900-1895
3.3
6-12
334
School Reviews
5.00 out of 5(3 reviews)
52/9/2024
My two daughters have been attending The Open School and it has been an incredible journey for them. They eagerly look forward to going to school every day, which speaks volumes about the nurturing and engaging environment the school provides. This K-12 democratic school truly respects each child, treating them with dignity and acknowledging their unique goals, needs, and paths. The small, safe environment promotes not only academic growth but also significant social and emotional development. The mixed-age setting has been fantastic for fostering compassion and leadership skills. Most importantly, the school's approach of valuing each student's voice and interests has greatly boosted their self-confidence and independence. We've noticed a remarkable change in our daughters they're more inquisitive, confident, and happier. The Open School is not just an educational institution; it's a community where every child can thrive.
- Posted by Parent - Nicole Sands
53/10/2018
The Open School was created as a safe place for children to grow and transform their lives, and it did that for our son. His time at The Open School was a pivotal turning point for him. And to Cassi and The Open School, for this, we are eternally grateful for what they have created and it`s role in our son`s life! He`s more happy and confident after his experience at The Open School! We could go on and on, but what we really want to say is: Thank you, thank you!!
- Posted by Parent - HappyParent
510/29/2016
I love the philosophies find this school! Ben and Cassi are wonderful leaders! My kids are learning so much about life and how things work in the real world! My kids are learning what they are passionate about and how to make anything they want to learn possible!
- Posted by Parent - Lovem
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