Democratic Governance

Democratic Governance meetings take place on alternating Mondays. It is comprised of staff, students (elected officers and class representatives) and interested parents. The scope and jurisdiction of the school meeting focuses on non-academic operations and offers the students the experience of self-governance and self-management of issues affecting the day-to-day operations of the school. Agenda items are primarily generated through class meetings and are generally addressed in the order they are received. The meetings are chaired by volunteering students on a rotating basis.

Morning Meeting

Every school day begins with a school wide Morning Meeting in the multi-purpose room. The Morning Meeting sets the tone for the school day, consistent with our model of democratic governance in which the input of all is considered and valued.

Students actively participate in facilitating Morning Meeting, which includes acknowledgements, compliments and general school announcements. In addition, this model supports student growth in the areas of effective communication, self-confidence, empowerment and self-esteem. Parents are invited to join the Morning Meeting.

Class Meetings

Following the school wide Morning Meeting, each learning group spends the first part of the day in a Class Meeting. Class Meetings are designed to enhance cooperation, collaboration, problem-solving skills, conflict resolution, communication skills, accountability, responsibility, self-discipline, self-esteem and mutual respect. The academic portion of the day ensues after the solid foundation of cooperation and mutual respect is established.