My son is a current student at the Philly Free School and I really love that he has the freedom to direct his own learning. I think he has grown in amazing ways, he was always a good communicator however, his skills of communication are becoming more finely honed. Children need space to find and define themselves without judgement or negative critique's.
The staff are truly commited to both the children and preserving this unique model. They are all outstanding and highly intelligent people.
I love that the kids are learning about how democracy works and the processes therein. I also like the idea that the kids are not separated by age, or levels of understanding. One person, One vote.
The more I read about the conceptual basis for free school the more it makes sense. It is terribly important to determine your strengths and be self directed as early as possible.
Of, course the urban setting brings its own unique set of challenges and it is for that reason that I would like to see the kids have more field trips.
Since the school is new they are still in developmental stage in terms of implementation of procedures and policies - just like birthing a baby there is some pain, however the end result is always magnificent.
To the staff and students I say, stay dilligent, keep working hard and THANK YOU because you are a part of a very important work.