Patchwork School

The Patchwork School is a multi-age learning community, the heart of which is a democratic school. Through relationships, Patchwork supports parents, teachers, and children in finding meaning, joy & self-direction in their lives.

Located in Louisville, Colorado,The Patchwork School works with children, families, and the community. Within the school’s educational environment, an equal importance is placed on both freedom and responsibility and an understanding that all people, regardless of age, are agents for change when they engage critically and compassionately with the world. The school builds these values by engaging in teacher training, parent education, toddler, preschool & K-12 programs, as well as in the local and global community.

The name “Patchwork” comes from the idea that we pull together all of the best pieces of various philosophies rather than dogmatically choosing only one. This allows the school to evolve to meet the needs of the children, the community, and the times.

Patchwork practices democracy every day. Within the various “circles of responsibility,” the children, staff, parents, and also board of directors operate on a consensus-based decision-making model, allowing all voices to be heard, and allowing all participants to continue to learn together about what it takes to truly listen.

Although the school uses bits and pieces of many approaches, it relies heavily on principles that are gleaned from democratic education, Reggio Emilia, and humane education. One thing at the heart of all three philosophies is community—so Patchwork has designed a school that is built upon relationships with other people, animals, and the earth.

Contact:

Michele Beach, Executive Director and Teacher

http://thepatchworkschool.com