Home

We each have a different definition of home. For some, it is a specific place; for others, it may be another person or a feeling with no particular location attached. No matter how you explain it, most would say it invokes the sensation of comfort, safety, and warmth - a space and time where you can be your authentic self.

This past week, a teen returned to DRC a year after trying school again (without success). As soon as they walked in and pulled me into a hug, they said, "I remember this smell. It smells like 'old house'." (A valid observation considering 48 Riverside Dr. is over 150 yrs. old.) That, apparently, is a pleasant odor for them.

Most of our memories are indeed connected to smells. For this teen, that first whiff triggered all the other feelings they associated with DRC. They immediately revisited the joy of jumping in, reconnecting, and expressing themselves freely without fear of judgment or ridicule. For them, this is clearly home.

When people ask what we do, our response will always be that we are creating an alternative educational space and community, together, where everyone feels welcome, appreciated, and at home. Once we achieve this, everything else naturally aligns. Because, we understand that learning occurs when individuals feel accepted, connected, and safe.

Welcome home, BL!

DRC News

This week before winter break went by in a blur - again. Outside, kitchen, and art room adventures were plentiful.

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Sadly, we needed to again cancel this past week's Pop-ups. Janine will see everyone on January 8th at the Nicandri Nature Center. Notice the new Pop-ups' schedule; they will now be meeting on Wednesdays and Thursdays each week.

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