No -- Means -- No

by Maria Corse
 
Our society, for the most part, does not understand the concept of a non-coercive educational environment; let’s just say there are many misconceptions about what this is and what our students do here, even when couched in the language of self-directed learning.    
 
Over the past few days, I have been pondering how to best explain “non-coercion” within our current cultural landscape.  Then I realized that (sadly) the social media phenomenon of #metoo, lends itself perfectly.  
 
Coercion, quite plainly, is when a person is either not allowed to say “no”, feels uncomfortable saying, “no”, or is forced to do something despite having said, “no”.  I’ll let that sit right here, for now.
 
Deep Root Center is different, because, it is a safe facility where the one, and only, rule is respect for self, others, and the space. And, everyone here is completely responsible for their own education.  This pronouncement goes beyond simple words; it is woven into the very fabric of our community.  No one is here unless they want to be.  Classes are not mandatory, in fact, no activity is compulsory.  Every single person, student or staff, is allowed to, sometimes actually encouraged, to say “no” to anything – suggestion, activity, event, or class that does not feel absolutely right at that moment. 
 
Many interpret this philosophy as easy, lazy, or even irresponsible.  I will agree that it is sometimes chaotic, messy, loud, and at times, even overwhelming – easy; however, is not a synonym I would use to describe non-coercive education or Deep Root Center.  Our students frequently have a difficult time figuring out what they are actually interested in studying or pursuing. They discover that they are expected to make important decisions – often, for the first time in their lives.  They are faced with making mistakes and learning from them.  They come to realize that self-directed learning is actually hard and sometimes ask for direct intervention with imposed structure.  As a staff, we recognize these signs of discomfort and instead of mandates offer guidance along with strategies to learn self-discipline and motivation. 
 
Our students also learn that they have a responsibility, as members of this community, to name, and bring into open discussion, those behaviors or attitudes that may be detrimental to or inconsistent with our culture of kindness and consideration – even though those conversations may make us feel uncomfortable or squeamish.  With that being said, there is also an unmistakable understanding that this community is open to everyone’s opinions and core beliefs as long as all of those differences are presented in a respectful and nonjudgmental fashion.  To be clear – this process is rarely painless and not always rosy or perfect.  We are all human beings who are learning and growing as we negotiate our way through emotions, as well as personal dogma and crises.
 
In modeling, free choice – we are teaching kids how to successfully navigate, survive, and actually thrive in a wider world that may not be as safe as our little community of learners. They understand that saying “no” is not only OK, but in some cases, absolutely essential for their personal well-being.  They recognize that standing up for themselves is neither disrespectful nor illegal. In addition, Deep Root Center students are learning how to communicate respectfully with people who may disagree with them.  They are acquiring these skills, because they are able to practice them now – every day - in a non-coercive environment where “no” is not only an acceptable answer, it is celebrated.
 
 

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DRC FAQ  
(a new feature of the DRC weekly blog)
 
Q - Do DRC students go on to college?
 
A - Absolutely.  In fact, we expect that all of our students will go on to further education, training, or inspiring work.

DRC teens will present a varied and compelling transcript of learning and experiences.  Colleges are very familiar with nontraditional and portfolio based transcripts.

DRC students are able to audit classes at both SUNY Canton and SUNY Potsdam.  By auditing one college class per semester (for a nominal fee) DRC students are gaining experience in a college classroom. These classes are included in their high school transcript.

Just as if a teen were to continue to attend traditional school, substantial work is required to prepare for college and to be accepted to competitive universities.  However, pursuing your studies at Deep Root Center allows greater flexibility and freedom in what you study and how.

Using North Star as an example, not only do the vast majority of North Star teens go on to college, North Star has three alumni who are now university professors, and one who is a superintendent, in addition to hundreds of successful professionals.
 
 
*Deep Root Center is a member of the Liberated Learner Network – all of whom are following the North Star model. 
 
*altered by permission – LightHouse Holyoke

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