The Centers were off this past week for Spring Break, which is extended through Monday for the solar eclipse.

We are welcoming a crew from Boston to the NoCo for the event. They plan on touring the Canton Center late Monday morning.

Please be safe - get your eclipse glasses if you plan on looking at it in progress (I know the Canton, Massena, and Potsdam libraries have them for free), and don't be on the roads while it is happening. Find your viewing spot well ahead of time and settle in for the show.

You can order your shirt with our exclusive eclipse design to celebrate the experience.

Till next week - take care!

Last week, I mentioned that I am happy to be someone who can make decisions easily because it allows me to remain open, invite new ideas, and be "flexible enough to hone and play with the elements of the previous decision..." mainly because "...in my mind, nothing is ever finished - everything is an organic, shape-shifting progression."

When I wrote that, I had just spent the week ruminating about a plan I had brainstormed and shared with the Board the previous Thursday. It includes some painful changes here at Deep Root Center, necessitated by some rough fiscal realities and fraught with feelings of guilt, failure, and frustration - but has enormous potential for positive outcomes.

Since the beginning of this year, we have known that we can not feasibly financially support a second Center - while keeping our promise to accept any child who wants to join us - with a pay-what-you-can policy, and in the absence of significant grants or committed large scale sponsorships. We have tried in good faith with as much creative fundraising and community support as we can muster for the past four years but always with the same results, a gigantic red deficit - at the end of the year - driven by costs even with an austerity budget. Which ultimately puts all of Deep Root Center at risk.

Therefore, we have decided to close the Massena Center at the end of May and transition to a model we call - DRC Pop-Ups. (The Canton Center will remain open as is.) This framework offers a way for us to navigate our pledge to support as many kids as possible, seeking an alternative that puts each of them in charge of their education.

And now, presenting: DRC Pop-ups - for 24/25

• 2-day-a-week program --- 3-4 hrs/day
• Staffed with a mentor (contracted support person) - Per Diem
• Use a community room in a library, a community center, or a local small business.
  • We would not keep supplies or equipment in the space. Participants would be responsible for their materials and supplies (items could be stored at different participants' homes and brought each time
  • Potentially rotate the pop-up to a different space and town each week during each month. Ex. Massena, Norwood, Brasher or Winthrop, & ?. (After assessing the outcomes, we will consider creating more Pop-Up pods - in the future.)
    • Asking local businesses or organizations to host a DRC Pop-Up - creates an opportunity to network and create built-in support.
• Participants choose when to attend and can use their time at the Pop-Ups to socialize, work on collaborative projects, and get mentoring support. 
  • There would be a fee invoiced for the IHIP & LOI PKG at the beginning of the year and a pay-as-you-go fee - to be paid on the days the child attends. Accounts would have to be up to date before the child could participate.
• Current in-person Massena members can opt to do this new pop-up model or come to Canton for a 4-day-a-week program and pay a per-month fee as they do now. There could be opportunities for carpooling. 

We believe this plan will allow us to effectively increase the number of self-directed home schoolers we can support, both current in-person and current & future consultees. (I have helped over fifty with our consultation program this year.) It offers the services kiddos are already receiving from DRC and will (hopefully) be self-sustaining (with continued fundraising efforts). It also allows young people even more time for other opportunities outside of DRC, such as getting a job, volunteering, focusing on their future goals, creating a social network with other home schoolers, etc. 

Changes usually bring some sadness - but they also carry immense affirmative potential and satisfaction within all their "organic, shape-shifting progressions." That is the piece I am focusing on now. Onward!


*Note - any family I currently consult with is welcome to get in touch to learn more about our Pop-Up opportunities in the Fall. Or if you know of anyone who plans on homeschooling and may need our help - please let them know they can reach out anytime.

Besides navigating the above announcement, our kiddos have been busy at both Centers.

We began Spring Break on Friday and will continue through April 8th. We considered opening for the eclipse - but keeping our kiddos and their families safe from a potential influx of visitors and the traffic it will create was our biggest concern. Therefore, we will see all of our kids on April 9th.

Get your exclusively designed Eclipse shirt from DRC's Printify Shop.

Why do my life lessons usually involve reflecting on the stupid shit I did moments before?

Case in point, this post is inspired by my impulsive decision to hurry down a steep, muddy hill (with inappropriate shoes) - instead of taking the steps (or sending a kiddo) - to catch someone to give them something before they drove away.

I won't leave you hanging - yes, I did fall and get covered in mud, and I did dislocate my arm for the 5th(!) time. (Oh, yes, the kids got the items to the person before they left.) *Pro tip - after you have a couple of arm dislocations under your belt, it doesn't really hurt - much (although this one aches worse than #3 & #4 and feels more vulnerable to spontaneously dislocating), and you have the advantage of knowing what the Cunningham Method of reduction is - which you can tell the ER nurse to do instead of the technique that requires sedation (explaining how it is done if necessary).

The upside of being a person who is rarely indecisive is that I am not afraid of jumping in, making mistakes, getting dirty (quite literally), and fully understanding that I need to be flexible enough to hone and play with the elements of the previous decision. This is why, in my mind, nothing is ever finished - everything is an organic, shape-shifting progression.

The downside is that sometimes the decisions are impulsive, and the required pivot may involve a visit to the ER or an apology.

Thinking more deeply about it, I will always take the trade-off. Because - it also means that I am (mostly) open to the possibilities - within all the opportunities. Which allows me the freedom to follow whatever seemingly crazy, outside-the-box, unconventional ideas my neuro-spicy brain dreams up.

Now, I simply need to train myself to determine (and stop) the dangerous impulses that will land me in the ER or some kind of trouble - again. (If that doesn't go well, you will surely read about it here!)

Find this latest exclusive design to celebrate the solar eclipse in our Printify Shop. Every shirt purchased helps DRC.

Thank you to our friend, Kris Rozelle of Kris a Lis Designs, for spending a day at each Center this past week to make cool eclipse shirts with glow-in-the-dark fabric paint.

*The Canton Center will be closed on Monday to allow me an additional day to rest my arm.

I spent my typical writing day at the North Country Kids Expo talking to some fabulous folks about Deep Root Center - so I put together just a few seemingly random thoughts about fearing change - before heading out yesterday morning.

• Change is inevitable (as long as you are "above ground").
• It is often uncomfortable or painful.
• Fighting and railing against change only makes it more unpleasant and is less likely to lead to meaningful individual growth or progress for society. 
• Leaning into it with intentional flexibility, adapting, and actively problem-solving are some ways to lessen the fear, create another version of awesome, and thrive individually and as a community. 

Have you noticed that a direct demand often feels icky when you are on the receiving end? Most of us, by our very nature, resist being told what to do. A few of us often observe a dictate as an open challenge and intentionally do the opposite.

Maybe not ironically, the foundation of our traditional educational system is built on telling kids what to do and how, when, and where to do it.

We punish those kids who push back against that built-in coercion - and then place a laser focus on their deficits (and "bad" behavior) with more ineffectual intimidation and oppression.  

On the other end of the spectrum, some succumb after years of constant instruction, doing precisely as told (no more or less), and are rewarded.  

Children from both categories find their way to Deep Root Center. The kids in the first group often come with a bright red warning label that screams impulsivity and trouble. But all I see is restrained, untapped potential - endless imagination, problem-solving skills, and vision.

To be completely transparent - it is absolutely exhausting to be around all that chaotic energy, and I have to constantly remind myself that putting a leash on it would destroy the very essence of innovation and ingenuity that this world needs.

Working with those in the second group can be equally emotionally taxing. Don't be fooled - perceived victim-hood and "I can't" syndrome are absolutely real and crippling. These folks, even as adults, have no idea how to do anything without direction or rewards - they have no sense of creativity or problem-solving skills to speak of and throw their hands up in surrender when they bump up against anything that becomes even the tiniest bit challenging. Getting them to a place of joyful self-motivation - without using sticks or carrots is a herculean task, too.

In both cases, we actively try to avoid telling kids what to do. The first group wouldn't listen anyway, and we would only be setting the second group back by reinforcing their internalized helplessness.

Some would say we are creating a generation of "brats" who can't (won't) do what they're told - my response is we are supporting kids to be responsible for their words and actions - show kindness and compassion for others, and speak (show) up for themselves. All the while not sheltering them from the real world. 

The drawing for our Lotto Ticket Raffle is March 17th! Purchase your chances here.

Meet us at the Kid Expo next Saturday, March 16th from 10 - 4. We will be there with a table full of arts and crafts supplies for kids to create to their heart's content.  Stop in to learn more about DRC.

Lots of hands-on action and cool conversations were had at both Centers this past week.

As you may recall, "have fun" is how I end every consultation phone call. Additionally, that idea encompasses the foundational philosophy that we practice every day. 

Most of us intimately understand that having fun and exploring new things in a playful manner are the catalysts for creativity and innovation, while perceived fear, frustration, intimidation, and coercion shut them down. However, that concept is rarely carried through to our educational or work life - the two places we arguably need to be on top of our creative and innovative game.

At DRC-Canton on Friday, we had a clear example of this in practice. E, our excellent SLU volunteer, often has a fun Kitchen Sink Science activity for us - this week was no exception. The kids are always excited to see what she brings them. This time, she had them split into teams - each had a plate with a few blueberries, a couple of paperclips, and salt and pepper. The challenge was to remove everything from the plate separately without using their hands to touch the items on the plate. They could use anything else to move them - straws, magnets, or whatever they could imagine.

The kicker was that they had to think about it and write instructions before completing the task. E was clear on that instruction. And not surprisingly, that was the most difficult part of the entire activity for many. They wanted to jump in and play with their ideas and had zero interest in planning or writing it all down.

Some ignored her instructions and went ahead and experimented without drafting a strategy. Others tried to follow the rules - but had trouble articulating their ideas without first playing and exploring.

While listening in from my desk, I tried to explain to the kids that E wanted them to write their plan down so it could be replicated - one of the basic tenets of science. But they were still feeling frustrated with that part. 

A few kids did figure out the steps to accomplish the challenge. But the written part was definitely sketchy at best. 

When I checked in with E while she was cleaning up, I observed that the exercise most definitely served to reveal everyone's personality pretty quickly. Their responses ranged from deep frustration, nonchalance, to determination - one kid was actually separating each piece of salt and pepper methodically with a straw, another was convinced that water was the answer and mostly got it to work.

She replied that she had no idea that a couple of kids would straight-up "rage quit."  I think she learned something from the experience - too.

I was pondering all this early Saturday morning - thinking maybe if they were allowed to document the instructions while playing and creating, that would have made a difference for the kids who were most frustrated with the activity and still keep the scientific integrity that E was trying to teach. Then, I received Peter Gray's latest blog. 

And as often happens - his words directly related to everything I was trying to puzzle out. (I even sent it to E - as one more resource to think about.)

Therefore, I'll leave you to peruse his clear and concise essay (linked below) instead of attempting to wrangle and untangle these same ideas that are randomly bumping against each other inside my head - into something readable. Enjoy!

( PS - I highly recommend subscribing to Dr. Gray's Substack.)

The Playful Mind is a Creative Mind
From: Play Makes Us Human - by Dr.Peter Gray

What are you into? This is always the first question I ask during the initial conversation (usually by phone) with every kid I write a homeschool plan for - whether they want to attend Deep Root Center or are homeschooling on their own with DRC's consultation services. The responses range from an excited three-minute list to quiet "I don't know" with a nearly audible shrug.

After doing this for ten years, I have some thoughts about the "whys" behind those opposing responses.

I speak with kids who have been in school - and have given it their all - to no avail. Many of the teens gave up trying long ago. They understand the system inside and out and know that no matter what they do - it will have the same result - failure. There are many underlying reasons - but the outcomes are the same.

Some kids surrender to the inevitable - actually give up altogether. They have learned to hate learning - their ambivalence and apathy is palpable. These are the kids I have to pull every piece of information from. I work hard to get them to engage - even the tiniest bit. They give me nothing to go on. I have to guess, and when I make a suggestion - they whisper "sure" or "ok" with zero enthusiasm. I hang up or conclude the meeting - so sad that I could not break through - as defeated as these kids probably feel.

Then there are the fighters - the kids who know on a visceral level that school is not designed for them and refuse to go but are still excited about learning. They are fiery and fierce. These are the young people that give me hope for the future.

So, when I ask, "What are you into - not just school subjects but in life?" All the buried ideas, interests, and passions erupt into the light of day. Their enthusiasm is fueled by my interest and questions as the conversation continues. These kids who have been shut down by the system are suddenly alive and excited to explore the possibilities.

This exact scenario happened a little over a week ago. The mom of two teens had contacted me the day before because CPS was involved (educational neglect), and they had recommended that she call DRC.

When I say this 16-year-old was on fire - it is not an exaggeration. After explaining the process - and learning that he was held back twice, I asked the title question. This kiddo went off. He is into agriculture - plants specifically. He has a grow tent in his room and has figured out how to propagate house plants. He is also learning how to create bonsai. (I asked him whether he knew about Ikebana - the art of Japanese flower arranging. He hadn't, but he was going to look it up.)

His joy and enthusiasm fed my excitement and interest - in the end (after a very long conversation of bouncing ideas off each other) - we devised a homeschool plan centered around plants and his experiments with seed germination. Math is collecting data, arranging it in charts and graphs, and nailing basic computation - to learn business math and accounting. Part of ELA is keeping a detailed journal of his experiments propagating house plants and checking the viability of old flower and vegetables seeds (from his grandma), and writing his ultimate aspirations - perhaps even a business plan. I suggested studying Japanese culture for Social Studies based on his interest in bonsai - but he wants to study the World Wars. His science is a no-brainer - the kid lives and breathes the scientific method.

He had never considered that his passion for plants - could be anything more than an enjoyable hobby. He already understood that learning was fun - now he knows his interests have important implications for his future.

But the school labeled him a failure because he refused to sit down, shut up, and do the rote work that had no meaning to him. He was not interested in complying - simply to satisfy authority. Damn straight, he said "no" to the game of school. He didn't know how but understood he would be better off not jumping through hoops with the same dismal result - just for the sake of checking off all the meaningless boxes.

Now, with a bit of guidance, he is off and running. I didn't need to tell him to have fun - he is already doing that! I can't wait to watch where this kid goes and what he does with his passion for plants and life.

This is just one example of what drives me to do what I do. So many kiddos are falling through the cracks because they were told they don't measure up to "normal" expectations. They can exceed and succeed beyond anyone's wildest dreams if given a chance to step outside the box.

I firmly believe that one day in the relatively near future, I will no longer have to ask, "What are you into?" because every child will have the opportunity to freely choose, develop, and follow their interests and have a profound understanding of what it means to love learning. This means - someday, maybe soon, I will happily be out of a job and ready to explore the next opportunity. But in the meantime - I am here to advocate for every kid who needs me.

Did this week's story speak to you? Did you struggle in school - misunderstood and miserable? If so - my guess is you had no other options but to suffer through it (like me) or drop out as soon as possible.

DRC is here now for any child who needs us. We work with every family whether they can afford our services, --- or not. This policy continuously puts our bottom line in serious jeopardy.

Other actions you can take to support our kids:

Thank you to Stewart's Shops for funding our grant request with a $300 check this past week. We are grateful for their continued support of our work!

We are excited to have a couple of kiddos entered in the juried art show at the Massena Library. The opening reception is March 2nd - 11:00 -11:45. The exhibit is up until March 22nd. If you get a chance - check out all of the amazing art.

Both Centers will be back in session this coming week after our week-long winter break.
These are the cuties I spent my week with:

Thank you to DRC-Canton parent Josh L. for removing and replacing the decrepit original (to the house) backdoor with a much more solid and reliable one last weekend.

Our week in pictures from both Centers (ignore the blurry photos from Canton. I accidentally had the flash set on my phone when documenting our Kitchen Sink Science session, on Thursday.)

We have become a culture of obnoxious, busybody finger pointers. And I will argue that it is a problem of epidemic proportions.

It seems totally natural to comment and spotlight things about other folks that are absolutely none of our business. From personal choices or behaviors to how someone looks - whether we know the person or not - we are obsessed with pointing out the teeniest of tiny negatives or "wrong-doing."

I won't get into the psychology of it all - but from my vantage point, it appears that we are either drawing attention to things we see in others that we don't like in ourselves, it is a way to feel superior, create drama or pure entertainment, or we are simply jealous of others and their ability to make choices that allow their personality to shine through.  

It concerns me that judging folks for the petty things that are hurting no one and none of our damn business - and at the same time, withholding the multitude of systemic changes that will actually help society as a whole - in the long run - has become a national past-time. Stop it!

In our obsession with pointing fingers  - we forget that basic kindness, respect, care, and compassionate connection are the only way forward as a species.

YouTube Collaboration

Grateful for Volunteers

We have a delightful "crop" of regular volunteers who are connected and engaged with our learning communities this year. (Thank you, Kris, Virginia, Abby, Esme, and our new SLU CBL students - AJ and Carter.) New faces with fresh ideas and interests are always welcome. If you are interested in joining us - you can complete our volunteer application here.

Our week in pictures from both Centers:

 I am an intensely competitive person who has spent the past ten years building an environment designed to support and encourage people to focus on collaboration. So, which of the title terms works here?

Maybe it will become apparent with a bit of clarification.

In my head, the competition is always with myself - no one else. I expect exacting perfection from myself. As far as I can analyze it, the main reason is to avoid disappointing the people I make promises to and likely to prove to myself and others that despite being neurodivergent, I can absolutely do anything I say I will do - excellently.

Here are just a few examples:

• I hate being late - I don't want to make anyone wait on me - so I am often way(!) early. 
• I push myself to get things done earlier than I said I would, including trying to answer emails or messages as soon as I get them (but there are times things get lost or forgotten in the onslaught of communication I receive every day - which then spikes the "guiltometer".)
• I double, triple, & quadruple-check everything I send out to ensure no mistakes - but even then, I often miss something that I find as soon as I hit "send." (Cue the mortification.)
• I create (most) everything that goes into the world from DRC. This is totally something I take pride in. I consider myself a writer and creator and I am always trying to make my writing & designs better/more informational/(funnier) than the ones before. 
• I write everything in the Grammarly Editor app because I don't trust I will remember grammar or spelling rules and I want everything I write perfect. (Full disclosure - I never retained any grammar rules - despite a remedial class in college. I especially can't figure out where the freaking commas go, and I certainly can't spell worth shit.)
• I am devastated when I get below an A on any quiz or exam. (Which is even more perverse when you consider I don't believe in grades - or testing.)
• I need quiet and solitude for my brain to function optimally - yet, on the daily, happily choose to be surrounded by the noise and chaos a group of young people bring to any space.
• I like a challenge and love to learn new things - but I frequently get overwhelmed and frustrated with instructions and ditch them to eventually, after screwing up and making a huge mess, figure stuff out on my own. 
  
  

Lest you think I take myself entirely too seriously, I also treat making fun of myself as a competitive sport. (Honestly, it is way to easy and a guaranteed way to get a laugh.)

As hard as I am on myself, I am equally as easy on everyone around me. They all know the only thing I expect in spades is respect - in fact, it is our only rule at Deep Root Center: "Respect Yourself, Everyone Here, and this Place." And within the mutual appreciation, kindness, and care, collaboration is born. 

So, with this information - have you decided? Which am I - an oxymoron, a paradox, or something else I never considered? And how many of you identify way to closely with this entire narrative?

Either way, this is one more reason How do You Solve a Problem Like Maria is my theme song and will likely be my epitaph.

*Points for recognizing the musical it is from. (Ha, gotcha - there are no points or rewards - just a feeling of self-satisfaction!)
H/T to Kris R., our DRC- Canton Tuesday Volunteer and brand new board member, for instigating this thought process.

We have added four kiddos to our Massena Crew in the past two weeks and one to the Canton Crew. We are excited to welcome them to Deep Root Center.

In other news of additions - we are happy to announce two new board members to the DRC Fam. Welcome: Kris Rozelle, a local artist who has been volunteering at both Centers for the past few months and Lexi Marolf, the children's librarian at the Massena Library. Stay tuned for their bios on our Staff and Board page.

We had a busy week at both Centers which also included birthday celebrations:

Over the past few weeks, every conversation (too many to count) I have had with folks seeking my help (either kids themselves or their adults) has included references to intimidation, fear-mongering, or just plain old shitty (disrespectful) attitudes and behaviors. None of these tactics are about helping - they are all a form of control to retain the status quo.

When educational professionals resort to a fear-based, pigeon-holing approach - as their go-to tool - not only do they create an intolerable environment for kids - but within that, they also lose their students' curiosity, creativity, desire to learn, and respect.

Each individual's narrative represents nothing short of trauma. When each of these instances is combined through a young person's schooling years, is it any wonder we have kids who are anxious, rebellious, depressed, apathetic, have no real sense of who they are, what they like, or where they are going, and absolutely hate learning?

As I see it, in the most simplistic terms possible, education should encourage and support young people to become the best possible version of themselves, while helping them realize their goals, and prepare them to live in society as responsible, thoughtful citizens.

Kindness and encouragement support growth - intimidation and pressure literally shut it down. We can do better for them and for us.

The long-awaited solar eclipse is coming up on April 8th this year, and considering we are located directly in the path of totality, one of the other Liberated Learners Centers - from Boston (possibly others) hopes to take a road trip to view it here. We are excited to host other self-directed learners and show them around our beautiful and beloved NoCo. We will keep you updated on the planning.

Both Centers had a short week due to the inclement weather. The Massena Center had drama around a heavily loaded bookshelf collapsing - therefore those book loving Peeps spent time rescuing their reading material and are represented by three photos of their bookshelves in this week's photo montage.

K was our cook for the day. Pizza was on the menu. He made the dough early in the day and was about to start the pizza-making process when D wandered in and asked, "Can I help? Then E, who was not far behind, came into the kitchen and said, "Me too." The answer was, of course, "Yes!"

The important part of this tale is that up until early this week, D had never volunteered to join the Cooking Crew. On Tuesday, we were making French Toast bake, he was at loose ends so I asked him if he would like to crack the eggs into the bowl. He said sure in a less than enthusiastic manner - but did it - gaining confidence with each successful "cracking."

Therefore, I was happy to see him volunteering to become part of the Cooking Crew on Friday. He had a great time spreading the dough, smoothing out the sauce, and very precisely dividing up the cheese. E was insistent on grating the cheddar - that has been his long-standing "job."

Then, as the pizzas headed to the oven, it was time for the weekly "cooks meeting" to create the menu for next week - D happily joined the crew. I had to step away to take a phone call, so H. F., our junior apprentice, led the meeting. After I hung up, I noticed that D was looking upset. I asked what the issue was - he had suggested an appetizer day on the menu for Thursday, and another kid shot his idea down. We all worked it out by switching a few things around based on what we had in the cupboards and freezer so that D could have his appetizer day.

This kid went from total disinterest and ambivalence about joining the cooking crew to taking ownership in three days!

Just one more of many stories and milestones to celebrate!

P.S. The younger child, in the top photo collage, who was watching them spread the out dough is hopefully our next volunteer cook. He has shown interest over the past week as his buddies successfully took on more responsibility making our lunches. You will likely see his story documented as it evolves.

We have a ton of Magic the Gathering cards at both Centers - none of our current kiddos know how to play.
We are looking for folks who do and would be excited to come in to either Center to help sort the cards with the kids into decks and teach them the basic concepts of the game. 
Alternatively, we are also looking for volunteers who could facilitate a Dungeons & Dragons club.

And finally our week in photos - from both Centers

,Over the last few weeks, I've had a few frustrating situations related to explaining Deep Root Center and self-directed learning that, when looked at closer, were all closely linked to communication issues.

My neurodivergence offers a quandary - I don't always process verbal instructions or conversation easily or quickly (when the speaker has an accent or speech impediment, it is even more difficult). I have to check back to make sure I heard not only the words correctly but the tone as well.

I also do not always comprehend written communication as it is intended - whether it is reading the words in the wrong order, totally misreading a word (replacing with a similar one or one that begins with the same letter), trying to understand a message that has missing or misspelled words, getting overwhelmed by the sheer amount on a page (long paragraphs and pages chock full of text kill me), or again misinterpreting the tone.

There are a few hacks that I rely on to process information in most situations to minimize confusion. In my case, slowing down and taking time to ask questions, with a conscious effort, in the moment - and then using multiple modalities when there isn't a sense of immediacy is how I survive - a little bit of everything usually gets the intended message through.  

To add to the list of difficulties, when engaged in face-to-face or phone conversations, besides the processing issue, I stumble over my words, get distracted, have trouble recalling a term, or simply can't remember what I was going to say because my brain is always going six times faster than my mouth can get the words out. And because of all the above, getting interrupted shuts me down - completely.

My personal experiences are why I try to state things in multiple ways, using different modalities so that other people with processing difficulties (or who speak English as their non-native language) will find a version they understand.  

I am a writer. I am most comfortable and can clearly express myself when sitting in front of my laptop in a quiet space with plenty of time to play with words and get my thoughts into a cohesive, understandable form. Therefore, it will always be my first choice when my message is important.

Phone conversations are a necessary part of what I do (speaking with families interested in our services or talking with kiddos to get info to write their learning plans). I need to be in a quiet space where I won't be interrupted and can have my speakerphone on. Even then, I have to clarify frequently. Sometimes, it takes me a while after hanging up to process and fully comprehend what they said, and often realize that I forgot an important point.

This is why I wrote the pamphlet to explain the process of home-schooling and self-directed learning. Trying to describe how DRC works with in-depth examples of what self-directed learning looks like - several times a day - when folks don't fully understand is beyond exhausting. I needed something for them to refer back to after the initial conversation.

In the near future, I plan to also create a video version for those who have difficulty digesting the written form. Again, in keeping with the multi-modality theme.

Even though I find them tiring - I would never want to miss out on our daily conversations at the Center. They are all important, a few are casual observations, some deadly serious, and others are supremely hilarious - we learn multitudes from each other every day and laugh a lot in the process.

The topics are endless and all based on what these kiddos are into - at the moment. I am simply one more participant in some of these conversations. When I do chime in, the kids have become familiar enough with my speech style - stumbling, interrupting myself to clarify, losing track of what I was saying…, they usually understand my point. But if they don't, they are comfortable asking what I mean. As am I when I don't quite get what they are saying.

There is something to be said for building a cozy, safe environment where asking for clarification and offering support are the norm. And where it is recognized that none of us are dumb or stupid - we all have (or are working on) a variety of methods to understand the world around us.

It is acknowledged, even within that comforting, supportive space - feeling overwhelmed and exhausted from struggling to process the world, so it makes sense, is most definitely a thing. Sometimes, a long hug is a perfect remedy - other times, some of us require a few days of quiet and solitude to recover, reflect, and plan our next creative adventure.

Which is exactly what I will be doing this long, snowy weekend.

May you find the time and space to do the same.

The crews at both Centers had plenty of exploits this past week.

Yesterday, January 6th, marked Deep Root Center's 10th Birthday. Yes, I know - this date will always have other (unmentionable) unsavory energy attached. Nonetheless, we are observing this milestone with all the acclaim it deserves.

The following (revised a bit) is what I shared on our social media platforms yesterday:

Happy 10th Birthday to us! On January 6th, 2014, DRC started with one kiddo in a single room that was dingy and cold, without internet. That first month - we debated what we wanted more - WiFi or a reliable heat source. Internet was always the clear winner - as we huddled around our computers next to a tiny space heater, typing with gloves and bulky coats.

Today, we have two Centers - that are heated, with WiFi, and so much more - and over 40 kids who call DRC their educational home. They bring so much life, energy, and meaning to everything we do. We also support local youth to home-school on their own through our consultation services - over 50 kids - so far this year.

There have been some pretty lean moments when I honestly thought there was no way to survive - but we never wavered in our knowledge that DRC is a needed resource in the community. With that conviction and the help of our amazingly generous community, we are here to stay for another ten years - dedicated to keeping our promises and supporting the kids of the NoCo who want to join us.

This celebratory post would not be complete without bowing in gratitude to the many folks who have contributed to our success over these ten years:

1. My family - their unquestioning support of this crazy (totally bonkers) idea (passion) that takes up all of my time and energy and their willingness to share their skills and talents whenever I requested them
2. The Liberated Learners crew - When I was searching for the “thing” I wanted to build - you all were there with the perfect plan and unbelievable support system.
3. The wonderfully wise and compassionate people who have sat on our board over the years
4. A toast to our incredible staff - at both Centers - who go above and beyond every single day (Here's to you - Chris & Karen)
5. All of our kiddos and their families (too many to count) - showing up as their authentic, awesome selves, open to exploring all of the possibilities each day
6. The landlords over the years who worked with us to reduce rental fees and put up with our "chaos."
7. The Peeps who made it possible for us to purchase 48 Riverside Dr. in Canton
8. The generous Grantors, Sponsors, and Donors who have kept money coming into our bank account at just the right moments
9. Our incredible communities - who embrace us as one of their own - with wholehearted acceptance

Thank you from the very bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me in this endeavor!

Both Centers are back from Holiday Break and in full swing:

I am embracing the rest and ease my body and mind demand during this season.

Low light and energy are nature's signals to go within to seek inspiration for our future creative ideas.

Sending sincere wishes that you will find the space and time to honor your intrinsic desire (very human need) to hibernate, take a few breaths in the cold silence of deep winter, and gain strength to explore all the possibilities for your next adventure - as the light returns.

And my very best wishes for peace and joy for your celebrations and observations during this Holiday Season.

Karen (and Kris R.) got plenty of photos of DRC-Massena's last days of 2023, and I (as usual) got caught up and forgot to capture any of the fun - thankfully, Kris and Chris were there to get a few of the DRC-Canton Peeps.

The word childish is most often used as a slur. When invoked, it has nothing to do with the many beautiful attributes of childhood and everything to do with overtly dreadful adult behavior.

Bad behavior is just that - it is not even remotely related to the pure and wondrously wild curiosity, innocence, imagination, exploration, discovery, and immense growth --- physical, emotional, and cognitive of childhood.

Something to think about the next time you witness irresponsibility, disrespect, thoughtlessness, dishonesty, untrustworthiness, and plain old rudeness from an adult. Don't be afraid to call it out for what it is.

Both Centers were hopping this past week. Thanks to Kris R. for joining the DRC-Massena Crew to decorate cookies last week. Here are a few scenes:

There is no such thing - it is impossible. And, sorry to burst all you've been taught within the current systemic educational paradigm in one swoop, but the summer slide is also a myth and does not exist either!

There are three separate points here that are inextricably linked:

1. When you understand that every individual is a brilliant natural learner with their very own strengths, challenges, interests, and internal timeline, the artificial developmental schedule based on age and grade level makes zero sense. 
   
2. Once you really learn something, you can't lose it. Yes, if you don't use a particular piece of knowledge for a time, you may have to dig for a few seconds to find it - but if you really learned it, it will always be there in the depths. 
   
3. Even though the world is constantly changing, the knowledge considered vital 100, 50, 25, 10, or even 5 years ago is still taught - through memorization and dissemination from teacher to student, and deemed valid and current! We know that following interests and aspirations and working collaboratively in a diverse multi-age group with a trusted mentor - instead of competitively in a coercive setting is much more conducive to learning what we truly need as a society. 
   

But why are these myths so firmly ingrained and perpetuated if they don't exist?

In one word, FEAR. The establishment knows most parents will do anything to help their child and prevent them from being labeled incapable, incompetent, slow (dumb), a failure, or (heaven forbid) BEHIND!

Therefore, they buy into the "treatments" - more coercive, compulsory, rote, and remedial  interventions with little value or effectiveness toward authentic learning.

Simply stated, by definition, there is no room for the individual in standardization. Therefore, the traditional age and grade level developmental schedules can't be used to determine anything actually useful about an individual child (teen or adult). Except, as previously mentioned, to instill fear.

Neurodivergent folks are usually the biggest losers in this game. We will always appear to "be behind" in some skills - but "above" standard in others. And most professionals do not (will not) take the time to comprehend how we intentionally use our strengths (create hacks) to compensate for the things we "suck" at. And that, at our very core, we are on the leading edge of innovation precisely because of how our brains work. We are the questioners, the problem-solvers, the deep thinkers, the creators. We are who you want, leading the way in our constantly changing world.

If we all believed the stories we were told about being behind, we would still be forced to stay on task, learn things that make no sense to us, look at people when they speak, and assimilate to become "normal," all while being shoved into those tiny, predetermined, uncomfortable, and utterly predictable, unimaginative, yawn-inspiring boxes.

If you follow us on FB or Instagram or have tried to call - you know we have had some phone issues over the past few days. We apologize if you have been trying to reach us. DRC now has a temporary phone number: 315-323-1435. We will post on our social media and on the website when the issue is resolved and we get our phone number back. In the meantime, please use the temporary number. Our email, and other methods of contact have not been impacted.

Photos from this past week. Thank you to Artist Kris R. of Kris A Lis Design for coming in to make holiday cookies and sing karaoke with the Canton Peeps.

More than a few times this week, various folks have mentioned how comfortable and contented the kids seem while at Deep Root Center. I honestly take it for granted that they are relaxed and happy. And that they automatically feel ownership of this space and their individual needs. It is by design, after all. Nevertheless, I often forget how utterly extraordinary that really is.

We know that play, interest, and enjoyment boost authentic learning, not pressure (coercion), fear, and rote memorization. When kids (and teens) are free to navigate their environment by playing and following their curiosities, exploring and discovering the things that resonate with each of them personally, they are not only intimately connected to their learning as natural scientists, they keenly understand the world around them, and they are happy. (see Neil deGrasse Tyson's take on this idea here and here.)

Yet, somehow, we are still attached to archaic control-based methodologies as our default educational system  - which makes so many children (especially those of us who are neurodivergent) feel uncomfortable, out of sync, stuck, and ultimately unhappy.  

Enjoy these few highlights from both Centers this past week.

Yes, indeed, those moments - the ones when I feel discouraged, incompetent, and ineffective. As I have mentioned a few times, trust is one of the most important components of self-directed learning. I firmly believe every kid intuitively knows what they need and will seek it out on their own terms, and I will always support them to do just that. Nevertheless, there are times I forget to trust myself and this process.

I was having one of those moments last weekend. Wallowing - would sum up this particular funk nicely.

Then, out of the blue, a text arrived from a young adult who had been a member of DRC in our very early years. Her main point was to wish me a Happy Birthday - but in the process, she explained that she would not be in the positive place she is now if it had not been for DRC and wanted to thank me.

She is doing really well in a career that she loves. As we continued the text conversation, she said that because of her experience at DRC, she was confident in leaving college after a year and taking on an unconventional job that fit her skills, talents, and interests beautifully.  

Now that I recall, the most fascinating part of this story is that she came in sporadically because she had a full plate of responsibilities at home - helping to care for younger foster siblings. When she did come in, she socialized with a few other teens and did tons of art. She was not at all interested in academics or formal mentoring sessions. I never felt like I offered her much.

Looking back, I can say she needed us for one thing - to be that safe space where she felt completely comfortable following her interests and exploring the different versions of herself without judgment until she discovered her authentic self.

Next time I feel myself sliding into a 'moment' - I hope to recall that each of these kids needs something different from us and trust that they will find it - because we support them in this diverse, open, welcoming environment to do just that.

This DRC-CANTON kiddo has refused to join any cooking or baking sessions. But she adores eating everything we bake - especially our made-from-scratch biscuits.

I asked EH if she would help make biscuits for our traditional turkey meal because she loves them so much. I encouraged her by saying if she learned how she could make them whenever she wanted. She replied, "I don't know how to bake," and I said, "That is the point of the baking class." Then she mentioned that her Dad loves biscuits, too. I told her we could make some for him and put them aside. That is when she agreed to make them. They were pretty OK - for the first try.

Later that day, she was shaping the salt play dough other kids had made and asked if she could make Christmas cookies someday. I think she will be joining our baking crew more frequently!

Both Centers celebrated Thanksgiving this past week. On Tuesday, DRC-Canton enjoyed a full traditional feast made by the cooking and baking crews. And on Wednesday the DRC-East Crew put together and ate very cool charcuterie boards, played games, and sang karaoke with Kris R. - their special guest. 

It is once again the time of year that I hold onto my other ideas for Blog topics to update all of you on our progress over the previous 12 months and then humbly ask you to help us stick around for another year. Honestly, this annual appeal feels like it has higher stakes - mainly because the big grants we wrote didn’t get funded.

Nevertheless, I have faith that our dedication to the mission and the stories from the kids themselves will inspire folks to join us in keeping it alive for all our current families and those who will reach out for our help in the coming months and years.

The narratives we hear from parents daily keep us motivated - like the Mom of one of the kids who home schools on their own and consults with me, who called on Friday to say she wasn’t sure what to tell me to write in his quarterly report. Then she proceeded to say this 16-year-old kid (who had been nearly impossible to live with and was on track to be put on PINS by his social worker) has been volunteering to do things around the house, including decorating and organizing tasks for his extended family, is super pleasant to be around (according to her a major attitude adjustment), and he is working non-stop on an ATV to get it running. Additionally, his interest in RC cars has been renewed, and he is getting those operational again. All of this in the four weeks since he left school. Needless to say, I had plenty to write in his report.

Even though this kiddo does not come to Deep Root Center - he has my full support to follow his interests and explore the possibilities. That, right there, is our why!

Thank you for reading our Fall Funding Appeal, and supporting us in whatever way you can. Together we make a difference - one kid at a time!

Our short week - in photos...

We've had a week to decompress from our Halloween Jamboree adventures. Thanks again to everyone who made it a huge success.

And thank you to everyone who participated in our October 50/50 Raffle. The winning ticket was drawn by VG, our birthday kiddo, on Halloween. The winner came to the Center on Thursday to pick up the check for 727.50! She very graciously donated a portion of it back to us. This was our second 50/50 Raffle this year and both had considerable winnings. keep an eye out for our next raffle.

Our fundraising efforts are just beginning - stay-tuned for our annual funding appeal letter and other opportunities to support Deep Root Center.  As always, you can donate one-time or monthly, or sponsor a DRC Kid.

Both Centers will be closed this coming Thursday & Friday for Veteran's Day and a well deserved Staff Day of R&R.  Enjoy these photos from the past week.

Today's blog post is dedicated to thanking all the folks who put their time and energy into making the Halloween Jamboree a success.  

One of our DRC parents, Valerie Kirkpatrick, suggested the idea of an October jamboree. After conferring with her Dad, Ron Kirkpatrick, and her brother, Josh, they were ready to go. Ron got his band together for possibly the last time, and they played till the Canton-VFW was rocking! And then Josh played with his band. What a thrill to have these NoCo musical legends play to benefit Deep Root Center.  

Thank you, Ron, Valerie, & Josh Kirkpatrick, Carter Houk, George Dodds, Don Woodcock, Jay Seymour, and all the guys in Josh's band. We are deeply grateful for your music and your support.

The musical talent was augmented by DRC's own Chris Raymo, his son Christian, and long-time DRC member Avery Latimer, and then my husband, Mike Corse, who finished the evening with a few original tunes. Thank you to all of them for sharing their gifts with us.

I am deeply grateful to DRC parents and Board members for their many efforts – they heard the call and responded with purpose.

Special thanks to Susan Foster and Tiffanie Jacob, two of our parents and board members, for contributing items to the Silent Auction, 'womanning' the entrance table, and generally helping everything flow smoothly throughout the day. And gratitude to parent Rachel Colton for running our concession.

Thank you to our DRC Kiddos for baking items for the bake sale, their willingness to share their creative talents by putting their work out there for sale, for offering their face painting skill, and all of the lifting and carrying and general "grunt work" needed to put the entire gig together.

This would not be complete without mentioning our dedicated staff, the heart and soul of DRC, who don't get paid nearly enough for all they do. Karen Gagne, our beloved lead staff person, and mentor at DRC-East in Massena, spent hours connecting and engaging with people and businesses to acquire items for the Silent Auction. Because of her efforts, we had over 35 items - many of which were hotly contested. She also took all of these photos!

And Chris Raymo, our Canton Staff person who goes above and beyond every single day - quietly taking care of our kiddos - as well as the facility (broken doors, clogged drains, hanging a swing, and building a sandbox, among many other things).

Thanks again to the businesses and individuals who donated items to the silent auction. We are grateful for your support. The winners of all the "loot," if not already, will be contacted later today.

Thank you to the Canton VFW for allowing us to take over your space for the day. It was the perfect venue for our event.

And finally, thank you to everyone who came out, played in the kid zone, listened and danced, and contributed your hard-earned dollars to DRC. We rely on our community to stay alive, and you all came through beautifully.

The DRC October 50/50 Raffle will be drawn on Halloween. Tickets are still available - please get in touch if you would like to purchase one.

Our fundraising efforts will continue through the year - stay tuned for our next event. In the meantime, you can contribute through our Omella donation page, sponsor a DRC kid, or send a check to DRC, 48 Riverside Dr., Canton, NY 13617.  Thank you!

The adult role in a self-directed learning environment (as mentioned two weeks ago) is totally different from traditional or even progressive school settings. This is one of the main reasons I don't own (accept) the title "teacher." On the other hand, I know other colleagues in the Liberated Learner Network who happily embrace it - therefore, this is definitely a personal preference.

Just plain Maria is fine - but sometimes, they call me mom or, more recently, "grandma!" (What??? I mean - I am old enough to be their grandparent - but OUCH!)

By spending my days listening closely to their stories and (sometimes) non-verbal cues, I provide the resources they need to pursue their interests and aspirations. Together, we create a safe, often loud and chaotic, richly diverse environment filled with funny, serious, creative, curious, fiercely independent, playful, shy, and colorful personalities - all excited about learning.

I am a facilitator - a direct support person - the one adult they know for a fact will always have their back. They know I trust them unequivocally to make the choices best for them, and they trust me - to be their sounding board, guide, and champion.

For example, this year, we have one teen - who suffers from severe anxiety to the point that they are (mostly) mute and spend their days in the office away from the other kids - reading and petting Digby. In the beginning, this situation made me feel really uncomfortable. I felt ineffectual in my inability to help. Then, a few weeks ago, I received a note from their mom thanking me for providing that safe space for her child, and she didn't know what they would do if it wasn't for DRC.

Now, I engage with them while I work on projects and admin tasks by chatting occasionally without anticipating a response - simply letting them be without judgment or external expectations. It is what they need - at this moment.

On Friday, I asked this teen if they would like to draw Halloween scenes on some of the treat bags we are handing out at the Jamboree next week. At the end of the day, they handed me two bags with drawings worthy of framing and hanging in a gallery. Holy Moly! This kid is talented! They beamed when I told them just that.

On my way home, I stopped at the SLU Brewer Bookstore to purchase a sketchpad, a good quality drawing pencil, and a kneadable eraser - that I will present to them on Monday. I can't wait to see the beauty they produce with those simple tools.

Oftentimes, we have absolutely no idea what impact we have on the young people we spend our days with. I can only hope they see (understand) their potential as clearly as I do.

And I guess at the end of the day - that defines my role best - trusting, providing the spark of hope and optimism, and sitting back and watching the magic happen before my eyes.

Halloween Jamboree - Oct. 28th - 12 - 6 at the Canton VFW - Gouverneur St. 

Join DRC Staff, Board, & Families for amazing music featuring local legends: Ron, Josh & Valerie Kirkpatrick, George Dodds, Carter Houk, Don Woodcock, and Jay Seymour, as well as many musical friends including DRC's Chris Raymo and his son.

Listen to the music while your kids have a blast in the Halloween Fun Zone with arts & crafts, games, toys, face painting & treat bags for the first 75 kids to arrive. Costumes are welcome (for all ages)!

This is a fundraising event for Deep Root Center with donation at the door, food concession, bake sale, silent auction, craft fair featuring the DRC Etsy Shop Creators, 50/50 Raffle, & DRC Swag. Contact maria@deeprootcenter for more info.

There will be a jam session and opportunity for Karaoke between 6-9.

Please share this event widely!  Hope to see you there!

Photos from a busy week at both Centers!