Why?

Many are curious why I founded Deep Root Center. When the question arises I never have to think very hard before answering. DRC and our sister organizations exist for all of those kids who need an educational model that says, “you are a unique individual with unique interests, a unique learning style, and a unique way of looking at the world.” We are here for all of the youth who have heard, in one form or another, “we can not meet your needs here.” Which really means, “we are not willing to spend the time to get to know you as an individual and you are not worth our time.”

I am passionate about creating a space where kids are empowered to design their own education based upon their specific interests and desires, a space with mentors that offer compassionate understanding of their particular strengths and challenges, a space that is open and free of judgment, and a space that is comfortable and safe for everyone.

Deep Root Center, along with eight other Centers in the US and Canada, is part of the Liberated Learners network and follows the seven basic principles that were originated by North Star in Hadley, MA. These principles act as DRC's philosophy. They are the building blocks of self-directed learning and inform everything we do.

The one that speaks the loudest to me is number four: how people behave under one set of circumstances does not predict how they will behave under a very different set of circumstances.

In other words, if a student is acting out, getting bad grades, or is simply not thriving in a particular educational setting, it does not mean they are doomed to academic failure. It only means they are not in the correct environment. The inability to recognize and nurture the individual is, I believe, at the root of most of these academic mismatches. When an institution is inflexible and tied to particular standards and regulations, they will naturally be unable to provide for everyone who comes through their doors.

I work tirelessly and joyously to ensure that every youth who wants to leave school to follow their passion is able to do so. I thrive in a creative atmosphere that provides a compassionate ear, problem solving opportunities, time for personal research and introspection, and hands on, inventive, and imaginative projects for all who enter.

At Deep Root Center we pride ourselves on listening deeply to all you have to say and on meeting your individual needs. That, quite simply, is why we are here.

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