Joys of Self-Determined Learning

Joys of Self-Determined Learning

Here’s a fun new book: Joys of Self-Determined Learning: A Collection of Essays, edited by Carlo Ricci and Gina Riley. Spoiler Alert: I have an essay included, entitled “Expanding the Movement: Attracting More People to Self-Directed Learning.” It’s an honor to have a...
Happiness

Happiness

It’s a new year at North Star, and what I see is Happiness. The best way for me to convey the state of North Star is to briefly introduce you to three of my advisees: Ash, Kai, and Colin. The photos pretty much do the work here! (Thank you to staff member Kim...
Student Loan Forgiveness

Student Loan Forgiveness

I’m very happy for the people receiving up to $20,000 in student loan forgiveness due to President Biden’s recent announcement. I know this reduction will make a huge difference in their lives. At the same time, I worry that student loan forgiveness sidesteps the real...
Opening Ceremonies

Opening Ceremonies

On Tuesday, September 6 North Star held its Opening Ceremonies! We are back! Here is a reasonably solid transcript of my Welcoming Message. — Welcome! Year 27! Year 8 in this building! I especially want to welcome our new families and new staff members. We have...
Essential Experiences

Essential Experiences

Here’s a handy list for when you are bored: fifty “Essential Experiences” to consider. This list, compiled by Chris Balme, is targeted at middle schoolers, though I think it would work for people of all ages. I can see retirees going down this list, and middle-aged...