Independence
Creating leaders

Involvement
The day at Sudbury Valley

Learning
Experiencing life

Confidence
Educating yourself

Governance
A democratic community

Admissions
Entering Sudbury Valley

Transitions
Leaving Sudbury Valley

Alumni Say…

FAQ

Experiencing Life

ne of the things most adults notice first about Sudbury Valley is the ease of communication. People, no matter what their age, treat each other with easy respect. There is a comfortable air of self-confidence, the confidence typical of individuals pursuing the goals they set for themselves. Things are almost never quiet, and the atmosphere is electric with enthusiasm, but not chaotic or frenetic. Visitors speak of feeling a certain order, even though it is clearly a place full of intense activity.

The students at Sudbury Valley are doing what they want, but they are not necessarily choosing what comes easily. A closer look reveals that they are always challenging themselves; that they are acutely aware of their own weaknesses and strengths, and likely to be working hardest on their weaknesses. Along with their ebullient good spirits, there is an underlying seriousness -- even the six-year-olds know that they, and only they, are responsible for their education. They have been given the gift of tremendous trust, and they understand that this gift is as big a responsibility as it is a delight. They are acutely aware that it is very unusual for young people to be given this much freedom or this much responsibility.

Growing up shouldering this responsibility gives them confidence in their own abilities -- they get a "track record". Self-motivation is never a question; that's all there is.
Although the school has no curriculum, the reality is that most students develop many valuable tools that will be useful to them as adults. They learn how to concentrate. They learn to ponder ethical questions. They learn to ask for what they want, and strive to get it. They learn how to try something and relish success, and they learn how to try something and fail at it -- and try again.

They learn to know themselves.

Beyond the description lies the reality of the school: a place where freedom is cherished, where mutual respect is the norm, where children and adults are comfortable with each other, where learning is integrated into life. Our bright, open, lively students are the best evidence of the school's success.