Challenges and Opportunities of Adolescence in Democratic Schools

This session looks at how democratic schools talk with families. We will explore how to explain that students make their own decisions, handle parents’ expectations and efforts to undesirably interfere, build trust, and involve families in learning without taking control from the student. We will also cover sharing learning challenges, safety and risk, cultural differences, and conflicts in the school community. Through examples and discussion, participants will get practical ideas for clear, honest, and respectful communication that supports both students and families while keeping democratic school values.