This is Boss Lady, the proprietor of our School Store; she shops, she stocks, she employs, and she does it all with impressive poise, even if it is a complex and difficult task: “it’s a lot to keep up with,” she says, “because those teriyaki bowls go so fast.” Keep ‘em coming, Boss, and maybe stock some brownies sometime soon, and *thank you*. Boss Lady does a lot of sports and theater at school, and she’s very involved in running the place too; she is a frequent participant in our democratic processess, and a member of many committees. Boss Lady left HVSS for a year to try traditional schooling, but came back. She says, “I’m glad I went, but I reall wanted to have my voice back, to be able to choose my own path and also I wanted the JC(Judicial Committee) system back.” She added, “HVSS is a very creative place, full of creativity.” Very creative statement, Boss Lady, thanks for modeling! She also noted, “It’s also full of laughter, especially from me,” and her friend confirms, “yeah, I’ll breathe just slightly loudly and then make eye contact with Boss Lady and she bursts out laughing.” Boss Lady is a great friend to many of our younger students, and goes out of her way to be available when they want to hang. She is kind and courageous, tough and tender; one of those rare, balanced people who can just as easily be a rock, or move like water; you’d want here there in a crisis, or at your birthday party. Or anytime. Everytime. So thanks for being such a boss, Boss Lady; don’t forget those brownies!
Parent Involvement
Parents’ experience of the school is a crucial factor in determining their childrens’ experience of the school. Children of parents who work hard to understand our philosophy, communicate with staff, attend events, and connect with the community usually get the most out of our program.
Parents typically grow alongside their children as the family matures together within our bold, challenging, and trusting philosophy. Many parents find themselves doing things they hadn’t before enrolling their children in our school, like starting a business, taking up a new hobby, or dedicating themselves to art. Parents who remain open, think critically, and grapple honestly with questions and concerns about the program and their children’s education provide the best support for children at our school.
We depend on parents to participate on our Fundraising and Financial Aid Committees, as well as in our Assembly, our largest democratic body, which ratifies changes to our bylaws. Many parents volunteer their expertise, and there are always at least a couple who are regularly coming in to offer instruction. Parents are also needed to chaperone field trips, and most of our substitute staff are parents too.
Sending your children to a self-directed democratic school is a bold choice, and people will question it. Many parents find it helpful to attend our events and make connections with the community, and especially with other parents.