This is Mr. Bernstein, a fast-talking, self-advocating tornado of ideas and demands. The phrase, “Idea Man,” doesn’t capture the sheer creative output Mr. Bernstein gifts the world each day; “Idea Volcano” might be a good start. Mr. Bernstein’s favorite activities at school are “business, business, and more business.” He is the founder and CEO of Starship Studios, a fledgling but extraordinarily ambitious company currently working on its first project, producing the pilot episode of an anime featuring soul-snatching, ice-carrot farming, The Eternal Nation, The Dark Continent, and plenty of Demon Blood. Starship Studios plans to eventually develop food businesses and get into the coffee game. Mr. Bernstein would like you to announce that he is hiring, accepting applications of all talent; you can reach him via his secretary by emailing your resume to office@zenademocraticschool.org.
Mr. Bernstein says he likes being at Hudson Valley Sudbury School “because there are many potential employees to interview and hire.” He says he has found the caliber of employee he is able to hire here is “very high.” When I asked if he would offer any business tips to the public, he said, “No. I don’t give free advice. In fact, if you run a business, I want to drive your business away, or shut it down, or purchase it…I will do anything to realize my dream.” Just a taste of Mr. Bernstein’s flavor. He wants everyone to know he is 8, btw, and that another thing he really likes about the school is that he met his best friend here.
Mr. Bernstein would also like people to know that he does not appreciate the school’s Judicial Committee. He says, “they waste my time and they make people serve on their committee involuntarily.”
Mr. Bernstein, you are a force to be reckoned with. Thank you for reminding us that you are 8, because at times it seems you are a 60 yo Russian business mogul with 23 bank accounts. Your ingenuity is always impressive; your friendships are sweet. We are happy to have you among us, and glad you find us to be decent employees. Love ya, boss.
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.