Creativity. Exploration. Self-Directed Education.
At Heartwood, we offer a flexible space for learning through free play, deliberate skill-building, and socialization. Our students personalize their experience by making choices every day. We adapt the space together using co-design practices. We have a rescue cat. We encourage family engagement. We welcome projects and big questions, offering support to pursue both. We also welcome silliness and surprises. We encourage folks of all ages to come as they are, contribute as they can, and wonder at what’s possible.
The school year runs August through May, Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 3 pm.
We’re a registered 501c3 nonprofit organization, located in Clarkston, GA.
We have rolling admissions and are currently accepting applications for students 7 - 16 from the metro Atlanta area.
There are many ways that people practice self-directed education. You can learn more about how we do it on our FAQ page.
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Meaningful learning happens when people are engaged in activities they care about. Our job is to provide the space and support that allows them to flourish. Our approach is rooted in:
Self-Direction: Students choose how to spend their time and what to explore.
Abundant Play: Free play lets us practice essential skills… and feel joy!
Project-Based Learning: We offer space and support for student-initiated projects.
Democratic Practice: Co-planning happens collaboratively through community meetings.
Mixed-Age Collaboration: Young people learn from and with each other.
Real Responsibility: Everyone is expected to contribute to building our weekly schedule, resolving conflicts, caretaking our space, and creating an inspiring culture in our space.
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Our educational philosophy is informed by research and practice from leaders in self-directed education:
Dr. Peter Gray's research on how children learn through play
Dr. Alison Gopnik's work on childhood development and learning
carla bergman's writing on radical learning communities
When given freedom within appropriate boundaries, children develop intrinsic motivation, creative problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence that serves them throughout life.
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Our facilitators are not traditional teachers. They are skilled guides who:
Create a physically and emotionally safe environment
Model curiosity and lifelong learning
Support children in developing tools for collaboration
Help students reflect on their growth
Connect students with resources and opportunities
