The Sudbury Model is an educational philosophy that emphasizes self-directed learning and democratic governance. At FWSS, it forms the foundation of our approach.

There really is no typical day at FWSS. School opens at 8 a.m. and we ask all students to arrive by 10 a.m. for our morning “Pop-in”, where we discuss events and activities for the day or any important news for the entire school community. 

At 1 p.m. on Wednesdays, we have a School Meeting where students and mentors vote on proposals regarding all aspects of running the school from budgets and hiring to school parties and field trips. Our Circles Committee meets as needed. 

The rest is up to the individual student. 

A younger student’s day may be lots of exuberant play, activities that promote prosocial skill development, and time for free exploration with self or peer-led classes and activities chosen by the students themselves.

Our middle and high school-aged students sometimes like to schedule activities and classes that meet each week, but they also enjoy the flexibility to pursue their own interests. 

Some of the activities and classes they have organized in the past include book clubs, theatre classes, various science activities, gardening, sewing and crochet clubs, Mythology Club, Dungeons & Dragons gaming, Yearbook Club, Gastro Geology, Supernatural Club, and Conlang Club, to name just a few. 

The schedule is always flexible and always changing. If a class is a flop, they take it off the schedule and try something different. If they think another project or activity is more important at that moment than a particular class, they will work on that instead.

There is no requirement that a student attend all or any of the activities provided, so students may spend days working on an art project, gaming communally with friends, or reading a really good book. We also take frequent field trips off campus or to local parks, so those days look different as well.

FWSS is a direct democracy.

Each student, staff member, and mentor has an equal vote in managing all aspects of the school’s daily operations. Students learn first-hand the principles, processes, and politics of democratic governance.

The community understands that individual needs and communal needs must be accounted for, and therefore we must do our best to create a tightly-knit and equitable community. 

We love family involvement! 

A crucial factor in determining a child’s experience of the school is the child’s family’s experience of the school.

Children of parents who work to understand our philosophy, communicate with staff, attend events, and connect with the community usually get the most out of our program. 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.

There are plenty of opportunities and ways to help FWSS while your child is a student!

Parents can donate services, sponsor a club, teach a workshop or class, act as chaperones on field trips, help raise funds, promote the school on social media… the possibilities are endless! 

Just send an email to info@fwsudbury.org and let us know how you want to help! 

Yes. Currently all school members are required to attend Pop-in at 10:15am and to participate in chore time at the end of the day. Elected Officers and Student Clerks must also attend School Meeting every Wednesday at 1 p.m.

The rest of the time is to spend as they choose. 

While students are free to do as they choose during the school day, there are certain activities which require safety protocols. 

The Clerk of any Committee can create certification procedures, and any student who wishes to engage in those activities must complete the certification process. FWSS currently has certifications requirements in place for the use of kitchen equipment, some art supplies, the 3D printer, and off-campus priviledges.

All certifications must be approved by the School Meeting.

FWSS values alternative forms of assessment. Instead of traditional exams, students showcase their learning through presentations, projects, and discussions, fostering a more holistic evaluation.

No. We discourage family and caregivers from making requests or agreements designed to influence what their child does at school.

Such agreements tend to undermine the value of a Sudbury education which is all about students developing the necessary skills to direct their own lives in the way that works best for them.

When a student walks into FWSS, they are in charge of their day. 

FWSS offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, community projects, and creative workshops. Students have the freedom to explore their passions beyond what is offered in traditional schools, because here they need no other approval than their own to create the opportunity they are looking for.

Some of the clubs and activities we have offered in the past include book clubs, theatre classes, astronomy, gardening, sewing and crochet clubs, Mythology Club, Dungeons & Dragons gaming, Yearbook Club, Gastro Geography, Supernatural Club, and Conlang Club, to name just a few.

Technology is integrated thoughtfully to enhance learning experiences. We leverage it as a tool for research, collaboration, and creative expression, ensuring a balanced and purposeful use.

FWSS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates individual differences and promotes a culture of respect and understanding.

We understand families come in all different configurations, and that people are all unique and have their own sense of self. At FWWS, we believe that each other’s humanity and basic rights are never up for debate.

The admission process begins with a scheduled tour of the school. The prospective student will then have a 5-day “trial week”, during which they will get to know the students and mentors and what the “day to day” of FWSS is like, and whether this model works for them.

At the end of the trial week, if the prospective student wishes to enroll, and FWWS and the family agree to move forward, the current student body will vote on the prospective student’s admission. We believe in a holistic approach to selecting students who align with our values.

FWSS enrolls students ages 7-16.

FWSS’s approach to learning offers a liberating and empowering educational experience for many students, but those who require structured support for learning differences or behavioral challenges will not find them here.  

While the school is welcoming and inclusive of neurodiverse students, we are unable to offer the specialized support that some students require for their learning and behavioral needs. We are not a therapeutic school, therefore we do not provide any specialized services for students with special needs (i.e. behavior plans, ARDs, 504 meetings, OT, PT, etc.). We do not have dedicated student aids on staff. If your child needs specific services or counseling, FWSS isn’t equipped to provide those services. 

For families considering Fort Worth Sudbury School, it’s crucial to assess whether the self-directed model aligns with their child’s needs and learning style. During the interview process, we ask prospective families to engage in thorough discussions with the school so we may understand your child’s needs in order to explore whether the FWSS environment is the right fit for their educational journey.

No. Students are required to bring their own lunch every day, along with a bottle of water or something to drink.

However, we have a commercial kitchen and students who desire can obtain certification to use the stove, microwave, and ovens. 

We serve a communal snack at 1 pm each day. 

There are numerous special occasions during the school year where the entire school community will come together for a meal and a good time, such as our annual Friendsgiving and holiday party. 

 Transportation options vary, and we work with families to find suitable solutions. Carpooling and community coordination are encouraged to make commuting convenient for everyone.