“Is this a dream?”

adminUncategorized

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My 11 year old (5th grade) son started Embark about a month and a half ago. Last night, for the first time in 2 years, on his own, he picked up a pen and a notebook and wrote something. This is after massive amounts of stress around writing and spelling stemming from well-intentioned support from an occupational therapist and teachers … Read More

Learning and Practicing Non-Violent Communication at Embark

Catina SweedyUncategorized

At Embark Center for Self-Directed Education, one of our methods of conflict resolution is Nonviolent Communication. NVC is a multistep process focusing on observations, feelings, needs, and requests. We approach conflict resolution with curiosity, not blame or judgment, and we work to create space for deep listening, compassion, and choice. Feelings are communications, specifically leading us to reflect on our … Read More

Saving My Son

Nicole LeeUncategorized

3 years ago I made the decision to save my son. My son was diagnosed with ADD/ADHD at age 5, he was then diagnosed with Autism at age 10. We had worked withthe public school system, to no avail on behavior goals. His ability to work at or above grade level, but not at the pace of the classes, proved … Read More

Corona Gap Year

Catina SweedyAbout Self-Directed Learning, Uncategorized

young woman sitting on leaf covered ground laughing and playing with a white hound rescue dog in a blue harness

With all of the uncertainty, angst, frustration, and fear facing students this fall, I would like to propose a radical solution: take a corona gap year. I know; it sounds crazy, but bear with me. It’s not as far out there as you think. If you (or your child) are between the ages of four and thirteen this post is … Read More

New to Self-Directed Education?

Catina SweedyUncategorized

Here are some resources! We know not everyone is familiar with the concepts and philosophies that form the foundation for this type of education. Here are some resources about self-directed learning to help you get started on the journey! You can also check out our guiding principles on our website! YouTube Videos: Sir Ken Robinson: Changing Education Paradigms Ken Danford: … Read More

Virtual Embark: Self-Directed Learning during a Global Pandemic

Catina SweedyUncategorized

We are happy to report that despite COVID-19, Embark Center for Self-Directed Education is still up and running. We have been able to adapt many of our classes for elearning, continue mentor meetings and tutoring, and create community through a private social media app. We also have been pleasantly surprised that online learning has offered new opportunities to us that … Read More

Welcome to the Wild Wonderful World of Homeschooling!

adminUncategorized

Hello families with kids home from school! Welcome to the wild and wonderful world of homeschooling! With over ten years of experience homeschooling my two kids, two years working at Embark Center for Self-Directed Education, and over twenty teaching privately and part time in public school, here are some tips and ideas to keep you and your child (at least … Read More

A Secret Club

Grace ShafferUncategorized

Hey, it’s Grace. I am a member of Embark and I’m going to give you a little bit of a view. I went to public school up until ninth grade and then switched to a private school for a bit. So I got a view on private and public school. Public school was never a great fit for me and … Read More