Becoming a FL is as simple as saying, “I am a Free Learner”. Done. However, as the bold early adopters in the movement take the initial steps to declare their decision, some meaningful conversation and a plan might be helpful.
The first step could be to have a family or peer discussion to clarify your approach to becoming a Free Learner. Although your parents might start this conversation, we think it is important to remember that this is about you, the student, making the decision; you are taking responsibility for your own education. But you are not in this alone. Family, friends, teachers, internet sites, area experts are all available to help and support you. Your job is to ask for that help when you want it and to decline help when you don’t want it.
Having your parents support is very important. Being able to get people on board with your ideas is a vital life skill; what better place to practice that skill than here! If you think this will be a challenge, we suggest you do your research and complete the steps below so that you have a great package to present to your parents. Another helpful resource is the amazing Leave School audio book app by Jim Flannery.
The first step could be to have a family or peer discussion to clarify your approach to becoming a Free Learner. Although your parents might start this conversation, we think it is important to remember that this is about you, the student, making the decision; you are taking responsibility for your own education. But you are not in this alone. Family, friends, teachers, internet sites, area experts are all available to help and support you. Your job is to ask for that help when you want it and to decline help when you don’t want it.
Having your parents support is very important. Being able to get people on board with your ideas is a vital life skill; what better place to practice that skill than here! If you think this will be a challenge, we suggest you do your research and complete the steps below so that you have a great package to present to your parents. Another helpful resource is the amazing Leave School audio book app by Jim Flannery.
Steps to designating yourself FL
1. Think about what being a FL means to you
2. Register as a FL
3. Complete your Self-Directed IEP (learner and parent-led Individual Education Plan)
4. Create a plan for gaining access to school facilities you would like to use
5. Meet and communicate your FL requirements with the school
What you might want to bring to the meeting:
- Signed copy of the Resolution to be a Free Learner (printable copy)
- Your completed Self-Directed IEP
- Your completed “what does being an FL mean to me” (optional)
- Completed Permission Forms
6. Take responsibility for your education
“Education is the child’s responsibility; when children know they are responsible for their education they take the responsibility, when they are led to believe someone else is responsible for their education, and all they have to do is do what they are told, they tend to do that in a minimal way.” - Peter Gray
