Our Begining

 Dear Friends,


My journey with Room to Grow Explorers began with a simple observation: my daughters longed for a stronger sense of community, a desire mirrored by my own yearning for a more values-aligned educational approach. This realization led me to explore alternative educational philosophies and communities.

In 2023, I immersed myself in the Agile Learning Community, spending countless hours listening to interviews with founders from around the globe. A particularly impactful talk by Dr. Sujata on establishing a tuition-free program resonated deeply, igniting my determination to create a similar model. Further enriching my understanding were the writings of the Alliance for Self-Directed Education, Peter Gray's insightful articles, and Aquila Richards's thought-provoking books. The Living Joyfully online community also provided invaluable support and shaped my evolving perspective.

However, the seeds of Room to Grow Explorers were sown much earlier, in 2022, during my time as a participating parent at Room to Grow Preschool. This experience fundamentally shifted my understanding of childhood. Prior to this, my own upbringing had instilled a belief in the inherent incompleteness of children and the necessity of molding them to fit societal expectations. At Room to Grow, I encountered a radically different paradigm: children are not incomplete beings needing to be shaped, but rather, seeds brimming with potential. My role as a caregiver transitioned from teacher to facilitator, creating an environment where children could learn and flourish. This meant trusting their innate capabilities, letting go of my preconceived expectations and judgments, and confronting my own anxieties and past experiences. I realized that my "school wounds" were mine to process, not to inflict upon my children. I found solace and support in connecting with other adults navigating similar challenges.

This profound shift transformed my home from a rigid, authoritarian environment into a more collaborative sociocracy where everyone’s needs, values, and interests are respected and nurtured. Consent and mutual trust form the bedrock of our family relationships.

In January 2024, I connected with Amanda, another mother whose child attended Room to Grow Preschool, and together we embarked on the adventure of creating Room to Grow Explorers. Amanda became my co-founder, instrumental in bringing other families on board. By March, we had established our corporation, and by April, we secured 501(c)(3) non-profit status. By May, we had five enrolled families and launched our three-day-a-week, tuition-free program, run entirely by volunteer mothers. Throughout this process, Karen, the founder of Room to Grow Preschool, served as an invaluable mentor and supporter, providing us with affordable space and even covering the costs of a dedicated "RTG teacher."

Our inaugural year, spanning from September 11th to May 27th, culminated in a joyful talent show, with nine families and sixteen children aged 6-13 participating. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us on this remarkable journey.

As we embark on our second year, we eagerly anticipate the unfolding possibilities. The learning continues, for me and for all of us involved. There is still so much to discover.

Sincerely,

Norma Quiroga

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