Contact IDEA

IDEA, Institute for Democratic Education in America, is an emerging national nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure that all young people can participate meaningfully in their education and gain the tools to build a just, democratic, and sustainable world.

IDEA envisions an educational system based on respect for human rights and values of freedom and responsibility, participation and collaboration, and equity and justice.

Founded by educators from across the country, IDEA is committed to bridging the disconnect between our democratic values and the way we educate and treat young people. This disconnect is striking, as the learning experience today is largely determined by a standardized, high-stakes, and de-personalized approach that alienates young people from learning and drives gifted teachers out of the profession.

In contrast, democratic education starts from the premise that every young person is unique, and that all young people ought to have the opportunity to live and learn in an environment that practices meaningful participation, that supports self-initiative in learning, and that is directed towards greater equality and social justice.

We created IDEA to tap into and build on the energy of people around the nation who support democratic education. We believe that only by working together strategically will we have the chance to influence the national dialogue about education advance learning that matters.

The work of IDEA is further guided by our commitment to remain humble and open in our dialogue with others, to be full of genuine regard for all people, to think big and "speak truth to power with love" (West, 1993), and to infuse our work with a spirit of humor, fun, and positivity.

What does IDEA do?

Visit our Facebook page or to connect right away with people around the country and in your area who share your frustrations and hopes and want to work toward change.

IDEA curates resources on democratic education and shares them with the public. We post the latest news about democratic education on our Facebook page and news feed. Coming soon is a searchable resource database for materials related to democratic education.

IDEA identifies talented community leaders and supports them to begin fueling positive change in education at local and regional levels. If you're interested in applying to be a paid regional organizer, read our request for proposals.

Drawing on its diverse international network of education and business professionals, IDEA advises schools and organizations on how to build on what's already working and expand it. We also give workshops and talks around the country.

IDEA is creating ways for YOU (young people, teachers, parents, youth workers, community members, policy-makers, and others in all sectors of society) to join the conversation, gain valuable skills and resources, and create real changes in your schools and communities.

Most especially, we have created IDEA because we know, as you do, that settings where young people can live and learn in an empowering democratic environment may be the most essential way in which to build a more just, vibrant, and sustainable society.

Please join us!