The mission of IDEA, the Institute for Democratic Education in America, is to catalyze democratic educational change by building credibility and supporting effective organizing for education grounded in democratic values.

IDEA envisions an educational system and education practice based on respect for human rights and our common democratic 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 and caring 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 and unite educational practice with our democratic values. 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.

Our three-tiered strategy to achieve educational change is:

Frame the national dialogue about democratic education
Build a collaborative network that spans generations and professional affiliations
Catalyze sustainable action at the local, regional, and national levels

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!

- The Founding Team of IDEA