My Big Trillium Lesson

This is a democratic school. There are many awesome things about Trillium, and there are many growing pains and challenges. Most problems will not be fixed for us, most challenges with not be solved by an administrator . If you or I see something we don’t like, it is on us to change it. I have not worked at a school that gives so much power—and responsibility-- to its staff and families. It can be overwhelming, because some thing you just want to be taken care of. But most experienced staff members at Trillium are dedicated to the democratic process, that answers come from the ground up. That means teachers and students and families are in change of creating the school they want to see. When there are problems, it is expected that solutions will come from the ground up, rather than the top down.

Those families that have contacted me with concerns and ideas—I have really tried to honor you by acting on them. I have learned change is slow and democracy is frustrating—but also that change is possible and happening. Keep letting me know about your experience, both positive and negative. I will do my best to represent you well. If you feel very strongly, I would love to work on a proposal with you.

Over this year I have see Trillium grow, settle, focus on things that have worked, and try new ideas when things haven't. It has been up and down at times. But the spring has really good energy, so I am excited about the last quarter of the year.