Barefoot Philosophy | Self-Directed Learning for Gifted Students

Student pursuing self-directed learning through passion-based projects

We Are A Self-Directed School

We reject the notion that young people need to learn a standard set of skills and subjects by a certain time.

We believe that curiosity is the natural engine of learning, that students learn best when they're learning something interesting, and that the best way to find something interesting is to find it yourself.

Students at Barefoot spend the majority of their time doing projects. Our role is to support students as they explore a huge variety of content areas, modes of communication, and skills.

Mastery and Competency

We believe that students learn best when they can focus on truly understanding a concept, not just moving on because the schedule says so. Mastery allows students to go as deep as they need, revisiting ideas until they make sense and connect to other knowledge.

Because of this, students progress by demonstrating understanding and skill in meaningful ways rather than by completing a set number of lessons or tests. This allows learning to be personal, connected, and long-lasting.

High school student learning just-in-time through project-based discovery

Just in Time, Not Just in Case

We believe that learning happens best when you need to learn something. Learning a lot of content abstractly, with no real application, leads to boredom and confusion about the "point". However, learning content to support a goal creates meaningful connections, excitement and drive to understand.

Because of this, our students do projects, discover gaps in their knowledge or understanding, and close those gaps through research and discovery.

Students collaborating in learning community through group projects and peer mentoring

We Are A Learning Community

We believe that learning happens best together. Students work in groups to do projects, engage in group discussion during Core Curriculum, and create community together.

Through collaborative learning, students learn higher-level thinking, communication, management, responsibility, and help each other address knowledge gaps, misconceptions and stagnant ideas.

Student participating in democratic school decision-making and collaborative learning

We Are A Democratic School

We believe that our students are inherently smart, sensible and worth listening to.

Students have freedom to learn what they want, on their schedule. Even during scheduled class time, students have the opportunity to propose content and structures, even if they diverge from the plan.

We believe that freedom is essential to learning. When students have real choices, they learn to take real responsibility for their time, their projects, and their growth.

Teenager engaging in critical thinking and questioning through project-based learning

Critical & Creative Thinking

We believe that education should not train students to accept the world as it is, but to question, challenge, and reimagine it.

We believe that students learn best when they are empowered to ask big questions: Why is this the way it is? Who benefits? What could be different?

Because of this, we encourage critical thinking, social imagination, and the courage to act on big ideas.

High school student developing whole person skills including emotional intelligence and creativity

The Whole Person

We believe that education is not just about academics, but about developing the whole person.

We believe that emotional intelligence, creativity, self-knowledge, and resilience are just as important as math or writing.

We value reflection, mindfulness, play, and personal expression as essential parts of learning.

Student learning beyond classroom walls through real-world experiences and community engagement

Learning Without Walls

We believe that learning doesn't just happen in classrooms. Learning happens everywhere. Students grow when they step into the real world

Because of this, we encourage students to seek experiences beyond school. Whether it's shadowing a professional, organizing a neighborhood project, joining a debate team, or simply exploring a new hobby, every encounter adds richness to their education and helps them connect learning to life.

Gifted and twice-exceptional student thriving in personalized learning environment

Gifted, Profoundly Gifted, and 2e Learners

We believe that advanced learners thrive when given freedom to pursue their passions at depth and speed, while also receiving support where they need it most. Our students are encouraged to stretch their abilities, explore new domains, and take on ambitious projects without arbitrary limits.

Our Philosophy