What is it about?
This article shares the real story of what it takes to start a school from nothing — and why it matters. Dr. Stuart Grauer explores the challenges and joys of creating (and sustaining) a school that is deeply connected to students, community, and nature. Drawing from personal experience, he explains how a founder’s vision, mentors, and diverse influences can shape a new kind of education: one that nurtures freedom, self-direction, and relationships rather than rigid rules. The piece offers insight for educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how small schools can flourish outside conventional systems, while still honoring universal values and preparing students to thrive.
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Photo by Himesh Kumar Behera on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Small, student-centered schools are thriving but remain misunderstood. This piece shows how founders can innovate and build schools for a changing world.
Perspectives
I had maybe $25 and no plan when I set out. 50 years later, I know this: small schools thrive when we engage kids, community, and nature. Optimism and mentors make the impossible possible. I have been through every imaginable phase of small school development and have a passion to share what I know with energetic leaders.
STUART GRAUER
The Grauer School
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Founding a School, December 2025, De Gruyter,
DOI: 10.1163/9789004736658_023.
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