There is not one answer, nor should there be because our world and communities are constantly evolving and so must our understanding of what it means to teach and learn in ways that equip every human being to participate fully in a healthy democracy. The goal of democratic education is to empower young people to be autonomous, responsible members of their community and the larger world.

Democratic Education is rooted in meaningful challenge to the learner, while also being responsive and relevant to the larger community. It celebrates the adventure of learning, while cultivating personal and social responsibility. It helps individuals and communities find their voices.

A democracy is a system in which the people have power and are able to exercise it. Democratic education incorporates the principles of a healthy democracy: students have an active role in shaping their own learning, rather than being passive recipients of knowledge. They are participants and citizens, each with unique gifts, not empty vessels or products on an assembly line.