Highland Free School

Highland Free School, located in the historic Sam Hughes neighborhood of Tucson, Arizona, is a unique, long-standing private educational institution that operates on the principles of democratic education. Founded in the late 1960s, the school serves children from preschool through middle school with a philosophy centered on student autonomy, self-directed learning, and the importance of community. Unlike traditional academic environments, Highland emphasizes a low student-to-teacher ratio and a non-coercive approach, encouraging students to take personal responsibility for their educational journey rather than following a rigid, test-driven curriculum.

The school is defined by its egalitarian structure, where decisions are often made collectively through weekly school meetings that give students and staff equal voices in the management of the community. The curriculum is flexible and integrated, often focusing on project-based learning, social-emotional development, and meaningful engagement with the surrounding Tucson community. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and individual freedom, Highland Free School aims to cultivate lifelong learners who are confident, self-motivated, and prepared to participate actively in a democratic society.