Frequently Asked Questions

What curriculum does the center use?

We don’t mandate a set, standardized curriculum. We do make use of various curricula depending on member interest (e.g. OER Project’s “Big History” curriculum, Next Generation Science Standards or Khan Academy resources). In addition to content-based curriculum, we encourage members to create schedules that balance intellectual pursuits with movement, hands-on work, community service and healthy, meaningful relationships.

How do kids learn if there is no curriculum?

Learning happens everywhere. Humans have evolved to learn from experience, by grappling with and solving real-world problems. There is no shortage of studies showing that hands-on, experiential learning creates deeper, longer-lasting connections. When youth are allowed to build on their passions and interests, learning comes alive in a way that is rarely accessible in a conventional classroom. Although we prioritize experiential learning, we also recognize the value of more conventional instruction, which is available through classes at the center, tutoring, auditing classes at the High School or through online college courses. 

If everything is optional, how can I be sure my child will learn​​ _______ ?

You can never be sure that your child will learn a given standard or skill. Ultimately, it will be up to them what they learn. We do know that facts learned by force in the classroom are generally forgotten within a year, whereas knowledge obtained through meaningful engagement with the world can last a lifetime. Ultimately we will remember what we love, and self-directed learning gives youth the opportunity to fall in love with life again.

What are some things that kids might be doing during the day?

Taking a history class, rowing on the harbor, studying geology on the beach, creating a podcast, playing chess, acting in a play, working with a tutor on calculus, volunteering at the soup kitchen, hanging out with friends, taking a college course online, starting a small business, working at a part-time job, painting, writing a short story, cooking lunch, working in a garden, tracking animals on the rail trail, measuring water quality on the Passy, doing trail work, dancing at the dance studio, attending a lecture at the library, going to track practice, making an animation or going for a walk in the woods. 

Isn’t it important to do things you hate sometimes? What about rigor?

Of course it’s important to do difficult things, but ideally we do them because we have a good reason to, not just because someone tells us to. Youth who are learning in a self-directed context create rich, meaningful lives which inevitably involve interests and commitments that require hard work, sacrifice and grit. Rigor is essentially meaningless without intrinsic motivation–if a plant is growing in poor soil, no amount of staking and pruning will convince it to grow. 

Do you accept/support neurodivergent youth or youth with special learning needs?

For many neurodivergent youth, self-directed learning allows for a more flexible, individualized learning environment where learning differences become assets rather than impediments. Because each member receives individual mentorship and creates a personalized schedule, they are able to build on their strengths and receive support where it’s most needed. When young people are given greater autonomy, they have a knack for seeking out and engaging with opportunities that match their developmental needs. 

In some cases, youth may be better served by a more structured environment or at a program with more specialized support. We are happy to schedule a meeting to talk more about whether the Dory Learning Center is right for you. 

Will I get a High School diploma?

We don’t offer a high school diploma. It turns out that pretty much anything you can do with a diploma, you can do without one: go to college, learn a trade, apply for a job or start a business. We do help youth create multimedia portfolios and resumés, and provide support transitioning to college, work or other opportunities when the time comes. 

Students who wish to earn a Certificate of High School Equivalency can study for the HiSET or GED exam with support from mentors.

Can I still get into college?

If you want to, YES! In fact, self-directed learners often have an easier time transitioning to higher learning because they have developed skills like time management, interdisciplinary thinking and have a strong sense of who they are and what they want to do. Young people at self-directed learning centers are regularly accepted to top colleges and universities. You will also have the opportunity to begin taking college-level classes while at the Dory Learning Center, working towards an associates or four-year degree before you make the leap to college. 

Aren’t there state requirements that kids go to school?

Dory Learning Center members register with the state as homeschoolers. In Maine, homeschoolers complete a yearly review with a certified teacher. We organize a review to help families meet this requirement and are happy to support families with understanding and complying with homeschool law. It’s easy!

What about sports and other extracurriculars?

Dory Learning Center members who live within the district have access to sports, theater and other extracurriculars at the Middle and High Schools. Dory members can also audit classes at the High School or at the Waldo County Technical Center. Members must fulfill state vaccination requirements to audit classes.