Has school destroyed your creativity and self-confidence? I'm working on a book called Recovering From School, to help you heal the damage caused. Join the Patreon or Newsletter to be notified about updates. Paid Patreon members will get early draft previews, as well as a free digital copy when it's done.

What does it mean if you hate school?

Let's face it, school can feel like a suffocating prison for those of us who crave freedom. It's like being strapped into a chair for hours on end, forced to conform to someone else's rules and standards. No wonder so many of us despise it.

Kids hate school because kids love freedom. We thrive on exploration, creativity, and autonomy. But what does school offer in return? Endless rules, rigid schedules, and mind-numbing conformity.

John Taylor Gatto, a former New York City teacher and author, once famously said that the modern schooling system was designed to produce obedient workers, not independent thinkers. And boy, does it show. From the moment we step into those fluorescent-lit hallways, we're taught to follow orders, regurgitate information, and never question authority.

But what happens when you strip someone of their freedom? Depression sets in. It's no surprise that so many of us feel trapped, anxious, and utterly hopeless within the confines of school. We're told to sit still, be quiet, and memorize facts that we'll likely never use again. Is it any wonder that our spirits are crushed?

Laurie A. Couture, a renowned advocate for alternative education, argues that parents should support their children's natural desire for freedom and autonomy. Instead of forcing them into the one-size-fits-all mold of traditional schooling, she encourages parents to explore alternative options that better align with their child's needs and interests.

So, what are some alternatives to school? Well, there's homeschooling, where you can tailor your education to fit your unique learning style. There's unschooling, where you're free to pursue your passions and interests without the constraints of a traditional curriculum. And then there's alternative schools, like Sudbury or Montessori, that prioritize self-directed learning and individual growth.

At the end of the day, hating school doesn't make you lazy or incompetent. It just means you're craving the freedom to learn and grow on your own terms. And that's nothing to be ashamed of. So hang in there, fellow school-haters. Your freedom awaits.

Posted in: Blog on March 2, 2024 @ 8:02 PM

If you like what we're doing here, you can become a Patron and sign up for our newsletter!