The Radical School Where Students Led the Charge

In the 1970s, The Group School in Cambridge flipped the conventional education model on its head. Founded by Sean Tevlin, this unique establishment aimed to empower students, especially those labeled as“struggling.”With its radical ethos, it replaced traditional authority with consensus-based decision-making, allowing students to voice their opinions and take part in their own education journey. That’s right—over 600 teenagers learned to shine, not despite their challenges but because they were treated with respect and dignity.

Integral to The Group School’s success was the extraordinary collaboration with MIT professors, who provided tutoring and mentorship to local kids. The school’s emphasis on real partnership turned struggling learners into aspiring achievers, showing that when students feel heard, they don’t just want more—they demand it! Those lessons remain relevant today as educators explore how to better engage and uplift disconnected students. Imagine a world where schools prioritize dignity and respect—sounds like a dream, right? Let’s hope it becomes a reality soon!