About Us

We are a democratic school.
- ALPHA was founded by parents in 1972 as part of the free school movement.
- Social/emotional learning, democratic decision-making, and social justice are foundations of our program
- Kids share leadership with adults - they have weekly all-school meetings to discuss issues and agree on rules.
- The school is governed by a parent/staff meeting that operates by consensus.

We facilitate self-directed learning in a collaborative environment.
- Students have considerable freedom to choose what, how and when they learn, so they can take responsibility for their own learning.
- We create a space where kids can take risks, make mistakes and build resilience.
- Younger kids enjoy a play-based, arts-infused program and older kids learn through a combination of classes and self-directed time.
- We do not give grades, homework or tests.
- ALPHA parents agree to not receive report cards and to opt out of the EQAO standardized testing.
- We provide feedback through in-depth parent/student/teacher conferences.

We are committed to social justice and anti-oppression education.
- Our daily curriculum reflects these values.
- We have used an equity admissions process since 2007.

Community is the heart of ALPHA.
- Kids develop social responsibility and autonomy through guided participation in community.
- Conflicts are resolved through restorative circles and our peer arbitration process.
- Parents are welcome to volunteer throughout the school and contribute in countless ways.

Kids learn together in mixed-age settings.
- Students from JK to grade 2 learn together, and students from grade 3 to grade 6 learn together.
- Peers learn from each other and look after one another.

Our approach is child-centered.
- Kids are trusted and respected at ALPHA.
- They have lots of time to play, and lots of time outdoors.
- It’s a messy and joyful place - ALPHA kids love to come to school!