I learned of the community school when I answered an ad in the paper for high school tutors. I thought it would be a good opportunity to tap into some of my passions- teenagers and education. I saw a school that values the relationships among people and helping students succeed. I liked the feeling of the School- down to earth, relaxing, accepting. I wanted to become more involved and when a position opened up, I came for an interview. Although I didn't get the position, I was offered an internship. I accepted this almost immediately. In my mind, I wasn't necessarily looking for a paid position, but to be surrounded by a supportive community that met my needs (meaning room and board!).
I have visited intentional communities around the world to examine their internal structure, decision- making process, ecological impact, and philosophy. Community is an important piece of my life and I like to surround myself with it when the opportunity arises. Community coupled with education gives me the chills- I think it is the perfect marriage. It takes dedication, creativity, patience, and a little goofiness to pull it off, but when it works, it sends my spirit soaring.
I went to college at the U. of NH and majored in outdoor education. Leading trips in the wilderness, I recognized the importance of creating a small community among the members of the trips. The feeling that develops after a few days of being grungy and having a close call or two sparked my desire to surround myself with intentional community. I think community is everywhere and anywhere you make it but I prefer being in the presence of people and animals who share my values (I'm not sure if the animals share my values, but they sure look happy when I treat them nicely).
After I leave the community school, I plan to move to California. There are a few things out there that attract me- and that's all it takes! I am at a transient point in my life, exploring the world and dropping in and out of communities just for a taste. Once this itch to keep moving around leaves me, I want to be a humane educator (formally, I think just "walking my talk" makes me one) and a wildlife rehabilitator.
