The Teacher Liberation Handbook: How to Leave School and Create a Place Where You and Young People Can Thrive is for teachers who love working with kids, but hate working within the confines of traditional schools. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own school, but felt it was impossible, creating a self-directed learning center instead might be the answer. No mind-numbing standards, no marathon grading sessions, working with young people who want what you have to offer. The Teacher Liberation Handbook provides the information you need to make this dream a reality: stories of educators who left teaching, details of the educational and organizational model, a description of the growing network of self-directed learning centers, frequently asked questions and concerns. Use The Teacher Liberation Handbook to improve your life and the lives of young people in your community.

What People are Saying

In the words of Derek Sivers, Joel Hammon is the “First Follower” of this approach, turning me from a “Lone Nut” into some sort of “Leader.” Joel’s vision, determination, and genuine concern for young people has inspired me to continue my own work and pushed me to be more serious and thoughtful along the way. His optimism and character shine throughout his storytelling. This book is a gift from Joel to the many disillusioned teachers who dream of starting their own programs. The world needs your action! Kenneth Danford, co-founder and director of North Star: Self-Directed Learning for Teens
For all those teachers out there who know in their hearts that far too many of our children are disengaged and disenfranchised in school, Joel Hammon has written a powerful roadmap for change that puts kids at the center of their learning and redefines what a “school” might be.Will Richardson, author of Why School?, Freedom to Learn and Personal Learning Networks
The Teacher Liberation Handbook shows you how to transform your life as an educator, find real autonomy, promote self-directed learning, and build respectful relationships with the young people you serve. Don’t wait for the school system to change; go change it yourself by creating a powerful alternative like Joel.Blake Boles, author of The Art of Self-Directed Learning and Better Than College

Ken Danford of North Star, Grace Llewellyn, author of the Teenage Liberation Handbook, and me at North Star's 20th Anniversary celebration.

 Grace signed my copy of her book!” /><p id=Ken Danford of North Star, Grace Llewellyn, author of the Teenage Liberation Handbook, and me at North Star’s 20th Anniversary celebration.

Grace signed my copy of her book!