What does it look like to build a school around student voice, joyful learning, and real affordability?
In this episode of LiberatED, Kerry McDonald speaks with Elizabeth Dean, Head of Learning at The Village School, a learner-centered school in Arlington, Virginia serving about 70 students. Elizabeth shares her journey from public school teacher and instructional coach to school leader—and how her own negative schooling experiences sparked a commitment to creating more human, joyful learning environments.
Elizabeth explains how the Village School emphasizes hands-on projects, real-world challenges, and two hours of unstructured play every day—while still seeing students perform above grade level on standardized tests. She also discusses the school's deliberate choice to keep tuition below half the cost of most traditional private schools in Northern Virginia, supported by a robust financial aid program that prioritizes access over luxury amenities.
The conversation explores the school's three-way partnership among learners, guides, and parents, the importance of social capital and personal development, and plans to launch a high school program in 2028. This episode is a powerful example of how learner-centered schools can remain financially sustainable, academically strong, and deeply human.
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Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
