North Star Self-Directed Learning for Teens

North Star Self-Directed Learning for Teens is a self-directed learning center in Sunderland, Massachusetts, founded in 1996. The mission of North Star is to help teenagers find ways to learn and excel outside of traditional middle school and high school. It offers a non-coercive learning environment without required classes, grades or tests. Members range in age from 11 to 19 years old. Both previously-schooled teens and long-time homeschoolers attend the center. As of 2015, North Star has over 60 members and over 500 alumni from all over the Pioneer Valley and beyond.

North Star was founded by two Massachusetts middle school teachers who were frustrated with a system that forced students to attend their classes. In contrast, North Star supports teenagers to self-direct their education, offering a program of optional classes, tutoring, trips and community events, taught and organized by North Star's professional staff and an extensive network of volunteers. Each North Star member is paired with an advisor who supports and encourages the teen as they transition to self-directed learning. The center is funded through sliding-scale tuition and donations.