Open Community School (Grand Forks, N.D.)

The Open Community School opened its doors for the first time in 1970, in response to a need for an alternative means to educate students. It allowed students to explore their own interests. The Open Community School was aprivate school, serving the needs of 30 students per year. It started with one certified teacher, with parents, other students, and volunteer teachers. The school had no grade levels, as students were expected to learn at their own level and pace. No report cards were given, just periodic evaluations of learning. Parents played a vital role in the school. They provided monetary support and also helped to clean the school, and assisted in other daily activities. Financial problems plagued the Open Community School throughout its existence and it was forced to close in 1979.