Days coursing with energy.
A day at The Village Electric feels nothing like a conventional school—and that’s the point. It’s alive with joy, curiosity, and purpose.
The School Day
We're open from 8:45am to 3pm Monday through Friday and welcome children from 4 to 19. Students shape their own days, diving into what interests them most. One might be outside building a fort in the woods while another perfects a stop-motion animation. Some might gather for a group activity or work together on a creative project, while others find a quiet corner to read.
Instead of rigid schedules and mandatory classes, we focus on fostering personal agency and exploration. Mixed ages create a natural learning environment, and everyone is encouraged to ask big questions, try new things, and follow their instincts. Whether playing basketball, designing in the maker space, or experimenting in the art studio, here, learning is as natural as breathing—and just as essential.
Offerings and Classes
Most of the time, our kids are learning everything they need on their own. Sometimes, we organize classes and other experiences when there is interest or when someone has something unique they want to share. Anyone can request or host a class. Here's what's happening now.
Started Jan 27
Started Jan 29
Started Jan 31
Learn MoreUsing inspiring poems and literary games, we'll learn how a poet makes us feel things through words.
Started Feb 4
How We're Wired
Read on to see how we've united freedom and structure to create a blueprint for true community.
The School Meeting
At The Village Electric, every voice matters. Our daily School Meeting is where students and staff come together as equals to shape life in our school. Everyone—regardless of age—has one vote, deciding on everything from policies and field trips to budgeting for projects or launching an algebra class.
In grappling with real-world decisions, students gain more than a say—they gain a profound understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the delicate balance between the two.
The outcomes are extraordinary: young people who deeply value their independence, take ownership of their community, and rise to meet the challenges of getting along together. School Meeting isn’t just where we make decisions—it’s where we grow leaders, thinkers, and doers.
Mediation
Life isn’t all smooth sailing—and that’s okay. Conflict is part of the deal when humans (even little ones) share a space. Our mediation process helps kids navigate the tricky waters of relationships with confidence and care.
Here’s how it works: When tensions rise, a trained mediator—either a staff member or a peer—steps in to guide a calm, honest conversation. Everyone gets to share their side, and work toward a solution that feels right for everyone. It’s simple, it’s fair, and it reminds kids that even the best friendships can weather a little turbulence.
These aren’t just skills for school—they’re tools for life. From learning how to listen to speaking up with kindness and clarity, mediation helps kids grow into relationship rockstars. And if they want to level up, we offer mediation training so they can help others do the same. By the time they leave us, our kids are better equipped to build strong, healthy relationships wherever life takes them.
Judicial Committee
When mediation doesn’t resolve an issue, we turn to the Judicial Committee (or J.C., as we like to call it). Think of the J.C. as a next-level problem-solving team—structured yet approachable, and always focused on fairness and learning rather than blame.
It works like this: If someone in our community—student or staff—feels a boundary or rule has been crossed, they can file a write-up. This isn’t about tattling; it’s about giving everyone a chance to reflect and make things right. The J.C., made up of a rotating group of one staff member and two students, reviews the issue carefully. They ask questions, listen to everyone’s perspective, and work together to understand what happened. Once all sides are heard, they focus on solutions, suggesting ways to repair harm or prevent future problems.
While the structure may seem formal, it’s actually empowering for kids. The J.C. provides real-world lessons in accountability, fairness, and how rules support—not stifle—a thriving community. It’s about helping kids see the impact of their actions and encouraging them to take responsibility in a way that’s fair and supportive.
Our People
When kids feel trusted and believed in, they do amazing things. That's why we see our most important role as creating a supportive environment for their exploration so they can take charge of their education—and their lives.
Tammy Tiranasar
STAFF
Tammy began her career as a fashion and jewelry designer, with her womenswear and jewelry collections featured in Barneys and Anthropologie. As a mother of three, she has experienced a range of educational models and feels deeply aligned with the philosophies of A.S. Neill and Daniel Greenberg, founders of Summerhill and Sudbury Valley.
Drawing inspiration from their work, Tammy is a passionate advocate for self-directed learning, believing that children flourish when given the freedom to grow on their own terms. She is continually exploring questions about talent, genius, and how to support children in leading joyful, meaningful lives.
Ben Ashfield
STAFF
After a twenty year career as an award-winning creative director in advertising, Ben turned his attention to education. A father of three, he soon realized there is a huge unmet need as well as a lot of really exciting things happening around the world promising to bring big changes to how children learn.
This led Ben to co-founded The Village Electric with his wife Tammy four years ago. He loves sharing his interest in design, computers, fine art, sports, and making things with young people of all ages.