The New School was founded in 1989 by John Potter, an English-born educator and school leader, on the principle of what he called “ownership.” Ownership is an approach to learning and self-awareness that invites students to be active participants in their education and school community. We give our students considerable choice in the direction of their work, and a voice within our community, because we know individuals are more invested, more self-motivated, happier, and grow more when they feel their work belongs to them and they are valued members of their community. 

The second ideal to John’s vision was teacher-student dialogue. New School teachers and students are on a first-name basis and approach one another with mutual respect. There is no us-them; rather a single, friendly school community.  

The foundation of The New School is a people-centered spirit that inspires us all – students, teachers, administrators, and parents – to be our best, most authentic selves.