Parent Coffee August 14, 2025: Healthy vs Anxious mindsets
This morning’s Parent Coffee, led by Tyler, centered on one of Forest School’s most important commitments: helping learners grow into independent, self-directed young people who can change the world.
Tyler invited families to reflect on the contrast between two very different types of schools: a teacher-centered model (highly structured, with the teacher as the authority and decision-maker) versus a learner-centered model (where learners make choices, set their own pace, and collaborate to learn in real-world ways). Parents noted how the traditional model often produces dependent learners, while Forest’s learner-led environment intentionally develops agency, adaptability, and purpose.
Learner-Led vs. Teacher-Led Education
In a teacher-led classroom, learners follow directions, complete worksheets, and receive instruction passively. At Forest, however, learners:
Make choices about their work and pace
Engage in collaborative problem-solving
Use peer and expert feedback to assess progress
Explore concepts through real-world applications
Tyler addressed specific questions, including how math is taught, sharing that guides use a mix of direct instruction and hands-on, collaborative approaches with real-life examples.
Personalized Learning Through Badges
A highlight of the conversation was Forest’s badge plan system, which gives learners a way to track skills and knowledge while also pursuing personal passions. Tyler shared examples of learners who have designed badges around soccer, Portuguese, stock trading, acting, piloting, and more—sometimes leading to real-world achievements and even career opportunities.
Parents play a vital role here. Tyler encouraged families to review their learner’s badge plan, consider whether they’d like to add or modify anything, and help their child think through how to pursue these badges during the school day.
Parent Roles in a Learner-Led School
Parents in a traditional system often focus on grades and compliance. In a learner-led environment, the role looks different:
Reviewing and discussing badge plans with their child
Supporting learners in taking ownership of their goals
Partnering with the school on custom badges or adjustments
Connecting with their assigned parent buddy (especially for families new to Forest)
Tyler also announced that he will be creating one-pager guides outlining parent roles in this unique educational model.
Breakout Room Discussions
Families had the chance to join breakout groups by Studio level (Spark, Elementary, Middle School, and High School). These small sessions gave space to review badge plans, ask questions, and connect with other parents.
Next Steps for Parents
Review your learner’s badge plan and decide if you’d like to add, remove, or change anything.
Share any changes with the school team.
Help your learner think through how to accomplish custom badges during the school day.
If you’re new, connect with your assigned parent buddy.
Look out for upcoming one-pagers from Tyler on parent role