2026 Global Self-Directed Democratic School Conference

Wed, July 22, 2026 — 5:00 PM CST

A biennial opportunity for educators from democratic schools to come together in person and share their knowledge and experience, the 2026 Global Self-Directed Democratic School Conference comes to the Chicagoland area, hosted by Tallgrass Sudbury School!

This eagerly awaited conference will include breakout sessions on topics related to democratic schooling, networking opportunities with educators from around the world, and an exciting array of featured sessions and excursions. Featured events include a panel on SDT research, a presentation from Sudbury International, a unique optional excursion aboard a 150-ft tall ship, and highlighted by Saturday Night's keynote address from the author of "Free to Learn", Dr. Peter Gray.