Important Reminders

THE PEARL

A Remote Democratic High School

Mission: Providing international high school students an online democratic education that balances personal and social interests to become informed, competent, and involved citizens in a safe anti-racist environment.

Vision:  Revolutionize education by preparing young people to create a more just, sustainable, and equitable world. We are committed to making democratic education accessible to students who have been marginalized in traditional schools.

Why The Pearl?

Discover The Pearl – A 501(c)(3) non-profit that fosters inclusive education and customized learning Plans

Even before the COVID-19 crisis, many teens were left behind in the traditional educational system due to factors like socioeconomic status, ethnicity, gender identity, and learning styles. This often leads to marginalization and a negative impact on their long-term quality of life. The Pearl, however, offers an innovative approach to education that fosters community and embraces inclusion.

An Approach to Education that Values Student Input

At The Pearl, students share control of their learning environment, including rules, curriculum, and learning methods. This approach gives them a stake in their classes, resulting in higher engagement in their classrooms and communities. Additionally, our focus on equitable opportunities for participation promotes a culture of validation, where every voice is heard and respected. This creates a dynamic learning environment that builds a sense of community and brings out students’ cooperative nature.

Customized Learning Plans to Fit Your Family’s Needs

Our school offers a 21st century approach to learning that emphasizes freedom and choice. As a home-school partnership, we work with families to create a customized educational plan that fits their needs. Students have the flexibility to explore single courses or participate in all the courses we offer.

Building Critical Thinking Skills and Autonomy

Our approach to learning results in students becoming excited about education and developing critical thinking skills. The freedom to make choices and take control of their education promotes a sense of autonomy, self-management, and independence. With small classes of only 10 students, our teachers are active partners with students, empowering them to follow their interests and discover their potential.

Experience the Difference at The Pearl School

The Pearl School offers an evidence-based and inclusive approach to education that fosters a love for learning and critical thinking. With a focus on student autonomy, small class sizes, and partnership with families, our students are equipped to succeed and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

We currently have students in Canada, the United States, México, El Salvador, and Jamaica.

 The ultimate “test of a democratic education is the difference it makes in the lives of students and the community to which they belong”
(Pearl & Knight, 1999).

Important Announcements

Explore Online Learning: The Pearl High School’s Open House
24Apr

Explore Online Learning: The Pearl High School’s Open House

This summer, The Pearl is hosting a series of virtual open houses for new families to explore what it means to join our school.

Online Classes at The Pearl High School: Spring 2025
02Mar

Online Classes at The Pearl High School: Spring 2025

This spring, we are offering unique hybrid-homeschooling education for teens to attend worldwide! These classes can count towards a United States high school diploma.

From Gatekeepers to Facilitators ​ – Rethinking the Role of Educators in the Digital Age​
21Sep

From Gatekeepers to Facilitators ​ – Rethinking the Role of Educators in the Digital Age​

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever to be ready for the unexpected. As teachers, we frequently say that we are preparing…

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Student Projects

We're so proud of the brilliant and creative work of our students! Every term, students put together special projects to show what they've learned. Check out more of their work on our student showcase page.

General Information

Finding Your People – A High School Student Pespective
04Apr

Finding Your People – A High School Student Pespective

Enjoy this student blog written by alumni Kaitlyn T.​ sharing her experience with the social side of The Pearl: Remote Democratic High School.

Online Classes at The Pearl High School: Winter 2025
26Oct

Online Classes at The Pearl High School: Winter 2025

At the Pearl, we help homeschool parents set up a hybrid-education structure for their teens. This winter we are offering 12 unique hybrid-homeschooling classes for…

A Collaborative Short Film – Student Showcase
02Oct

A Collaborative Short Film – Student Showcase

In this Student Showcase, we share the work of current student Joseph and alumnus Keoni who created a powerful short film about staying focused in…

From Gatekeepers to Facilitators ​ – Rethinking the Role of Educators in the Digital Age​
21Sep

From Gatekeepers to Facilitators ​ – Rethinking the Role of Educators in the Digital Age​

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s more important than ever to be ready for the unexpected. As teachers, we frequently say that we are preparing…

Junen’s Drawing Process – Student Showcase
19Sep

Junen’s Drawing Process – Student Showcase

Discover the creative process of a visual arts student at The Pearl with stop motion! Watch Junen's video highlighting the process of creating art and…

Summer Community Meet-Up 2024
05Sep

Summer Community Meet-Up 2024

At The Pearl, we cherish every opportunity to connect with our students and their families in person, and this summer’s meet-up in Querétaro, Mexico, was…

Personalized Learning & Soaring Math Confidence: Lily’s Story
26Aug

Personalized Learning & Soaring Math Confidence: Lily’s Story

Meet Roberto Diaz, a parent from Panama, who shares his journey of discovering and enrolling his daughter, Lily, in The Pearl Remote Democratic High School.…

Authenticity in Action: Hande’s  Story at The Pearl
16Aug

Authenticity in Action: Hande’s Story at The Pearl

As I enter my second year at The Pearl, I find myself deeply immersed in a journey of self-rediscovery within this vibrant community. From the…

How The Pearl Helped My Daughter Rediscover Herself
13Aug

How The Pearl Helped My Daughter Rediscover Herself

Hi, my name is Marla, and I wanted to share what my life was like just before we discovered The Pearl. One day, I found…

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