Free School of Evanston


The Free School of Evanston was an alternative school that existed in Evanston, Illinois,
United States from 1971 to 1976, for five school years.

Influences

The Free School was influenced by Summerhill School. At meetings, parents, students, and teachers were all equal, each having one vote. Tuition was based on a sliding scale percentage of parents' income. The school did not pursue educational accreditation.

Location

The school rented space at:
School yearsSpaceBuildingAddressCoordinates
1971-72basementUnitarian Church of Evanston1330 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, Illinois
1972-76many roomsWheadon United Methodist Church2214 Ridge Avenue, Evanston, Illinois

Student body

The school enrolled more than 100 students, aged 5–16, divided into lower, middle, and upper age groups. Most were from the Chicago suburbs, with a few from Chicago's inner city neighborhoods.

Principals