The Douglass Ridley School, set to launch in 2026, is a child-centered, independent school based in Boston, MA. Based in the Reggio Emilia philosophy and honoring the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Florida Ruffin Ridley, learning at the Douglass Ridley School is a collaborative and dynamic process that honors the natural curiosities and interests of children. We believe that when students have a voice in their learning, they develop a deep sense of ownership, agency, and joy in discovery. Our co-founders, Courtney Swartz and Alexis Rosenblatt, have combined over 40 years of experience in education. Courtney and Alexis are looking to build a learning environment built on relationships, curiosity, and community — a place where children are known deeply, where their questions shape the curriculum, and where teachers co-create learning experiences with students instead of delivering them. We are launching our school now because we believe every child deserves access to a high-quality, inclusive education—regardless of their background or financial situation. In the wake of the pandemic, many families are still navigating economic hardship, and traditional schools often fall short in meeting the full spectrum of students’ needs. By providing tuition assistance and transportation support, we aim to remove barriers and open our doors to all families.