Cupola Academy: A Modern Model for Self-Directed, Secular Learning
About this episode
Kerry McDonald speaks with Julia Bergson-Shilcock and Mike Hilbert, founders of Cupola Academy, a secular learning community in Pennsylvania serving homeschooling families through part-time, in-person programs. Drawing from decades in alternative education—and Julia's own unschooling background—they share how Cupola fosters autonomy, collaboration, and a lifelong love of learning. The conversation explores what's changed in the self-directed education movement over the past 20 years, how alumni thrive in college and beyond, and what advice they offer parents and educators seeking a more human-centered approach to learning.
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Kerry's latest book, Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling, is available now wherever books are sold!
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