As of December 2020 Dida Academy has closed its in-person and online programming.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Dida Academy served the Brooklyn community since 2016, when our program began as a project-based summer fellowship program. We grew into a full-fledged learning center the following year. From 2016- 2020 Dida Academy guided students on their self-directed learning journeys with our in-person and online programs.

 
 

Dida Academy redefined education through a self-directed, homeschool hybrid model. We provided an education to serve students above bureaucratic interests. Our unique environment allowed students to follow their innate curiosity, learn through experience, and build meaningful relationships. In our four and a half years of operation we built a place where students truly felt safe, seen, and supported.

The Dida Academy program was built on the foundations of self-directed learning, mentorship, and experiential education. Even in our closure we still believe that people learn best when they are able to tap into their intrinsic motivation. Our students spent their time with us directing their own learning with guidance from adult facilitators. Through this method we were able to foster deep and meaningful learning by giving students agency over what and how they learned. Dida facilitators spent our time developing authentic relationships with each student to help them build self-awareness, collaboration skills, and personal accountability. Our students broke the barrier between “education” and the “real world.” Through passion projects, curated activities, clubs, and guest visitors we exposed students to exciting opportunities and career paths. Our students were given the time to discover their passions and experience deep, meaningful learning and because of this we helped our young people find joy in learning.

We hope Dida Academy has inspired our community to pursue their innate curiosities and has strengthened their skills as autodidacts (self-taught individuals).

Thank you to our students, families, staff, and community members for your support. Dida Academy will live on in our hearts and memories.

 
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