About Us

Founded in 1969, The Free School in Albany is the longest running inner-city democratic school in the country. The Harriet Tubman Free School (HTFS) was formed in order to continue the alternative education traditions into grades nine through twelve. We offer a safe and personal learning environment for teenagers from diverse backgrounds. Our staff strives to teach young adults how to think for themselves by encouraging critical discussions and respecting student input into their educational process. Our students learn self-motivation and, in the process, discover independence and self-reliance.

In keeping with Harriet Tubman’s remarkable example of courage and conviction, the Harriet Tubman Free School teaches young adults appreciation for peoples of diverse backgrounds and experiences.  HTFS also teaches an understanding of the democratic principle of equality, with an aim towards carrying this community consciousness beyond our students' participation in our school.

Harriet Tubman Free School responds to the growing need of teens for independent, community-based learning. We operate the only democratic educational institution for teens in the Capital District. Harriet Tubman Free School offers a full time day school option centered on student-designed projects, community internships, and portfolio building.

* All students are empowered to make decisions about their own learning
* Individualized learning plans and assessment instead of grades
* High priority placed on the social and emotional learning of students
* Small group mentoring
* Internship and community service placement
* Diverse course offerings in line with student interests
* One-on-one tutoring and portfolio building
* Educational field trips and excursions
* College preparation
* Classes available for home schooling teens

Professional Memberships & Affiliations:
Member School:
Northeast Association of Independent Democratic Schools (NAIDS)
Alternative Education Resource Organization (AERO)
International Democratic Education Network (IDEN)
Participating School:
International Democratic Education Conference (IDEC)