At the Emerson Lily Free School we allow students to participate in decision-making by direct democracy.   Direct democracy is a process where all members decide on issues and proposals together (instead of representative democracy where members vote on a person to make decisions for them).  
 
At the Emerson Lily Free School, we use Consensus decision-making, instead Robert’s Rules of Order (majority rules).  Consensus is a process of collaborative discussion which protects the needs of both the group and the individual.  In Consensus, the whole group makes decisions, instead of a majority or minority. Through Consensus, each individual’s concerns and ideas are listened to and considered.   The group works with and adjusts a proposal until all can consent to its final form. Decisions are only made when every member gives his or her consent. This process gives more voice to individuals with minority viewpoints.  One member can block a decision, if he or she feels it is against the vision, mission and/or principles of the school.  With Consensus there may not be a complete agreement in every decision, but there is always a complete consent.  To read more about The Emerson Lily Free School’s Consensus process, read our Consensus Process Handbook and Meeting Guidelines.  We recommed C.T. Butler's On Conflict and Consensus.  Also, there are some great resources from the UK-based organization, Seeds For Change, and Tree Bressen.
 
The school meeting is an important part of the school (and may be one of the most educational).  It protects each student’s individuality and teaches students and staff to work cooperatively with others.  Students learn quickly how to express themselves through their experience at the school meeting.  Regular school meetings occur once a week although a student or staff member may call an additional all-school meeting at any time.  This may be for a pressing decision or to resolve a conflict.

With consensus decision-making and democratic governance, the Emerson Lily Free School fosters independent thinking, cooperation, logical thought, emotional intelligence, creativity, collaboration, empathy, an understanding of the governing process and democracy.