This session will be about connecting the dots--looking at the details of school practice and how they relate to the habits of mind essential to a democratic culture. It's in the details, especially in times of stress, that democracy either takes root or becomes a charade. Who makes decisions about what? What is the role of the official leadership? Are disagreements welcome? Do we reach consensus too fast or too slowly? How transparent are our "inner" workings, power relationships, disagreements, and processes for resolving conflict? Do kids and families have access to these processes? Do they even know about them? The presenter will explore all these questions and issues.