I agree with the elimination of grades, but I don't think a teacher per child is necessary. I don't have experience with kids, but I would prefer a system of "c

I agree with the elimination of grades, but I don't think a teacher per child is necessary. I don't have experience with kids, but I would prefer a system of "circles" and "levels". For each discipline, there would be defined different levels of ability. To attain a level, you would have to go through exam. If you would fail, you could repeat the level (even multiple times). Each level would be attainable in about half-year of directed study. So there would be no grades, only levels - you couldn't get best grades, because there would always be some level above you which you would attempt to attain. Now kids would be grouped into circles primarily based on ability at the discipline, not age. So you could be older in one group and younger in another, depending on how good you are. That way, the typical social hierarchy in classroom would be limited. I also think presence of the older kids could prevent lot of bullying, and kids could make more connections with other kids that are better or worse in different disciplines. Of course, there should be ingrained a culture of helping to learn (those with higher levels should help those with lower levels). You could select yourself which levels in what disciplines you want to attain each semester, however there would probably be some basic total curriculum you have to go through. Also you couldn't opt for less total work; if you fail the level, you would have to repeat it, so you would be motivated not to fail.