Well, of course I couldn't find a link that really explains Walden schools! From what I've been told (read: this could well be incorrect), the idea behind them is to let kids study what they want to, the theory being that if they're interested in a subject they'll learn it better. I have been told by a parent who investigated one here in town (as a prospect for her child) that they make no attempt to teach children to read until fourth grade or about nine years old. [shaking head in disapproval e]