A democratic school is an educational institution where the students have a say in how the school is run and what they learn. There are several synonyms for this term, including progressive schools, free schools, learner-centered schools, and student-centered schools. These institutions prioritize the needs and interests of the students over traditional instruction, and curriculum is often tailored to meet the needs and interests of the individual student. Students are encouraged to participate in decision-making and problem-solving activities, giving them a sense of empowerment and ownership over their education. In democratic schools, the emphasis is on developing critical thinking, creativity, and independence, rather than rote learning and conformity.