North Star was founded by two Massachusetts middle school teachers who were frustrated with a system that forced students to attend their classes.

Each North Star member is paired with an advisor who supports and encourages the teen as they transition to self-directed learning.

In June 2015, North Star moved to Sunderland due to safety concerns with the Russell Street building.

This customized plan consists of a staff adviser, parent conferences, and classes, tutorials, workshops, or tutoring if desired and available.

Since 2010, several self-directed learning centres have opened in both the United States and Canada, using the approach and program pioneered by North Star.