Learning Design

A Collaborative Studio

At Acton Academy, young people learn in a collaborative studio of multi-age learners. Our flexible approach challenges each student with their own differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects and experiences. Acton’s Learner Driven Community puts children at the center of their learning. This allows them to create and maintain personal goals and relational covenants, as they Learn to Learn, Learn to Do, and Learn to Be.

Core Academic Skills

"Learn to Know"

Master the foundations of reading, writing, and math

Our learners master the foundations of reading, writing and math during daily “Core Skills” time. We replace external motivators like high-stakes test scores and grades with an intrinsic growth mindset. Students work with a guide to differentiate their core curriculum and progress at their own pace utilizing a blend of hands-on and online learning tools. They showcase their mastery by meeting their goals, earning badges, assembling portfolios and taking part in public exhibitions of their work.

Quests & Projects

"Learn to Do"

Hands-on projects to master the skills needed to solve real-world problems

We believe children learn best by doing. Whether it’s launching a startup business, creating a tide pool habitat, playing a musical instrument, painting a mosaic, or programming a robot, Acton Academy students are building real-life skills in the classroom every day. Our learners investigate, participate and contribute to the world around them by taking on meaningful, hands-on projects.

Socratic Discussions

"Learn to Learn"

Think and speak clearly to develop wisdom and judgment

Each day, learners cultivate critical thinking and decision making skills through Socratic discussions and individual reflection time. Among supportive and engaged peers, our children own the learning experience and embrace the idea that real growth is hard work – just like developing a muscle. As they “learn to learn”, they understand the importance of asking good questions, taking risks, and remaining curious about the world around them.

Servant Leadership

"Learn to Be"

Develop habits and character traits that make an abundant, fulfilling life

The Acton Academy experience immerses learners in real-life situations in ways that allow them to build the social, emotional, and executive skills needed to make a difference in the world. We guide students to develop personal virtues such as honesty, hard work, responsibility, kindness and empathy. Whether it’s setting up rules for the studio, holding a friend accountable during group work, leading a studio maintenance team, or reflecting on missing their math goal, students are constantly exercising and honing life skills.

The Hero's Journey

Learning at Acton Academy is an invitation to a Hero’s Journey. We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and a series of trials and tests that must be faced with integrity and purpose, in order to live a life of meaning. Our mission is to prepare everyone for his or her special journey.

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