Common questions.

Core academics and much more. Learners study math, reading, writing, spelling, typing, foreign languages, science, history, geography, and economics through a blend of Montessori and Acton methods. Learning happens via self-paced core skills, daily Socratic discussions, hands-on project-based quests, and a multi-year Civilization and Science sequence, all guided by the Hero's Journey.

Expectations are set at the start of the year. The learner, parents, and guides meet to create a personalized badge plan and shared academic goals. Progress is reviewed in two individual meetings during the year, with goals adjusted based on learner progress, desires, and family priorities.

Curious, self-motivated learners who work well with others — especially when supported by open-minded parents who believe children are capable and trustworthy.

Technology is used intentionally, mainly for self-paced core skills. It's balanced with hands-on work, discussions, outdoor time, and collaboration. For Montessori Spark (ages 3–6), screen time is very limited — twice a week, 20 minutes each, watching videos about the continent being explored. For learners ages 6 and older, we progressively add more screen time as they show readiness for adaptive learning software, which accelerates their learning — a maximum of about 2 hours a day, 4 days a week on average.

Our school year runs from late August to early June. We take one week off for Thanksgiving, two weeks off for Christmas and New Year, one week off before Easter Sunday, and close for most federal holidays. We follow Falls Church City Public Schools for weather-related closures.

Yes. We are accredited by the International Association of Learner Driven Schools (IALDS).

We do not serve children with significant special needs, but some learners with ADHD or dyslexia thrive here, depending on their particular needs. Children who struggle working in teams, getting along with others, or who need individualized support for learning don't fare well at Acton.

No. Learners work in multi-age studios to encourage mentoring, leadership, and collaboration. Spark is ages 3–6 and Discovery is ages 6–9. Older learners (10+) join us on a case-by-case basis and are integrated with the Discovery community, where they take on real leadership — mentoring younger kids, leading Socratic discussions, setting their own goals, and running their own weekly meetings.

All mastery is tracked and can be converted into a traditional transcript when needed. We have more data about our learners than any traditional school.

A lunch (or order from Harvey's next door — special learner menu) and a daily snack. All supplies, materials, and laptops are provided by the school.

Yes. An optional extended day program is available, until 4:30 pm or 5:30 pm.

No formal teams, but we prioritize daily outdoor physical activity. Our learners have joined multiple local leagues.

Through daily interactions with native Spanish-speaking guides and peers. For younger learners, also through songs and conversation. For older learners, adaptive tools and ongoing conversation with native-speaking guides.

November 2021. We offer year-round admissions and are currently accepting applications for 2026–27 and 2027–28.

Yes. We are a Christian, non-denominational school that includes faith naturally in daily life, remains apolitical, and offers an optional after-school catechesis program.

We believe God is the Creator of all that is in this universe, and that God uniquely created each human being to know Him and through Him to find purpose in life. We believe God became one of us as Jesus Christ, who seeks to bring us into a spiritual relationship with our Creator. We are apolitical and non-denominational, sitting at the intersection of the Catholic faith and other Christian denominations. We seek a simple, respectful, loving environment for each learner to seek, question, discuss, and struggle in their spiritual journey.

Because learners grow more confident and capable when they take responsibility, solve problems together, and practice empathy and accountability.

Yes, and more. We use full Montessori for ages 3–5, blend Montessori and Acton for ages 6–9, and apply the Acton model for ages 10–15 — adding real-world projects, Socratic dialogue, and modern learning tools.

A 19th-century scholar who championed freedom and responsibility. He famously said "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." His ideas inspire us to teach learners how to think, not what to think.

We believe each child can discover their gifts and use them to serve others and meet real needs in the world.

Yes. Character development — integrity, resilience, responsibility, empathy — is woven into everything we do.

The process of helping learners discover their purpose, face challenges with integrity, and grow into who they are meant to be.

Learners help set and revise studio rules, manage their time, choose daily priorities, and adjust goals with guidance — giving them real ownership of learning.

Through goal setting and reflection, real-time data from adaptive learning tools, mastery-based advancement, and portfolios of completed work.

Because Guides coach, model character, and help learners develop independence rather than delivering answers.

Yes. Learners build strong portfolios, critical thinking skills, and academic mastery — preparation for college and beyond. More importantly, for real-world success in life.

On average, Acton learners progress faster — sometimes advancing up to two grade levels in a year. Learning at your own pace takes less time because you don't wait for others, and you can spend more time on what you still need to master.

No. All required work happens during the school day, leaving time for family, rest, and exploration. Sometimes learners choose to work on projects at home — out of their own initiative.

Through clear values, shared boundaries, meaningful work, and accountability systems that balance freedom with responsibility.

Learners can join at any point during the school year. We then hold a goal-setting meeting with the parents and guides to ensure a strong start.

It's about fit, not competition. The process helps both families and the school decide if Acton is the right match.

Tours are offered on demand. Request a tour or a call and we'll respond as soon as possible.