Owning their education.
A close-knit studio where young people learn collaboration, accountability, and how to contribute. They learn relevant concepts through enticing real-world projects.
A day in Discovery
Discovery learners begin their day with self-paced mastery in reading, writing, and math using a blend of Montessori and traditional learning methods and adaptive educational technology. Then they move into Socratic discussions and project-based quests with their peers.
They practice collaboration, accountability, and contribution. They learn to manage their own time, track their own progress, and support each other. Adults act as guides — asking questions, modeling positive behaviors, and coaching through challenges. We don't lecture. We don't assign busywork.
There are no grades or homework. Instead, progress is measured through demonstrated mastery, finished projects, and public exhibitions where learners present their work. Every learner builds a portfolio of completed mastery and finished projects throughout the year.
- Manage their time
- Track their own progress
- Support each other
- Take ownership over their work
- Set expectations, model behaviors
- Encourage focus and growth
- Coach through challenges
- Ensure safety and self-reflection
- Reading, writing, math, typing
- Spanish, foreign languages
- Civilization & history
- Science, technology, entrepreneurship
"On average, Acton learners progress faster — sometimes advancing up to two grade levels in a year — because they don't wait for others and can take more time on what's still unfamiliar."
Quantum learners
We call our 10+ year-olds Quantum learners, and they live and work inside the Discovery studio with a special role. They mentor younger kids, lead Socratic discussions, set their own goals, and run their own weekly meetings. They tackle harder quests, design their own passion projects, and choose their own work schedule.
Apprenticeships. When the moment is right, Quantum learners leave the studio to apprentice in the real world. Past Quantum learners have apprenticed in-house and with a life coach, an interior designer, and a realtor.
Mentors. We try to pair each Quantum learner with a mentor in their field of interest — often a parent from our community — though we can't guarantee a specific match.
This works best for independent learners and natural leaders. Our model is built around self-direction — it isn't the right fit for learners who need significant behavioral or learning support. If your child is 10 or older and you're curious about fit, please reach out — we evaluate older applicants case-by-case.