top of page

Frequently Asked Questions
-
WHAT IS THE COST OF TUITION?You will find the 2025 attached fee schedule below. We encourage any interested families to apply regardless of their financial situation as we may have a limited number of scholarships available. This can be addressed later on the application process.
-
IS ACTON ACADEMY SAULT STE MARIE AN ACCREDITED SCHOOL?Acton Academy Sault Ste Marie is accredited by the International Association of Learner-Driver Schools.
-
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY "LEARNER-DRIVEN"?We believe it is important for our learners to be able to research questions, follow instructions, solve problems—admit that they don't know something, and figure out a solution when they hit a roadblock without asking an adult for help — participate in discussions, and strive for mastery. An important part of this is encouraging children to take responsibility for their own behavior and encouraging them to hold those around them to a high standard. When something isn't working, we want children to work together to solve the problem, not simply look for an adult to solve it for them. This process helps to develop a sense of independence and confidence in children that will serve them well in all areas of life.
-
WILL MY CHILD BE ABLE TO GO BACK TO PUBLIC SCHOOL OR ATTEND A GOOD UNIVERSITY AFTER ATTENDING AN ACTON ACADEMY?We strive to provide an environment which prepares children to tackle any challenge they may face on their journey. This includes trying out a traditional school or attending the most selective of universities. We are accepting and supportive of all educational paths, including those that take children away from Acton Academy Sault Ste Marie. Acton owners report that moving back to a traditional school is generally easy for children, although they may want to come back! Here is a clip of Acton Academy graduate sharing his experience attending a formal school for a year of high school.
-
WHAT ARE SOCRATIC DISCUSSIONS?In a Socratic discussion, a guide sets up scenarios and asks questions to stimulate critical thinking and independent learning. Acton uses the Socratic method rather than lectures because through discussions and actively making arguments to support their beliefs, children hone their critical thinking and speaking abilities and we believe that leads to gaining a better understanding of a topic than by passively taking notes during a lecture. Outside of discussions, guides employ the Socratic method with children throughout the day in order to build and reinforce independent thinkers who are able to answer their own questions.
-
IS ACTON ACADEMY SAULT STE MARIE A RELIGIOUS SCHOOL?Acton Academy Sault Ste Marie is a secular school and does not have any specific religious affiliation.
-
DO YOU SERVE CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS?We are not trained to serve children with serious learning disabilities or special needs. However, other Acton Academy owners have found that children with ADHD and minor learning disabilities often thrive in their learner-driven studios. We would be happy to discuss your child's situation and whether we could meet their needs.
-
WHAT AGES ARE ACCEPTED?In 2025-2026, we will offer enrollment to children aged 4-12. We have future plans to open a Middle School Studio (12-14) and Launchpad (14+).
-
WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED?For the 2025-2026 semester, we will continue to rent a classroom at 753 McNabb St, conveniently located across from Finn Hill and the Hub Trail.
-
HOW DO WE MEASURE AND TRACK PROGRESS AT ACTON ACADEMY SAULT STE MARIE?At Acton Academy Sault Ste Marie, we take a broader and more comprehensive approach to measuring learner progress, moving beyond traditional grades and report cards. Our methods incorporate a variety of tools and systems that focus on growth, mastery, and skill development. Setting and Tracking Goals Learners work alongside their guide and peers to set personalized goals, whether daily, weekly, or by session. This goal-setting process is an essential skill for lifelong learning, helping learners track their progress, stay focused, and take ownership of their learning journey. Badges and Portfolios Our badge system sets clear expectations for key areas such as reading, writing, math, and social/emotional growth. As learners meet these expectations, they earn badges, build portfolios, and have opportunities to showcase their work in public exhibitions. This gives learners a meaningful way to demonstrate their accomplishments. Parent Involvement We believe in the active involvement of parents in their child’s learning journey. Parents are encouraged to stay engaged by attending exhibitions, participating in regular meetings, and reviewing learner portfolios. This ongoing partnership ensures parents are always informed about their child’s progress.
-
IS PART-TIME ENROLLMENT AN OPTION AT ACTON ACADEMY SAULT STE MARIE?Yes, it may be possible for your child to enroll part-time. However, several factors—such as your child's age and the studio you're considering—need to be taken into account. If you're interested in exploring part-time enrollment, please reach out to schedule a meeting. We’d be happy to discuss your needs and help you weigh the pros and cons of the different options available.
bottom of page