What learning looks like at Acton Academy Sault Ste Marie
Learning for the 21st century
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Experience-based projects to develop the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world.
Deep Socratic discussions about heroes, history and self-governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write and speak.
The latest in educational technology for self paced mastery of reading, writing and math.
Professional tools for art, engineering, tech and storytelling in place of worksheets and busy work.
Written promises that form a tightly bound community of individuals learning to form authentic friendships and honestly resolve interpersonal problems.
Children learn in tightly bound communities with extremely high standards of excellence, where self-management and self-governance are celebrated daily.
A tight-knit community of lifelong learners
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Learners create and sign a Contract of Promises describing how each individual will act and the consequences for violating community norms.
Running Partners and Squads encourage younger and older children to listen, affirm, set goals and hold each other accountable.
Servant Leader badges celebrate warm-hearted and tough-minded decisions that build character.
Spark Studio
Ages 4-7
Our goal is to ignite a passion for learning in every child who steps through our doors. The Spark Studio is where this journey begins, designed to foster curiosity and self-discovery through hands-on activities, collaborative play, and exploration. It’s here that learners build the independence, focus, and emotional intelligence they need to thrive in the next stage of their education—ready to enter an Acton Discovery Studio.
In the Spark Studio, learners will:
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Develop a love for learning through engaging hands-on projects and outdoor adventures
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Build the foundations of reading, writing, math, goal-setting, leadership, and personal responsibility
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Learn how to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and work independently
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Explore their natural interests and creativity while having tons of fun!
Spark Studio Daily Schedule
8:30 Drop-off / Free Time
8:45 Daily Launch (Socratic Discussion)
9:00 Morning Work Cycle: Reading, writing and math, group games, frequent "Brain Breaks"
11:30 Lunch / Free Time
12:30 Daily Launch (Socratic Discussion)
12:45 Hands-on work, outdoor unstructured play, team-based challenges, art, report on goals.
3:00 Studio Maintenance
3:20 Pickup
The schedule is flexible. Children choose from a variety of work options based on interests, goals, and passions. Any activities that can be done in the outdoors are moved outside, including daily reading and writing. Many "brain breaks" will consist of fun games outside (weather permitting).
Discovery Studio
Ages 7-12
The Discovery Studio is where learners take their next big steps on their educational journey, building upon the foundation laid in the Spark Studio. An Acton Elementary Studio is like a close-knit neighborhood where learners tackle important work, solve problems, collaborate with peers, and engage in increasingly challenging games.
In the Discovery Studio, learners will:
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Have fun and welcome others.
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Set and track goals.
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Achieve self-paced mastery of foundational skills in math, reading, writing, and Civilizations.
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Explore, are curious, and develop a love of learning through hands-on project-based learning and entrepreneurship.
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Build communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills through Socratic discussions and meaningful challenges.
Discovery Studio Daily Schedule
8:45 Drop-off / Free Time
9:00 Daily Launch (Socratic Discussion)
9:15 Core Skills: Goal setting, math, writer's workshop, reading, civilization discussion, "Brain Breaks" throughout
11:30 Lunch / Free Time
12:30 Daily Launch (Socratic Discussion)
12:45 Quest: Team-based challenges, sciences, coding, entrepreneurship, art & music, history
2:45 Studio Maintenance
3:00 Closing Socratic Discussion
3:20 Pickup
Our Educational Philosophy
We believe clear thinking leads to good decisions, good decisions lead to the right habits, the right habits forge character, and character determines destiny.
Our Promises
We promise, through Socratic guiding and experiential learning, you and your child will:
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Begin a Hero's Journey
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Learn to be curious, become an independent learner, and love life-long learning
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Discover your most precious gifts, along with the dedication it takes to develop real talent
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Understand the importance of a strong character
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Cherish the arts, the wonders of the physical world, and the mystery of life
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Treasure economic, political, and religious freedom
Our Beliefs
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We believe each child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way.
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We believe in a closely connected family of lifelong learners.
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We believe in learning to learn, learning to do, and learning to be.
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We believe in economic, political, and religious freedom.