300+ schools · 30 countries

We didn't reform the old model. We built a new one.

A global network of learner-driven schools where young people are set free to find a calling that will change the world.

Start Your Acton Journey Find a Campus Near You
300+
Campuses worldwide
30
Countries
42
U.S. States
9/10
Family satisfaction rating
Jake Thompson
Your Guide

Jake Thompson

Dear Parent,

We are just ordinary parents like you, who believe each of our children came to earth with unique gifts and passions that are theirs to nurture and grow. We long for them to discover who they are and craft a vision for themselves that will lead to meaning and purpose in a world full of distractions.

That's why when we discovered Acton Academy, we knew it was exactly what we wanted for our children. Instead of chasing grades or taking tests, young people at Acton were taking charge of their learning, focusing on what really matters:

  • Learning to Learn
  • Learning to Do
  • Learning to Be

That led us to doing what now more than 300 other parent entrepreneurs like us have done, bringing Acton Academy to our community.

Whether you decide to join, launch, or guide at an Acton, I hope this represents a pivotal moment for you, your family, your community, and the world.

All the best, Jake
Why Acton

Why Families Like Yours Are Choosing Acton

Learners thrive with ownership
Reason #1

Learners Thrive When Given Ownership

Self-management and self-governance are celebrated daily by learners who use 21st century skills to tackle real world projects, inspired by classic heroes in a tightly bound community with extremely high standards.

Learning by doing
Reason #2

Learning Happens Best by Doing

Hands-on Quests for Science, Entrepreneurship, and the Arts prepare children for apprenticeships and real-world challenges.

Learning to Be
Reason #3

'Learning to Be' is the Most Important Learning of All

Grit, courage, and perseverance in the face of real challenges transforms learners as they discover how to use their gifts to serve others in a way that brings them deep joy.

3 Paths to Join Us

Are you looking for a traditional school or the adventure of a lifetime?

Start an Acton Academy
Path #1
Start an Acton Academy
Owner

Join hundreds of other parent-entrepreneurs who are transforming education for their family, community, and the world.

Start a School →
Become an Apprentice Guide
Path #2
Become an Apprentice Guide
Guide

From apprentice to master guide, learn Acton from the inside, then lead or launch a campus of your own.

Become a Guide →
Enroll My Child
Path #3
Enroll My Child
Parent

Give your child the gift of curiosity, confidence, and character while preparing them for a bright future in the 21st century.

Find a School →
See It for Yourself

What Learning Looks Like at Acton Academy

We didn't set out to fix the traditional model. We built something entirely new. This is what disruptive education looks like in practice.

Our Approach

Acton Academy is Disruptive

We didn't set out to fix the system. We built something entirely new.

Reform
Traditional School
Disrupt
Acton Academy
Who
○ Educators & administrators
● Entrepreneurs & parents
Approach
○ Improve existing systems
● Design from first principles
Speed
○ Slow and incremental
● Fast and experimental
Constraints
○ Policy, tradition, compliance
● Few to none
Mindset
○ Fix what exists
● Reimagine what's possible
What Drives Us

Mission & Learning Philosophy

Our Mission
To inspire each person who enters our doors to find a calling that will change the world.
Learning Philosophy
→ Clear thinking leads to good decisions.
→ Good decisions lead to the right habits.
→ The right habits forge character.
→ Character determines destiny.
Testimonials

What others are saying

Tom Vander Ark

Acton Academy is one of the most important education developments in the world.

Tom Vander Ark
CEO of Getting Smart
Heather Staker
Heather
Author, Ready to Blend

The most amazing outcome at Acton is that young heroes there are genuinely enthralled with learning. Simply said, they LOVE school.

Matt Greenfield
Matt
Rethink Education

I am confident that any randomly-selected ten-year-old from Acton would have succeeded instantly where at least some MIT graduates failed.

T
Tori
Acton Parent

Acton is everything we have been looking for and more! We believe our children can accomplish anything they set their minds to — and Acton does too. They help propel them forward with guided questions and encourage the student to find the answer for themselves.

D
Dawn
Acton Parent

I have watched my daughter blossom into a confident, kind and happy young lady! The Acton way is truly transforming education and we are grateful to be part of it.

K
Kayleigh
Acton Parent

We are so thankful to have found this school for our children. They instill a love of learning and teach critical thinking, problem solving, kindness and respect. I recommend Acton to everyone!

J
Jon
Acton Parent

We've seen so much growth out of both of our kids. It's been fun to see our son take an interest in reading and work independently. We couldn't be happier — and more importantly, they love it too!

Courage to Grow book
Courage to Grow

Are you ready to turn learning upside down?

Courage to Grow is the intimate origin story of Acton Academy, one of today's most innovative schools with a model quickly spreading around the globe. If you have ever wondered if there are more powerful ways for young people to learn, step aboard for a behind the scenes tour of how Acton Academy unlocks the genius in every child, while embracing personal accountability and forging character.

Get Your Free Chapter

"THE must-have book for any parent or anyone else who cares about education."

Still curious?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Questions from others like you.

What is Acton Academy?

Acton Academy is a network of learner-driven schools where each young person is inspired to find a calling that will change the world. Each campus is independently owned by parent entrepreneurs and united by shared learning design and high standards of excellence.

How is Acton Academy different from traditional school?

Instead of lectures, grades, and constant adult direction, Acton emphasizes self-paced mastery, Socratic discussions, and hands-on quests. Learners set goals, manage their time, and learn to solve meaningful problems with increasing independence.

What does it cost to start an Acton Academy?

The cost to start an Acton Academy is a one-time $20,000 affiliate fee plus 4% royalties on annual revenue.

What ages does Acton Academy serve?

Most Acton Academies serve learners ages 4–18, typically across studios like Spark (ages 4–7), Elementary (ages 7–11), Middle School (ages 11–14), and Launchpad (ages 14–18). Age groupings vary by campus.

Is Acton Academy a private school or a homeschool?

Most Acton Academies operate as private schools or learning centers. Some campuses offer part-time or hybrid options. Families can contact their local campus to understand available enrollment models.

Do learners use technology at Acton Academy?

Yes—intentionally. Technology is used to support self-paced learning and prepare learners for the modern world. It is a tool, not a source of entertainment, and is carefully balanced with hands-on projects, writing, real books, collaboration, and play. On average, learners use technology 1–1.5 hours per day, with the youngest studios typically having no tech or upwards of 20 minutes.

What does "learner-driven" actually mean?

Learner-driven means learners take ownership of their learning and decisions—setting goals, tracking progress, collaborating with peers, and reflecting on growth—while guides design the environment, offering powerful questions and difficult challenges.

How does Acton measure learning without traditional grades?

Traditional schools primarily measure learning through grades and test scores. Acton Academy instead equips learners with tools to evaluate effort, mastery, and leadership, demonstrating progress through clear standards, skill tracking, portfolios, exhibitions, and real work.

Can I visit an Acton Academy near me?

Yes. Most campuses offer tours, information sessions, or audition days. You can find a campus near you and reach out directly to schedule a visit.

How are Acton Academies started?

Acton Academies are launched by mission-driven parent entrepreneurs who want a learner-driven school in their community. Each campus is locally owned and independently operated.

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