Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
We believe that learning to do, learning to be, and learning to learn are more important than memorization.
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Acton focuses on developing critical thinking, self-discipline, and entrepreneurial skills, which are essential for success beyond school. Students complete real-world projects, apprenticeships, and paid internships that sharpen their ability to communicate, problem-solve, and adapt.
By taking ownership of their education, they build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in any future path, whether it’s high school, college, or entrepreneurship.
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Acton Academy blends adaptive online tools, hands-on projects, and real-world apprenticeships instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Core subjects like math and reading are mastered through self-paced programs like Khan Academy and Lexia Core 5, while science, history, and the arts are explored through inquiry-based projects. This approach prioritizes mastery over memorization and fosters a deep understanding of concepts.
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We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and a series of trials and tests that must be faced with integrity and purpose, in order to live a satisfying and fulfilled life. Our mission is to prepare your child for his or her special journey.
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It is $1000 per month, Sep- July.
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Guides at Acton Academy don’t lecture or provide direct answers; instead, they ask thought-provoking questions and encourage students to find their own solutions. Their role is to create a supportive, challenging environment where students take ownership of their learning. By acting as mentors and facilitators, guides help students develop problem-solving skills, self-discipline, and a growth mindset.
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We operate from September to July; this calendar allows for our students to have extended breaks throughout the year and maintains their interests and retention by shortening the summer break.
Our flexible program allows families to travel together throughout the year without sacrificing any learning. -
Someone who can research questions, 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. As well as participate in discussions, and present ideas with confidence.
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Parents are seen as partners in their child’s learning journey, providing support and encouragement at home. Acton encourages open communication between parents, students, and guides to ensure alignment in goals and expectations. Parents are expected to attend exhibition of learning events, which occur at the end of every 6-week session, and attend 2-3 portfolio review meetings during the academic year.
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We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy but, we are not a Montessori school. We also use the latest interactive technologies, hands on projects and the Socratic Method for discussions.
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We are open to Believers, Searchers and Non-Believers alike.
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Acton Academy Essex County is part of the network of over 300 Acton Academies around the world. We follow the same exact Learning Design (curriculum) and learning model that our owners helped create at the original Acton Academy campus.
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Acton Academy is ideal for curious learners who enjoy problem-solving and hands-on experiences. It benefits students who thrive in a flexible, more intimate environment where they can take ownership of their education.
While the approach works for many, older students (10+) who are used to constant external structure and instruction may find the transition challenging at first. We have found that with enough support, the vast majority of these students learn to overcome this initial challenge and go on to develop the skills needed to become an independent and confident learner.
Fun Fact
Who is Lord Acton?
Lord John Emerich Edward Dahlberg Acton (1834-1902) was a Victorian scholar of Freedom who saw liberty not as a license, but as the freedom to do what was right. He was suspicious of power for the sake of power, which led to his most famous quote: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." At the Acton Academy, we celebrate his defense of economic, political and religious freedom.