Acton Academy Essex County
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About oUR Studios

Our Mixed-Aged Studios

Our K-12 microschool is organized in three studios:  Sparks, Elementary, and Middle School/Launchpad.  Each studio is designed with the developmental considerations of different age groups - with the highest age levels getting the most amount of freedom and responsibility.  Students move up to the next studio once they have met the requirements for 'graduation' from their current studio.  

Sparks Studio: Ages 5-7

Inspired by Montessori principles, the Spark Studio emphasizes hands-on projects and outdoor adventures to ignite curiosity and foster independence. Our primary goal in this studio is to develop a love of learning. Using the Waseca reading and writing program, the Montessori math board, and other hands-on tools, we begin building the foundations of core skills in this studio. This studio also spends 2 hours a day in outdoor unstructured play, to help develop soft skills like emotional regulation, cooperation, and conflict resolution.

Learning Through Play

Learning Through Play

Learning Through Play

Here, learning feels like play—because that’s how young children learn best!  Inspired by Montessori principles, we create a hands-on environment where curiosity leads the way, and little hands stay busy exploring, building, and discovering. With open-ended materials and real-world activities, children develop independence, problem-solving skills, and a deep love of learning from the start.

Social Skills

Learning Through Play

Learning Through Play

Friendships and teamwork are just as important as ABCs and 123s. In this studio, Sparks learn to share, collaborate, and navigate challenges with kindness and confidence. Through group activities and thought-provoking daily discussions, they practice empathy, communication, and conflict resolution—skills that will serve them for life.

Outdoor Free Play

Learning Through Play

Outdoor Free Play

Fresh air, movement, and adventure are essential for young minds and bodies. Every day, Sparks have 2 hours of time for unstructured outdoor play, where they climb, run, dig, and explore—developing physical coordination, creativity, and resilience. When children are free to play, they gain confidence, improve well-being, take healthy risks, and build a deep connection with nature.

Elementary Studio: Ages 7-11

In this studio, learners continue to foster a deep love of learning and begin to focus on working well with others through regular group work. Mornings are spent doing self-paced core skills like math and reading using highly reputable online curricula that focuses on ensuring students master a topic before moving on, while afternoons are reserved for exploratory group projects, hands-on experiments and play. Learners set and track personal goals, engage in group projects, and participate in daily Socratic discussions, fostering critical thinking and collaboration. Twice a week, this studio joins the Sparks for 2 hours of outdoor unstructured play.

Goal-Setting

Group Projects

Goal-Setting

In the Elementary Studio, young learners set their own goals, track their progress, and celebrate their achievements—building confidence and independence along the way. By taking ownership of their learning, they develop a strong work ethic, resilience, and the ability to push through challenges with a growth mindset.

Quests

Group Projects

Goal-Setting

Through hands-on Quests, students explore exciting real-world challenges—launching businesses, designing inventions, or solving science mysteries. Each Quest helps children discover their passion, calling, and strengths while making learning an adventure!  On Mondays & Fridays, the ES joins the Sparks for 2 hours of outdoor play.

Group Projects

Group Projects

Group Projects

Collaboration is key in the Elementary Studio, where students work together on engaging group projects that encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership. By solving problems and creating together, they learn to listen, compromise, and contribute to a shared vision—essential skills for success in life.

Middle SchooL Studio: Ages 12-14

The Middle School Studio challenges learners to work hard, tackle complex problems, and develop real-world skills. Students embark on apprenticeships, engage in rigorous projects, study under mentors, and participate in mature discussions, preparing them for future endeavors. In addition to a love of learning and working well with others, a new goal of this studio is academic excellence and rigor. MS students also engage in annual apprenticeships as this is when we ask students to begin developing real-world skills that will set them apart in their career journey.

Time Management

Discovering Your Purpose

Discovering Your Purpose

In the Middle School Studio, students take ownership of their schedules, learning to set goals, prioritize tasks, and manage their time effectively. With the freedom to choose how they work, they develop the self-discipline and responsibility needed for success in high school, college, and life.

Discovering Your Purpose

Discovering Your Purpose

Discovering Your Purpose

Middle school is a time of exploration, and at Acton, we encourage students to ask big questions: Who am I? What do I care about? How can I make a difference? Through hands-on projects and deep discussions, they uncover their passions, strengths, and a sense of purpose that fuels their learning.

Real-World Experiences

Discovering Your Purpose

Real-World Experiences

Why wait until adulthood to experience real-world work? At Acton, middle schoolers step beyond the classroom, securing apprenticeships with professionals in fields they’re curious about—gaining hands-on experience, valuable skills, and the confidence to shape their own future.

Launchpad Studio: Ages 15-18

Designed for high school students, the Launchpad Studio focuses on helping students discover their true calling, gaining mentors through interviews with industry experts, and preparing for real-world success. Learners gain valuable skills through extended apprenticeships and launch real startups or projects, culminating in a portfolio of real-world work that showcases their capabilities. This studio aims to equip students with the vision and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the world. More flexibility in this studio allows our students to pursue their individual career interests and goals at a deep level.

Finding a Calling

Internships & Job Experience

Internships & Job Experience

In Launch Pad, students don’t just explore different interests—they choose their calling and begin developing real expertise in their chosen field. Through hands-on projects, mentorship, and real-world experiences, they gain mastery, build a strong portfolio, and learn what it takes to excel in their chosen path. Whether they pursue college, entrepreneurship, or another option, they graduate with the skills, confidence, and direction to turn their passion into a meaningful career.

Internships & Job Experience

Internships & Job Experience

Internships & Job Experience

At Launch Pad, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Students spend much of their time gaining real-world experience through apprenticeships and internships, working alongside professionals in fields that interest them. These hands-on opportunities help them develop valuable skills, build confidence, and discover their passions in a way no textbook ever could.

Mentorship & Self-Advocacy

Internships & Job Experience

Mentorship & Self-Advocacy

Success isn’t just about knowledge—it’s about knowing how to navigate challenges and advocate for oneself. At Launch Pad, students learn how connect and build meaningful relationships with mentors in their field, practice professional communication, and learn how to seek out opportunities. These skills empower them to take charge of their future with confidence and purpose. 

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