Acton Academy


Acton Academy is a network of private, learner-driven schools and microschools in the United States and abroad. As of 2021, there are more than 250 affiliate schools in 31 states and 25 countries. It is accredited through the International Association of Learner Driven Schools. Projects can include creating a startup business, designing a tidepool habitat, playing a musical instrument, producing a mosaic, programming a robot, and similar hands-on projects. Adults at Acton serve as guides rather than traditional teachers and the program incorporates Socratic discussions, goal-setting, and online learning.

History

In 2009, Laura Sandefer and Jeff Sandefer founded Acton Academy. The school focused on the theme of the Hero's Journey and teaching content through online based-tools, Socratic discussion, peer-to-peer mentorship and face-to-face projects the school calls "quests." Since its founding, the network has experienced significant growth and growth accelerated following the response to COVID-19.

Presence in the United States

As of 2021, there are 250 affiliate schools in 31 states and 25 countries. Each school typically serves 25 or fewer learners and caters to a specific age range. For example, an Acton Academy in Sioux Falls is a one room schoolhouse that serves elementary age students and has a maximum capacity of 18 to 22 learners.
Due to their size and model, Acton Academies sometimes face regulatory challenges. In 2021, an Acton Academy location opened in Fort Lauderdale with four students and had the operation approved by the city. Shortly after opening, city officials determined that the building was zoned as a "learning center" rather than a school, requiring additional fixtures to remain open, causing the school to close its physical location and shift to remote instruction. Following this incident, Florida passed a law allowing private schools to use existing spaces from museums to movie theaters without seeking local government approval.
In states with school choice voucher systems, Acton Academies generally qualify.