Acton Academy SV
Maria Ferrari
Acton Academy SV Founder
Education without conformity
A letter from our Founder
Acton Academy Silicon Valley is an innovative learning environment, where individuality is not just embraced but celebrated. Our private school is designed around the belief that every child is a unique learner, and success doesn't require conformity. In our classrooms, we've leveled the playing field, dismantling the traditional formula of education that often leaves many learners feeling left behind. Here, your child doesn't have to change to succeed; they thrive by being exactly who they are. Success at Acton Academy is as diverse as the beautiful individuality of each learner we welcome.
THEIR WAY: THE ACTON PHILOSOPHY
Your child is the hero of their unique story.
At Acton Academy SV, we draw inspiration from the timeless power of the Hero's Journey - a narrative of deeply rooted in human experience.
But it’s more than good material for a superhero story. It's the kind of story ordinary individuals use to discover their unique strengths. For our learners, it’s the constant thread running through everything they do. Whether tackling challenging lessons or engaging in thoughtful discussions, our learners develop the heroic skills of resilience and perseverance, and learn that failure is a stepping stone on the way to success. At Acton Academy SV, learning isn’t the destination but rather a journey of limitless possibility.
WE ARE GUIDING TOMORROW’S LEADERS
A school designed for innovation
- Self-paced Progression Through Mastery
At Acton Academy SV, learners progress at their own pace, and only advance after demonstrating mastery of each concept. This helps build a deep and lasting foundation for all future learning. - Multi-disciplinary, Project-based Curriculum
Our curriculum is driven by hands-on projects, sparking curiosity and practical problem-solving. Through real-world applications, learners not only acquire knowledge but also develop the skills needed to tackle challenges in diverse contexts. Our multi-disciplinary projects encourage learners to connect ideas across various subjects, cultivating a comprehensive understanding of the world around them. - Portfolios & Exhibitions
Rather than traditional grades, we build comprehensive portfolios that showcase a learner's journey, projects, and achievements. Regular exhibitions provide opportunities for learners to present their work to their peers, parents and school community - No Homework
Learning at Acton Academy SV is concentrated within school hours. With no homework, learners have time for family, extracurriculars, and pursuing personal interests, allowing for a balanced and meaningful life outside of the classroom. - Socratic Guiding
At Acton Academy SV, our Guides are mentors, facilitating the learning process distinct from traditional teaching. They inspire curiosity, provide guidance, and foster a student-driven environment, empowering learners to actively take charge of their education. - Mixed-aged Learning Environment
In our mixed-aged Studios, learners collaborate across age groups. This dynamic environment mirrors real-world interactions and fosters mentorship, collaboration, and a sense of responsibility among learners.
UNLOCK YOUR HERO’S POTENTIAL
Explore the Studios of Acton Academy SV
PRESCHOOL
Nitty Gritty
Ages 2-5
A nurturing preschool program with flexible 2-day, 3-day, 5-day and half or full day options.
Read MoreNitty Gritty Studio provides flexible schedule options tailored to your child's needs. Choose from our 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day programs, available in half or full-day sessions.
Our preschool is thoughtfully crafted to support the developmental milestones of young learners. Here, in a nurturing and stimulating environment, we ignite curiosity and cultivate a deep-seated love for learning.
Stepping into Nitty Gritty Studio marks the beginning of a child's educational journey. Beyond a traditional preschool, it's a place where young minds flourish, laying the foundation for future academic achievements and a lifelong passion for learning.
Attend Admissions EventGrade K-1
Spark
Ages 5-7
Spark Studio ignites curiosity, creativity, skills through quests, discussions, and play-based learning, preparing for academic excellence.
Read MoreSpark Studio taps into the inherent love for learning, innate curiosity, and creativity within each learner. It provides an authentic, Montessori-inspired environment where learners engage in hands-on quests, age-appropriate Socratic discussions, team building challenges, and play-based learning. Within this environment, learners practice basic goal-setting and earn learning "badges." The Spark Studio lays the groundwork for reading, math, science, citizenship, and independent learning skills, preparing young individuals to excel in the Elementary Studio.
Attend Admissions EventGrade 2-5
Discovery
AGES 7-11
Elementary learners embrace hero's journey, mastering core skills, teamwork, quests, fostering growth mindset.
Read MoreThe Discovery Study is specifically designed for our Elementary-aged learners. Here, our learners accept their calling of a hero’s journey and embark on an adventure of learning and self-discovery. Through the mastery of foundational core skills, engaging introductory Socratic discussions, collaborative teamwork, and immersive real-world quests, our learners delve into the realms of arts, sciences, history, and the natural world. Integral to the Discovery Studio is a strong emphasis on character development, teaching decision-making skills crucial for a fulfilling life. Our lactively cultivate a growth mindset, perceiving failure as an opportunity for personal growth and development.
Attend Admissions EventGrade 6-8
Exploration
AGES 11-13
Read MoreIn Exploration, learners are propelled into a distinctive realm of challenges that foster self-discovery and growth. Featuring deeper Socratic conversations and an emphasis on practical knowledge application, young heroes cultivate clear thinking, effective decision-making, and the development of positive habits. Navigating freedom within boundaries, these heroes become adept decision-makers and form a close-knit community valuing authentic friendships and honest resolution of interpersonal issues. The Exploration Studio empowers older students to seize control of their education, guiding them to learn, do, and be with purpose, strength, and meaning, cultivating kind, resilient, resourceful, and creative young minds prepared for the challenges of today's world. Within the Exploration Studio, learners engage in challenging real-world quests, push boundaries, and deepen their understanding of contemporary issues—a journey marked by growth and critical thinking.
Attend Admissions EventThriving every day
Inside the vibrant world of our learners
From the moment they step into the studio to the closing reflections, each day unfolds as a unique adventure for our learners. Our daily rhythm is carefully designed to foster curiosity, independence, and a love of learning through immersive exploration, collaboration, and self-discovery.
From engaging in Socratic discussions to hands-on projects and Quests, our young heroes are encouraged to embrace challenges that celebrate their individuality. You won’t find the buzzing energy within our mixed-aged studios in traditional classrooms. It’s what happens when learners of all ages encounter real-world models and are given the unique opportunity to interact, experiment, and grow together.
QUESTING FOR MASTERY AND BEYOND
Acton’s approach to lifelong learning
Learn to do
Through hands-on projects and experiential learning, learners in our programs master essential problem-solving skills and cultivate the values of teamwork, hard work, and perseverance.
Learn to Learn
Moving away from traditional lectures, we present intellectual challenges and “Quests,” guiding learners to discover the skills, tools, and materials necessary to construct their own answers.
Learn to be
Stepping back to allow each learner to step up, we foster qualities essential to curious, independent, lifelong learners. These qualities include character, collaboration, and citizenship.
Learn to know
Our learners not only master the foundations of core academic subjects (Math, English, and Civics) but also engage in daily practices honing their language skills (listening, speaking, writing, and reading).