Influences on the Acton model!

The Acton Academy network of schools was founded in 2009 by Jeff and Laura Sandefer in Austin, Texas. Jeff, an entrepreneur and educator, and Laura, a writer and education innovator, sought to create a learner-driven model that empowers students to take ownership of their education. Inspired by the principles of the Socratic method, project-based learning, and the Montessori philosophy, Acton Academy emphasizes self-paced learning, real-world problem-solving, and developing a strong sense of purpose.

The school originally started as an experiment for their children but quickly gained interest from other families. The model, which focuses on mastery-based learning, small multi-age classrooms, and the use of technology to facilitate personalized education, has since expanded into a global network of independent Acton Academies. Each location operates under a shared philosophy but maintains autonomy in implementation. The Acton model challenges traditional education by shifting the role of teachers to guides, fostering an environment where students take responsibility for their learning journey.

Many different influences come together to create this unique learning model including:

• Socrates—the namesake of the Socratic method. Socrates’ unwavering commitment to questioning assumptions and engaging in dialogue to reveal deeper truths perfectly aligns with the core of self-directed learning. His famous declaration, “The unexamined life is not worth living,” underscores the importance of reflection and awareness in our learning journeys.
  
  At Acton Academy, learners practice these principles every day through what we call “launches.” Our Guides embody the Socratic spirit by refraining from simply providing answers. Instead, they reflect choices and suggestions back to learners, encouraging them to explore resources and empower their own independent learning.
• Maria Montessori, a trailblazer in child-centered education. Her innovative methods emphasized independence, self-motivation, and respect for a child’s natural growth—core values that align perfectly with the Acton Academy approach.
  
  At Acton, we honor her legacy by creating spaces where students take charge of their learning, follow their passions, and grow through hands-on experiences.
• Sal Khan revolutionized education by making high-quality, self-paced learning accessible to millions. His belief in mastery learning—where students progress at their own pace, building a solid foundation before moving forward—aligns with Acton Academy’s approach.
  
  At Acton, we uphold this principle with clear goals and expectations that empower learners to move forward as they master each concept. This isn’t a “do whatever you want” approach—it’s a structured environment where students take ownership of their learning journey, gaining confidence and competence along the way.
• Other influences include: Sugata Mitra and his "Hole in the Wall" experiment, the One-Room Schoolhouse, project-based learning, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurial thinking.

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