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Frequently Asked Questions

How is Acton Academy different?

Acton Academy Bucharest is fundamentally different from traditional schools. There are no bells and no lectures. Learners are in control of their own learning and empowered to take charge of their own educational journey. Specifically:

  • Learner-driven, self-paced learning;
  • No teacher as an authority figure;
  • Real-world projects and apprenticeships;
  • Multi-age/ grade classes;
  • Learner’s self-governance;
  • Exploration and assessment of skill levels, learning styles, aptitudes, personality traits, and interests;
  • Guides rather than teachers;
  • Socratic discussions rather than lectures;
  • Mastery learning and portfolios of achievements rather than grades.
Acton Academy Bucharest 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.
Yes, the school is accredited through the International Association of Learner-Driven Schools. We are recognized in Romania by ARACIP with the authorization to operate as an international school.

We offer mixed age learning environments (studios) which currently cover USA grades PreK through 9th Grade. We will extend through High School in 2025.

  • Spark – Ages 4 to 6
  • Discovery – Ages 6 to 8
  • Adventure – Ages 8 to 10
  • Journey – Ages 11 to 14
  • Launchpad (coming soon!) – Ages 14 to 18
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.
Our calendar start in September and ends in July the following year. Each day begins at 9:00 am (drop-off starting at 8:30 am) and ends between 2-3pm (depending on the studio). Additionally, we offer an optional afternoon program from 3-4pm.

Technology is a useful tool and we are excited for our learners to learn how to use computers to access information, communicate effectively, and learn independently. Each studio has a Tech Use Policy ensures technology tools are used appropriately for their age-group.

That said, you and your Eagle are empowered to plan non-tech alternatives for Core Skills work with the only requirement being that mastery checks are done via the online platform. Feel free to talk with us about it, if it’s a major concern.

Spark Studio (Pre-K):

Our Spark studio will be (almost) entirely tech free. We will be utilizing a Montessori approach along with incorporating the latest play-based, outdoor approaches like Anji Play, Tinkergarten and more!

Discovery Studio (Lower Elementary):

Our learners start use their personal Chromebooks during some of their morning Core Skills time and for portions of their afternoon projects, which can typically add up to anywhere from 30min – 1.5 hours per day.

Adventure Studio (Upper Elementary):

Our students use their personal Chromebooks during some of their morning Core Skills time and for portions of their afternoon projects, which can typically add up to anywhere from 1.5 – 3 hours per day.

Journey Studio (Middle School):

Our students use their personal Chromebooks during most of their morning Core Skills time and for much of their afternoon projects. We do not track or limit screen time in this age group as they confidently self-manage this aspect at this age.

In Laura’s words (Acton Academy co-founder): “First of all, be assured of one thing: you are completely qualified to assess your child’s intellectual and moral growth. No teacher certification or education degree necessary. You are smart. You are experienced. You know your child better than anyone in the universe.”

We measure progress and feedback in a variety of ways. There are also studio systems to measure effort, character, and excellence.

We measure learner progress in several different ways:

  • Learners set Daily, Weekly, and Session goals with support of their peers & guide
  • We utilize robust real-time data for each of our online learning tools. At any given time both parents and Guides can find out exactly what your child is learning. It easily allows us to track progress, identify areas of struggle and close any learning gaps.
  • The web-based programs don’t allow the learner to move on to the next skill until it has been mastered.
  • Each session we have an Exhibition of Learning where each learner showcases their work together with their studio. We can measure their growth in things such as Writer’s Workshops, and Quest projects, etc.
  • Though we never “teach to the test”, standardized tests are given twice a year to ensure comprehensive progress.


RESULTS: Though ever learner is different, it is not uncommon for students attending Acton Academy schools to eventually progress 2-3 grade levels above students their age.

We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy, but, we are not a Montessori program. We also use the latest interactive technologies, hands-on projects, and the Socratic Method for discussions.

There are no on stage teachers or teacher-as-authority-figure at Acton.

Eagles have access to all the great teachers in the world, from Sal Khan to Richard Feynman to a Youtube video to the squad mate sitting beside them.

It all depends on how you define the role of teacher.

To find out more, click here.

In the Socratic Method, the ‘adult figure’ serves as a guide, setting up scenarios and asking questions to stimulate critical thinking and independent learning. We believe that through discussing and actively making arguments to support their beliefs, children gain a better understanding of a topic compared to passively taking notes during a lecture.
Acton Academy is a non-sectarian learning environment. We value and respect each person’s beliefs. We explore the importance various religions have played throughout history but we do not offer religious education.
Someone who can research questions, follow instructions, 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 – participate in discussions, and strive for mastery.
We believe each of our students will find a passion — something they love and have a gift to do. They will use this gift to serve others and fulfill a need they are passionate about in the world. This may be by becoming a shoe-shiner who tells stories and makes people’s day just by doing his job with love and vigor; it may be by becoming a coach who sees the light in a child’s eyes and guides her to pursue a dream; it may be by becoming a father or mother who leads a family on a Hero’s Journey; it may be becoming an entrepreneur or business leader guided by compassion and integrity; or it may be by becoming an artist or writer who brings beauty to people’s lives.

All of the electronics we use on-campus are to enhance education and are not for entertainment outside of special designated times (e.g. Fun Friday voted activities). We view electronics as “tools not toys” while at school.

 

For these reasons, phones and smartwatches are not permitted to be used during school hours. Should you need to urgently reach your child, you will be able to contact us via phone or our communication app. Learners can speak with any adult on-campus for help if they would like to call home.

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.