Learning at Big Sky, an Acton Academy

We believe that learning to be, learning to learn, and learning to do are more important than learning to know.

21st Century Learning

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    The latest in educational technology for self paced mastery of reading, writing and math skills.

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    Hands-on project based quests to master the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world.

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    Deep Socratic discussions about heroes, history and self-governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write and speak.

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    Professional tools for art, engineering, tech and storytelling in place of worksheets and busy work.

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    Written promises and covenants that form a tightly bound community of individuals learning to form authentic friendships and honestly resolve interpersonal problems.

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Learn to Learn

Socratic Discussions and self paced challenges equip young heroes to be independent lifelong learners.

Learn to Do

Hands-on Quests for Science, Entrepreneurship, and the Arts prepare children for Apprenticeships and real-world challenges.

Learn to Be

The Hero’s Journey, relational covenants and real world consequences transform difficult decisions into virtuous habits.

Measuring Mastery

Young heroes celebrate the mastery of tools, skills, and character by earning badges and taking part in public exhibitions.

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    Learners use badges to track academic progress in Core Skills like reading, writing, math and spelling and character development in Servant Leader Badges.

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    Young heroes deliver public exhibitions of their work at the end of each four to six week sprint.

  • 3

    Self-management and self-governance skills are measured by peer reviews at the end of each session.

Acton School Guide

Our Educational Philosophy

We believe clear thinking leads to good decisions, good decisions lead to the right habits, the right habits forge character, and character determines destiny.