Our Mission
We believe each person who enters Acton ELI will find a calling that changes the world.
And they can have fun, make great connections, and work through challenges along the way.
Our Beliefs
We believe each learner who enters our doors is a genius with incredible gifts.
When young people are given the freedom to explore, connect, and sometimes even fail, they are equipped with the confidence and experience they need to do great things: within themselves, within their families, in their communities, and for the world.
We believe in learning to learn, learning to do, learning to be.
We believe in economic, political, and religious freedom.
Our Promise
Everyone who enters Acton ELI will:
Begin a Hero’s Journey of challenges and self-discovery
Discover their unique gifts and commit to life-long learning
Continue to be curious: about themselves and the world around them
Embrace the forging of a strong character
Our Approach
A Model Geared for the 21st Century
A learner-driven community with self-paced learning in reading, writing and math designed to foster excellence and mastery. Real-world hands-on learning through field trips, hero visits, and projects designed to develop relevant skills for the 21st Century. No assigned homework, teaching to the test, or final exams.
An Innovative Learning Environment
Mixed-age learning studios (vs. “grades”). Studio-level exhibitions, where learners can exhibit their portfolio of work. The opportunity for learners to form authentic friendships and to resolve interpersonal issues through the development of conflict resolution skills.
Embracing Nature, Mindfulness, and Community
Acton ELI learners:
- Spend time regularly exploring nature (in rain, shine, or snow!)
- Learn about and engage with their local community
- Incorporate different mindfulness tools and practices into their daily lives
Learning at Acton ELI
Learn to Learn
Socratic discussions and self-paced challenges equip our young heroes to be lifelong independent thinkers and learners.
Learn to Do
Hands-on quests in science, entrepreneurship, history, and the arts prepare our learners for real-world challenges.
Learn to Be
An intense focus on character development provides our learners with great freedom and responsibility.
