Our Vision At Acton ELI
As a collective, we envision a different way of learning and being for our own children and our communities. We know from experience how much richer learning and connecting can be when you’re immersed in it with all of your senses and all of your heart. We’re so excited to bring this to the families on the East End of Long Island.
Turning Learning Upside Down
We believe that learning to do, learning to be, and learning to learn are more important than memorization. So in our studio walls, you’ll find engaged learners excited about tackling hands-on projects, having Socratic discussions, and learning to work together. You won’t find these learners stuck listening to a lecture, cramming for tests, or spending their afternoons doing homework.
The cornerstones of learning at Acton ELI:
- Young people doing challenging work at their own pace
- Collaborating with their fellow learners on real-world projects
- Focusing on effort and mastery
- Sharing learning in a tightly bound community
- Using the latest technology to master reading, writing and math
The Hero’s Journey
At Acton Academy, the Hero’s Journey is a central metaphor that frames each learner’s educational experience. Learners embark on their unique paths of self-discovery, overcoming challenges, setting personal goals, and developing the courage to pursue their passions. This journey empowers them to grow into resilient, independent thinkers ready to make a difference in the world.
- Call to Adventure: Hero encounters new challenges and opportunities
- Crossing the Threshold: Hero steps out of their comfort zone
- Trials and Challenges: Hero faces obstacles, building resilience
- Mentorship and Guidance: Hero receives support from guides and peers
- Transformation and Growth: Hero develops new skills and knowledge
- Achievement and Mastery: Hero achieves goals and gains confidence
- Return and Contribution: Hero shares insights and skills with the community
Disruptive Education At Acton
Empowering learners with self-directed learning, critical thinking, and real-world skills, challenging traditional education norms.
Resources
To dive even more deeply into the Acton Academy model, the mindset behind the movement, and more, start here!
Courage To Grow
“Courage to Grow” by Laura Sandefer tells the story of founding Acton Academy. It highlights the challenges and triumphs of creating a learner-driven school that empowers students to take charge of their education. The book serves as both a manifesto for educational innovation and a guide for inspiring a love of learning in children.
Unschooling
“Unschooling Rules” by Clark Aldrich provides 55 insights and guidelines on how to reimagine education through the principles of unschooling. The book challenges traditional education models, promoting a learner-centered approach where curiosity and real-world experiences drive learning. It serves as a concise, practical guide for parents and educators looking to embrace more flexible and personalized educational methods.
The One World School House
“The One World Schoolhouse” by Salman Khan reimagines education for the 21st century. Drawing from his experience founding Khan Academy, Khan advocates for a more personalized, student-centered approach, emphasizing mastery over memorization and lifelong learning.
Our Guides
Meet the mentors and guides of Acton ELI who help each learner and hero along their journey.
Andrea (Andie) Libutti
Owner/Head of School
Janel Duffy
Upper Elementary Guide
Cathy Orofino
Spark Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
We are growing! We currently have a Spark Studio, ages 5-8, which we are enrolling for. Our plan is to open the upper elementary (ages 8-11) in January 2025.
Our academic year starts September 11, 2024 and runs through June 19th, 2025.
While we don’t currently offer a middle school or high school program with Acton ELI (yet!), all of the courses and curriculum your learner works through here will prepare them for any future program they want to graduate or get a certificate from.
We’ve moved to a new space, our address is: 269 Main Road Aquebogue, NY 11931. Our new space is occupying the classroom section of the church. We’ll have our own playground, access to some great grassy fields, and right across the street from a local farm! We’re located on the beautiful North Fork of Long Island, 10 minutes from the Long Island Expressway.
Drop off is between 8:15 and 8:30am, and pick up is between 2:45 and 3:00pm. (Aftercare may be provided depending on the need/availability of staff).
We won’t start taking applications for the Spark studio until your child is at least 4 years old. We do share a school building with a toddler & pre-k program, which will equip even the littlest learner for life at Acton ELI