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Rethinking School

Your child's potential can't be measured by a report card.

 

Acton offers a modern blend of Montessori-inspired freedom, Socratic dialogue, and hands-on quests. Our learners don’t just absorb — they engage. Currently we follow the traditional school year beginning in September and ending the beginning of June. Classes are Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

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Our Promise to Families

 

Every family who joins Acton is taking a meaningful step — to embrace a new kind of education built on trust, growth, and the belief that every child is a hero in the making. We don’t see this as an enrollment. We see it as a partnership.


Here are four promises we make to every family who walks through our doors:

1. We Believe in Your Child’s Unique Potential

“Dare to be great. We are doing something that matters.”

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We believe your child has a gift that can change the world — and we promise to treat them that way.

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We will:

  • See every learner as a hero on a journey.

  • Design challenges that invite curiosity, independence, and purpose.

  • Work alongside you to nurture the character and confidence your child needs to thrive.

2. We Protect Freedom with Clear Boundaries

“You have a great deal of freedom, as long as you stay between these lines.”

 

We believe that freedom inspires growth — and boundaries protect that freedom.

 

We will:

  • Hold firm to studio promises that foster trust and responsibility.

  • Never shame, lecture, or manipulate — we model respect and accountability.

  • Let real consequences teach the lessons that stick for life.

3. We Measure What Matters Most

“Growth over grades. Progress over perfection.”

 

We believe every learner deserves to see their own growth clearly — and celebrate it.

 

We will:

  • Use learner dashboards, portfolios, and badges to track meaningful progress.

  • Share studio-wide surveys to learn how we can better serve families and learners.

  • Focus on what really matters: progress in independence, purpose, and joy.

4. We Walk This Journey Together

“You are not alone. We’re in this with you.”

 

We believe community changes everything.

 

We will:

  • Create spaces for connection — between parents, learners, and Guides.

  • Celebrate courage, character, and kindness at every turn.

  • Share stories, resources, and wins so you always feel part of something meaningful.

Additional Resources 

 

As you walk alongside your Acton Hero on this unique educational journey, it’s natural to encounter moments of uncertainty—especially in a learning environment so different from traditional schools. But you’re not alone. Laura Sandefer, co-founder of the original Acton Academy in Austin, shares thoughtful reflections, encouragement, and practical wisdom on her blog, Acton Academy Parents. It’s a valuable resource to support and inspire you as you grow with your learner on this shared hero’s journey.

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50 E Alamar Ave. Santa Barbara, CA, USA

Explore a new vision for education

one that honors your child’s potential, passion, and path.

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“Education is experience, and the essence of experience is self-reliance.”
— Merlyn, The Once and Future King

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"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." 
— Anaïs Nin

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"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I learn."
— Benjamin Franklin,

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© 2025 by Acton Academy Santa Barbara

 

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