ABOUT US

ABOUT US

At Acton Academy Northwest Austin, we’re redefining what education can be. Forget rigid classrooms and standardized tests—our learner-driven studios are where kids embrace curiosity, ask big questions, and take the lead in their learning journey. With a blend of entrepreneurial thinking, collaborative projects, and 21st-century skills, we equip students to face the world with confidence and purpose.


We’re not just a school; we’re part of a movement. A place where families come together to create something extraordinary: a future full of creators, problem solvers, and empathetic leaders. From our mastery-based curriculum to our mixed-age studios, everything we do is designed to spark a love of learning and empower young heroes to change the world. At Acton Academy, we don’t just prepare kids for the future—we prepare them to create it.

OUR PROMISE TO LEARNERS

Our learners will:

  • Learn to be curious, independent, and lifelong learners
  • Develop a deep respect for economic, political, and religious freedoms.
  • Cherish the arts, wonders of the physical world and mysteries of life.
  • Discover their most precious gifts and learner to use them to solve difficult problems.
  • Begin their own Hero's Journey

GET YOUR SCHOOL INFO KIT TODAY!

Your child’s education doesn’t have to fit into a box. At Acton Academy Northwest Austin, learners are empowered to lead their own learning adventure—fueled by curiosity, creativity, and nature. Ready to reimagine what school can be? Grab your free Info Kit and start the journey today!

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A NEW MODEL FOR MODERN LEARNERS

Unlock your child's potential with a curriculum designed to inspire curiosity, instill confidence, and foster a lifelong passion for learning

Self-Paced Progression

What does it mean?

Self-paced progression allows each learner to advance through the curriculum at their own speed, mastering each concept before moving on to the next.

Why is it important?

It ensures that learners fully understand and internalize each concept before progressing, leading to a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the material.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner is not rushed through the curriculum or arbitrary delayed, but instead has the time and flexibility to truly grasp each concept. This promotes greater retention and long-term understanding. This approach also ingrains a sense of autonomy and responsibility for their own learning journey.

Project-Based Curriculum

What does it mean?

The curriculum includes hands-on projects that require critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

Why is it important?

Project-based learning encourages students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts, fostering an experiential understanding of concepts.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner gains practical skills and experiences that are directly applicable to real-life situations, preparing them for future challenges and careers.

Portfolios + Exhibitions

What does it mean?

Instead of receiving traditional grades, students deliver regular exhibitions of their work and create portfolios to showcase their learning.

Why is it important?

Portfolios and exhibitions are holistic assessments of a learner’s a progress, focusing on mastery and growth rather than letter grades.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner develops a strong sense of accomplishment and self-awareness as they see tangible evidence of their progress and growth over time.

Multi-Disciplinary Projects

What does it mean?

Students work on projects that integrate multiple subject areas, allowing for a more interconnected and holistic learning experience.

Why is it important?

Multi-disciplinary projects mirror real-world challenges and help students see the interconnectedness of different fields of study.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner develops a more comprehensive understanding of complex topics, as they learn to apply knowledge and skills from various disciplines to solve problems.

No Homework

What does it mean?

There is no traditional homework assigned at Acton Academy, allowing students to have more time for self-directed learning and exploration.

Why is it important?

Eliminating assigned homework reduces stress and burnout, allowing students to focus on meaningful learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner has more time for activities they are passionate about (including the subjects they are learning in school!), fostering a love for learning and a sense of balance in their lives.

Guides, Not Teachers

What does it mean?

Instead of traditional teaching, Guides at Acton Academy facilitate learning by providing resources and tools, and asking questions that guide students on their learning journeys.

Why is it important?

This approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning and develop critical thinking skills.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner develops independence, self-confidence, and a lifelong love for learning, as they are encouraged to explore and discover knowledge on their own.

Mixed-Age Studios

What does it mean?

Students of different ages learn together in the same environment, encouraging collaboration, mentorship, and a sense of community.

Why is it important?

This environment reflects real-world dynamics and allows for personalized learning experiences.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner learns to appreciate diversity, develops empathy, and learns from peers of different ages, enhancing their social and emotional intelligence.

Small Class Sizes

What does it mean?

Acton Academy maintains small classroom sizes to ensure personalized attention and foster meaningful relationships between students and Guides.

Why is it important?

Small class sizes allow for individualized instruction and a more focused learning environment.

How does this benefit students?

Your learner receives personalized support, feedback, and guidance, maximizing their learning potential and academic growth.

WHAT IS A HERO'S JOURNEY?

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How is Acton Academy Northwest Austin different?

Acton Academy NWA is fundamentally different from traditional schools. No bells ring, and there are no lectures. Students are in control of their own learning.


Key Ways We Are Different:

  • Student-driven, self-paced learning

  • Real-world projects and apprenticeships

  • Multi-age/grade classes

  • Student 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 student portfolios of achievements rather than grades

  • No homework. No teaching to the test​

Is Acton Academy NWA a Montessori School?

We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy for our younger studio but we are not a Montessori school. We have applied the best of Montessori methods: mixed-age classrooms, student-directed meaningful work, large blocks of work time, learning through “discovery,” and freedom of movement in the classroom. We believe it is possible to surpass this method by adding the following components:  project-based learning, the Socratic Method of discussion and the latest in educational game-based software.

Is Acton Academy NWA a religious school?

While we expose learners to the importance of mindfulness, Acton Academy NWA 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 promote any one religion.

Does Acton Academy NWA serve special needs learners?

AANWA's flexible approach to learning is a great fit for many kids who need something different than the traditional school environment. Students who have trouble sitting still through a standard school day can sometimes flourish in our classroom, which provides space for breaks, comfortable and flexible seating, and room for individual self-regulation.

However, schools that have adopted this learning model have noticed areas that provide challenges for the special needs student.  Because this educational model is designed with curriculum that relies on independent learning and dynamic group projects along with an environment that can be very stimulating, students that struggle with cooperation, self-regulation, and sensory issues may have special challenges in our classroom. We are simply not equipped to serve children with some learning disabilities in Studio.

Are you accredited?

Yes.  The Texas Education Agency recognizes two private school accreditation organizations - TEPSAC and IALDS.  We are accredited through the IALDS.

What is the vision for the school in the future?

At this time, we are in the process of finalizing our middle school (ages 11-14) and high school (ages 14-18) options, as our older students progress through the program. Our own children are ages eleven and eight, and we are committed to ensuring that they and our community will have access to this type of schooling for their entire educational journey!

What can I do at home to get my child ready for Acton Academy NWA? Do you have a Pre-K option?

Everyone develops at their own pace, so fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder in the world around them, making a habit of working letters and numbers into everyday conversation, and reading with them daily is often all they need...the rest is just, well...time and patience!


Learn more, reach out, or begin your audition today!

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SCHEDULE A CALL

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SCHEDULE A TOUR

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APPLICATION PROCESS

Ready to take the next step?  Learn more about our simple, thoughtful application process and start your journey toward joining our community of lifelong learners.

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