Learning is not just teaching children to the standards. It is a process, a series of experiences that lead to the great “aha!” moments of life. Interestingly, when a sample of adults was asked if they loved learning in school, most answered that the worry of getting the answer right and doing what the teacher expected (and later passing a test) took the joy out of learning. Many said that they learned to love learning by exploring things on their own at home, outdoors, or later when they got to college. Children at Acton Academy will experience genuine learning and will not be taught to the test like many of their peers. We nurture a child’s love of learning by expanding on his or her own inquisitive nature. We know that teaching means much more than lessons and standards. We’re responsible for creating an environment of support that allows children to develop their own ideas, express their feelings, take risks, make choices, and most of all, grow to be strong, thinking individuals. At Acton Academy Fort Worth, we use the latest in educational technology for self-paced mastery of reading, writing and math skills. Deep Socratic discussions take place about heroes, history, and self-governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write and speak. Hands-on project based Quests are used to master the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world. The children create and market a business to the community each year. Volunteerism is a critical component to weekly activities. Children are encouraged to spend time outdoors cultivating the organic garden and playing with friends in the playground. At Acton Academy we strongly believe that children should enjoy learning art and music which is why we incorporate these subjects weekly.