How is Ascent Academy affiliated with Acton Academy?
Ascent Academy is part of the network of over 100 Acton Academies around the world. We follow the same Learning Design (curriculum) and learning model that Samantha and Janita helped create at the original Acton Academy campus.
Why do you have mixed-age classrooms instead of groupings by grades?
Children learn best when working with those younger and older than themselves rather than split up into groups based solely on age. In addition to individualized curriculum, all ages of students work together in groups. Mixed aged classrooms help to foster independence and support social and emotional growth.
We have two studios:
Spark (Lower Elementary) for ages 4-6 and Discovery (Upper Elementary) for ages 7-11
How long is Ascent Academy in session each year and what is the school calendar?
We operate on an 11 month calendar but our flexible program allows families to travel together throughout the year, without sacrificing any learning.
Is Ascent Academy a Montessori school?
We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy, but we are not a Montessori school. Our Spark Studio incorporates the familiar Montessori Work Cycle, guiding practices and tools, as well as a robust, outdoor loose-parts play cycle. The Discovery Studio, while embracing Montessori principles, also utilizes the latest interactive technologies, hands-on projects and the Socratic Method for discussions.
Is Ascent a religious school?
While we expose children to the importance of mindful spirituality, we do not promote any one religion.
What do you mean by “a Hero’s Journey”?
We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and a series of trials and tests that must be faced with integrity and purpose in order to live a satisfying and fulfilled life. Our mission is to prepare your child for his or her special journey.
Here is a quick reference on the Hero’s Journey.
Does Ascent Academy serve special needs children?
We have seen young heroes with various special needs succeed in this environment, however we are not trained to offer the resources for those needing additional support.
What do you mean by “every child can change the world?”
A Hero’s Calling = Individual Passion + A Need in the World
We believe that each of our heroes will find a calling by discovering their passions and gifts, then finding a way to use them to serve others and fulfill a need.
What do you mean by a learner-driven classroom?
At Ascent Academy we believe in learning to be and learning to do. An important part of this is encouraging young people to take responsibility for their own behavior and hold those around them to a high standard. When something isn’t working, we want our students to work together to solve the problem, not look for an adult to solve it for them. This creates a sense of independence and confidence that will serve them well in all areas of life.
Is Ascent Academy accredited?
Yes the school is accredited through the International Association of Learner Driven Schools.
How do you use technology in the classroom without students having too much screen time?
In Discovery, we believe in the power of balance. Using the incredible, self-paced eLearning tools now available, we are able to provide the rigor needed for learning math, vocabulary, reading comprehension and spelling in about 90 minutes each day, while freeing up the rest of the day for engaging, project-based learning, the arts, outdoor education, service learning and other studio challenges. The two types of experiences are highly complementary.
In Spark, instead of using technology, learners use Montessori tools (hands on manipulatives), as well as large and small loose-parts outdoors, for their learning and exploration.
Don’t see your question?
Don’t worry! Just send us your questions to info@ascentacton.org
We enjoyed the opportunity to see the launch and are so grateful to be a part of this community.
— Parent