Frequently Asked Questions

How is Acton Academy Pocatello affiliated with Acton Academy?

Acton Academy Pocatello is part of the network of over 300 Acton Academies around the world. We follow the same exact Learning Design (curriculum) and learning model that our owners helped create at the original Acton Academy campus.

What does 'learner-driven' mean?

It means heroes take ownership. Using Socratic discussions and mastery-based tools, students set their own goals, manage their time, and hold each other accountable for excellence.

I recognize Acton Academy Pocatello is different than my current school. How do I know if it's the right fit for us?

Acton Academy Pocatello is for families who are willing and ready to try something different. It is not for everyone. At Acton, we help delvelop critical thinking, accountability, and a strong character. If this is what you want for your child, it may be a fit.

Is this a Montessori school?

We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy but, we are not a Montessori school. We also use the latest interactive technologies, hands on projects and the Socratic Method for discussions.

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. Learn more here.

What is an independent learner?

Someone who can research questions, follow instructions, solve problems—admit that they don't know something and figure out a solution when they hit a roadblock without asking an adult for help — participate in discussions, and strive for mastery.

Why do you focus on teaching the "American Experiment"?

We believe in liberty and justice and the ideals of the American revolution as the cornerstones of civilization. In addition to experiential learning, we will study the American documents and the true meaning behind them, as we examine other cultures and forms of government.

What is your calendar and daily schedule?

Acton Academy Pocatello begins at 9:00 am each day (drop-off starting at 8:30 am) and finishes at 3:15 pm.

We operate on an 11-month calendar, but our flexible program allows families to travel together during the year, without sacrificing any learning.

The school calendar is based on a series of 5- to 6-week project sprints called "Quests", each with a theme – like Rockets, Robots, Medical Biology, or Detective Chemistry. Each Quest is a grand adventure, culmintating in a high-stakes public Exhibition for family and friends.

Seven 5- to 6-week sessions, followed by 1 to 2 weeks off to refuel and for holidays, make up the school year.

What grades do you offer?

Our Spark Studio (preschool) serves ages 4-7, and our Discovery Studio (elementary) serves ages 8-11.

Our goal is to work toward an Adventure Studio (Middle school) and Launchpad (HS). We are currently not offering those grades.

Is Acton Academy Pocatello a religious school?

We are a secular school open to Believers, Searchers and Non-Believers alike and expose children to the importance of mindful spirituality and stress the historical importance of Christianity to the development of Western Civilization.

Does Acton Academy Pocatello serve children with special needs?

We are not trained to serve children with serious learning disabilities but have been able to serve young heroes with dyslexia if they receive special training and believe that many minor learning disabilities are commonly misdiagnosed.

What do you mean by "every child can change the world"?

We believe each of our students will find a passion — something they love and have a gift to do. They will use this gift to serve others and fulfill a need they are passionate about in the world. This may be by becoming a shoe-shiner who tells stories and makes people's day just by doing his job with love and vigor; it may be by becoming a coach who sees the light in a child’s eyes and guides her to pursue a dream; it may be by becoming a father or mother who leads a family on a Hero's Journey; it may be becoming an entrepreneur or business leader guided by compassion and integrity; or it may be by becoming an artist or writer who brings beauty to people's lives.

How to Get Started

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