Acton Academy ANACORTES
Spark curiosity and joy.
SPARK STUDIO IS FOR LEARNERS AGES 4 - 7
We provide an environment that fosters academic, physical, and emotional independence through developmentally appropriate works inspired by Maria Montessori. The Spark Studio is designed to spark curiosity through hands-on experiences and play-based challenges, and ultimately to equip young learners for the next steps of their journey by embracing the Hero’s Journey philosophy.
The Spark Studio is designed to build the math, reading, self-regulatory, and social skills needed for success in the highly independent Acton Elementary Studio, or wherever their journey takes them next.
Our Spark heroes help establish the rules in their Studio and meet for weekly Town Hall meetings to identify, discuss, and vote on issues that affect them. They practice basic goal setting and complete challenges at their own pace to earn learning "badges" in math, reading, and citizenship. The rest of the time, they learn through exploration in a series of hands-on project Quests and present what they've discovered at an exhibition at the end of each Session.
GOALS OF SPARK STUDIO
Grow curiosity through hands-on projects and outdoor adventure Spark play
Explore mindfulness, natural interests, and have fun
Build the foundations of independent learning, reading, writing, communication, and math, and goal setting
Learn through play and hands-on exploration
Practice basic goal setting
Identify issues and vote on solutions
Move at his/her own pace in math and reading
Strengthen self-regulation
STUDIO DESIGN
A day in our studios is marked by creativity within constraints: large blocks of time for work and play with clear but broad guardrails, equipping young people to manage their time, set goals, and track progress. As learners demonstrate their readiness, they earn more freedom and responsibility.
In the Montessori inspired Spark Studio, mornings are spent in a traditional work cycle with afternoons spent outside engaged in intentional Spark play. In Discovery (elementary) and Adventure (middle school) Studio, mornings are reserved for Core Skills and afternoons are for hands-on Quest projects with integrated time to reflect, think deeply, and connect with peers.
Within each work block, learners choose from a broad range of work options based on their personal goals, passions, and commitments. Each day starts with a discussion to launch the day, and ends with time to reflect on the day.
Acton Academy Anacortes is a private school located in Skagit County for ages 4 - 7.
The goal is for our school to flourish and serve our community. We will accept older children the following years as the founding group grows. Our goal is to grow into a middle school, and continue to funnel learners to Launchpad (Acton's apprenticeship model high school).
