Where Joyful Curiosity Sparks Lifelong Learning
Acton Academy Columbus is an innovative, project-based, learner-driven school where learners grow through meaningful challenges and caring support on a journey toward discovering a calling that will change the world.
Empower your child to pursue their dreams and ignite a lifelong passion for learning.
Be part of something different. Something bold.
At Acton, learners take ownership, work hard, and grow academically and personally with guidance.
School for the 21st Century
Acton Academy is a school built for self-driven learners—children who are ready for more challenge, more independence, and more real-world opportunities.
In this new age, agency matters more than memorization. Our learners set goals, drive their own progress, make decisions, solve problems, and build character through meaningful work and challenges.
AI is here. This is the Age of Agency—and learners who own their journey will shape the future.
How Acton Builds Future-Ready, Self-Driven Learners in the 21st Century
Student-Centered Education
Self-Paced Learning
Focused on Real World Challenges
Guided Learning, Not Taught
Learning beyond the classroom
Acton Academy students prepare for real-world challenges rather than classroom exams.
Field Trips & Real-World Adventures
Outdoor Learning / Nature Exploration
Guest Speakers / Community Experts
Community Projects & Service Learning
Apprenticeships & Job Shadowing
Entrepreneurial Experiences & Market Days
“We had escaped the trap of obsessing about homework, PTA policies, and grades on tests. Like freeing birds from cages, we were loosening our grip on our children and they were learning to fly.”
Education for the Real World
At Acton, education goes beyond tests and worksheets. Learners build real skills through clear goals, meaningful work, and daily practice in thinking, doing, and becoming.
Learn to Learn
Self-paced core skills, goal setting, and reflection help learners understand how they learn best and take ownership of their growth.
Learn to Do
Quests, projects, and apprenticeships invite learners to solve real problems, work in teams, and create work they’re proud to share.
Learn to Be
Daily choices, studio contracts, and peer feedback help Eagles practice courage, kindness, responsibility, and integrity in community.
Inspired by the Best in Child-Led Education
Our model is inspired by three transformational child-led philosophies that nurture independence, creativity, and a deep joy for learning.
Montessori
Reggio
Waldorf
Skills for the 21st Century
The 3 R’s built the schools of the past. The 4 C’s build the leaders of the future.
When practiced deeply, they develop a 5th: Confidence.
Confidence
I trust myself to face new challenges
Critical Thinking
I can figure things out
Collaboration
I can work with others
Creativity
I can make something original
Communication
I can express and defend ideas
Our Studios
Multi-age studios where learners grow through meaningful challenge, independence, and real-world work.
Spark Studio
Montessori, Reggio, Waldorf-inspired early years studio where independence, wonder, and joyful learning begin.
Growth Studio
Elementary studio focused on core skills, character, and building the habits for self-driven learning.
Discovery Studio
Upper elementary studio where learners take on deeper Quests, ownership, and real-world challenges.
Adventure Studio
Middle school studio blending joy and rigor through apprenticeships, Socratic discussions, and real work.
Launchpad Studio
High school studio for purposeful, independent learners ready to design their launch into the real world.
“If the purpose of education is to score well on a test, we’ve lost sight of the real reason for learning.”
Learning in Action
Exploring Education Blog
Insights, Ideas, and Innovations
Our Community
Frequent visitors, strong local ties, and a commitment to meaningful community service
IALDS Accreditation
Acton Academy Columbus is an independent private school in Dublin, OH. We are accredited by the The International Association of Learner Driven Schools (IALDS). IALDS is an accrediting entity and organization that is focused on the learner-driven communities.
Ready to Begin the Journey?
If you’re looking for a school that treats your child as a hero on a unique journey—not a number in a system—we’d love to meet your family.