We’re not trying to do school better—we’re doing something different. At Acton, young learners build real-world skills, set their own goals, and work at a customized pace. That means less time sitting still and more time exploring, discussing, building, solving, and leading. It’s not for everyone—but for the right families, it’s a game-changer.

Our curriculum combines the best of tradition and innovation:

• Socratic discussions that sharpen thinking
• Mastery-based reading, writing, and math
• Hands-on science, history, and fine arts projects
• Daily movement and physical development
• Character growth and personal goal-setting

We use The Story of the World as the spine of our history curriculum—brought to life through engaging discussion and projects, not dry memorization.

While we don’t follow Texas state standards exactly, our learners consistently exceed them. We are fully accredited by the International Association of Learner Driven Schools (IALDS), one of two accrediting bodies recognized by the Texas Education Agency.

In traditional schools, learning is often measured by worksheets, report cards, and test scores. But those don’t always show what your child actually understands—or who they’re becoming.

At Acton Lakewood, learners must prove they’ve mastered a skill before they move on. We track progress through clear milestones, peer feedback, real-world work, and public exhibitions of learning. You see what they’re learning not just on paper—but in action.

Elementary learners bring home a simple, clear report every few weeks showing whether they’re on plan, behind plan, or ahead of plan for their annual SMART goals—goals they helped set at the start of the year in partnership with their Guide and parents.

For our youngest learners in Pre-K and Kinder, we send regular photo updates and messages so you can see your child’s growth in action, day by day.

This isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about building mastery, confidence, and ownership over their own learning journey.

Absolutely. Acton graduates transition confidently because they’ve learned how to think critically, manage time, and adapt. Whether they choose a traditional school or something more entrepreneurial, they know how to lead themselves—and that’s what matters most in the long run.

No nightly homework—on purpose. We believe in working hard during the day, then protecting after-school time for family, rest, and play.

We do offer annual standardized testing for learners age 7 and up. We don’t prep for it, and it doesn’t drive our day-to-day. It’s simply one more way to check in on progress and help learners build test-taking confidence. Most score 2–4 grade levels above their age in core subjects after a year at Acton.

We meet your child where they are and help them grow from there—whether they need extra time to master a challenge or are ready to move ahead quickly. Unlike traditional schools, we don’t put a ceiling on their progress.

In our pre-K and Kinder studios, Guides offer more advanced Montessori work or extra responsibilities when a child is ready.

Starting in elementary, your child will set SMART goals at their own pace, working closely with their Guide—and with your input and sign-off. That might mean slowing down to really master a tough concept, or flying through two years of math in one.

You’ll receive simple, clear updates every few weeks so you always know how your child is doing.

Each day at Acton Lakewood is intentionally designed to combine structure with freedom—giving learners time for deep focus, movement, hands-on projects, and meaningful connection. The rhythm is steady, but never rigid.

Spark Studio (Pre-K and Kinder):

8:00 – Good Morning + Morning Launch
We start the day with a simple group time—food for thought + a question to spark curiosity and connection. It helps learners ease into the day with joy and focus.

8:30 – Montessori Work Cycle with snack option + integrated project-based learning
This is when learners dive deep into hands-on learning. With access to beautiful Montessori materials and open-ended invitations to explore, they build academic skills, independence, concentration, and confidence.
Instead of grades or worksheets, we share your child's growth through photos, stories, and thoughtful updates. You'll see their progress unfold in real-time—no guesswork required.

11:30 – Daily exercises + games
Every day before lunch, Spark learners complete a full-body exercise routine that's designed to develop large motor skills—like balance, coordination, and strength—while counting to 100. Afterward, they play games that include clear rules, winners, and losers. It's a fun, high-energy way to build sportsmanship, self-control, and the confidence that comes from mastering physical challenges.

12:00 – Lunch + cleanup
Learners bring their own lunch and handle it all themselves—warming up food if needed, and managing their space. It's a time to connect with friends over meaningful conversations, practice table manners, and enjoy a well-earned break. Afterward, everyone pitches in to clean up, take responsibility for their area, and contribute to the shared space. It's one more way they grow in independence and pride in their community.

12:45 – Outside Playtime (Open-Ended + Learner-Directed)
After a focused morning of purposeful work, Spark learners head outside for unstructured play—where the work looks different but is just as important. With loose parts like PVC pipes, sandbags, crates, and wooden blocks, they invent their own games, build imaginative worlds, and learn how to navigate complex social dynamics. This kind of high-quality, child-led play helps them develop creativity, resilience, collaboration, and the ability to jump into ambiguous situations with confidence.

2:15 – Snack option + studio maintenance (chores)
Even our youngest learners help tidy up their space at the end of each day. These small, consistent habits grow pride, responsibility, and a strong sense of belonging.

2:35 – Storytime + Landing (group reflection)
We close the day with a group moment to reflect—What was most fun today? What was challenging? What are you proud of? What are you looking forward to tomorrow? It builds emotional awareness and sets the tone for tomorrow.

3:00 – Pickup Outside

Elementary Studio:

8:00 – Morning greeting + exercises
We begin every day with a handshake, free time to settle in, and morning exercises—an intentional way to activate the body and brain for focused learning. It's part of how we help learners develop self-discipline, energy, and daily rhythm.

8:30 – Launch (group time to inspire, equip, or connect)
Each day kicks off with a focused group discussion designed to inspire, equip, or connect. The Guide offers a thought-provoking question, quote, or short story—something to spark curiosity or reflection. Then learners take it from there, responding thoughtfully and calling on each other to agree, disagree, or add new insights.
It's not about getting the "right" answer. It's about building the habits of listening, thinking clearly, speaking with courage, and starting the day with purpose.

8:45 – Independent goal setting + free writing + Core Skills (like math and reading) + Goal Reflection
Every day, learners set their own goals based on their personal badge plan. It's how they learn to take ownership, plan their time, and stay focused—skills that matter in school and life. Also, they track their own progress and reflect on it regularly. Whether they're behind plan, on plan, or ahead of plan, they learn to course-correct and celebrate milestones with honesty and confidence.

11:15 – Outdoor games + DEAR (Drop Everything and Read) + Lunch
This daily block weaves together leadership, focus, and independence. Learners take turns leading outdoor games that include winners and losers—then receive feedback from their peers on how clearly they explained the rules, how well they encouraged others, and how fairly they upheld the game's boundaries. After all that movement, they come inside, grab a book of their choice, and dive into quiet reading during DEAR (Drop Everything and Read). Then it's time for lunch—handled independently, including warming up their own food and cleaning up their area.
It's one of those times of day when you'll see self-management, personal responsibility, and joy–all in action.

12:50 – Quest Time (Project-Based Learning)
In the afternoons, learners dive into real-world challenges we call "Quests." These hands-on projects stretch over several weeks and give learners the chance to build, solve problems, and apply what they've been learning in reading, writing, math, and more.
Each Quest is built around a big question or theme—like launching a business, designing a museum, or exploring electricity. Along the way, learners collaborate in teams, complete meaningful tasks, and present their work publicly at the end of the session. It's one of the most energizing parts of the Acton experience, helping learners grow confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose.

2:35 – Studio maintenance (chores)
Learners take care of their own space—every day. This daily habit builds responsibility, pride in their environment, and the sense that their studio belongs to them.

2:50 – Landing (group reflection and planning for tomorrow)
Each day ends with a few quiet minutes to reflect, reset, and look ahead. It's a simple but powerful rhythm that helps learners internalize lessons, notice growth, and prepare for tomorrow.

3:00 – Pickup Outside

Optional After School Playclub:
From 3:00–5:45, enrolled families can opt into our After School Playclub—an extended care option focused on relaxed, open-ended play and social connection.

Whether learners are tackling a challenge, exploring a big question, or working toward a goal they set themselves, each day helps them grow in confidence, independence, and purpose.

M-F 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. We offer an optional After School Playclub from 3:00 to 5:45 p.m. for families who need a later pickup time. You can enroll for 3 or 5 days per week, and the cost is simply added to tuition. This gives learners a relaxed space for free play, connection, and winding down the day.

In the Elementary Studio, learners average less than 90 minutes per day of screen time—used only for personalized learning in math, reading, or for research. Everything else happens offline: books, journals, hands-on projects, Socratic discussions, outdoor play, and collaborative games. Screens are a tool, not a centerpiece.

Each day, learners bring their own lunch and snacks from home. They're welcome to use the kitchen, including the microwave, to warm up food if needed. We occasionally order pizza for the whole studio, and learners sometimes bring treats to share on their birthday. It’s simple, flexible, and learner-managed.

In our Pre-K/Kinder studio, we cap enrollment at 12 learners with 1 adult Guide. In Elementary, it’s typically 20 learners with 1 Guide. Our mixed-age environment is designed to help learners grow by learning from and leading each other. It’s not about one adult directing every moment—it’s about learners becoming self-directed, with the Guide there to support, challenge, and coach when it matters most.

We follow an 11-month school year, broken into six-week Sessions with breaks in between to rest and recharge. This rhythm helps learners stay energized, avoid burnout, and build momentum over time. It also gives families flexibility—because learning isn’t lost when you travel together. Our year-round schedule and mastery-based approach mean your child can keep growing, even if your calendar doesn’t follow the norm.

You can view our full Academic Calendar.

At Acton, we use the word “studio” instead of “classroom”—because what happens here goes beyond sitting at desks. A studio is a creative, focused, and purposeful space where learners are doing real work that matters. It’s where they set goals, solve problems, build things, collaborate, and grow—not just academically, but as leaders and teammates.

Acton Lakewood is a great fit for families who care deeply about both strong character and strong academics—and want their children to grow up with a sense of purpose, not just a résumé. Children who are curious, kind, respectful, and ready to take ownership of their learning thrive here. And the families who choose Acton tend to value growth over perfection, consistency over chaos, and long-term confidence over short-term gold stars.

We may not be the best fit for families who expect constant oversight, daily behavior reports, or rigid conformity. Our model is designed for learners to grow in independence, not rely on adult approval. If you’re looking for a small-school, big-experience environment—and you're ready to grow with your child—you’ll likely feel right at home here.

Every child grows at a different pace—and emotional and social growth are just as important to us as academic growth. In our small, tight-knit environment, children have daily opportunities to practice empathy, solve problems with peers, and build resilience—with support, not overprotection. Our Guides don’t jump in to fix every conflict or smooth every bump; instead, they coach learners through challenges and help them build real skills that will last a lifetime.

We’re not a therapeutic program, and we may not be the right fit for children who need significant behavioral or emotional support. But if your child is simply still learning how to manage big feelings, make friends, or navigate group dynamics, this is a great place to grow.

We use clear boundaries, consistent systems, and logical consequences. Learners co-create community promises and help uphold them—not out of fear, but because they care about their studio. Guides don’t scold or rescue; they coach learners to solve problems, reflect, and grow. We emphasize personal responsibility, ownership, and intrinsic motivation. A common phrase at Acton Lakewood is: Discipline equals freedom.

Making friends is a skill—and like any skill, it can be learned with practice and encouragement. At Acton, we create a culture where learners are guided to see each other’s strengths, practice inclusion, and grow as a team. From daily collaborative challenges to intentional team-building games, learners build connection through shared purpose and respectful interaction. Because we’re a small, mixed-age community, social circles are flexible—not cliquish. Over time, even reserved learners find their place in the group—not by changing who they are, but by being seen, heard, and valued.

We’re not a specialized program for learners with significant needs, but some children with ADHD, mild dyslexia, or other mild learning differences have thrived here—especially when they receive strong support at home. Our model encourages independence, collaboration, and self-direction, so it's best suited for learners who can manage choices, transitions, and the sensory energy of a dynamic environment. If you're wondering whether this is the right fit, we’re happy to talk with you and learn more about your child during the admissions process.

Confidence and resilience don’t come from constant praise—they come from doing hard things. At Acton, we design every day to gently stretch learners into their challenge zone. Whether it’s solving a tough math problem, giving a speech at an exhibition, or learning to navigate conflict with a peer, children build real confidence by working through discomfort and coming out stronger. They’re supported along the way—but never rescued—so they learn that they can do hard things, and they carry that belief with them for life.

At Acton, we call our teachers Guides—because they don’t stand at the front and lecture. Instead, they walk alongside learners, asking great questions, holding high expectations, and supporting children as they grow into independent thinkers. Our Head of School and Elementary Guide holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education. Our Pre-K/Kindergarten Guide is working toward her Bachelor's and already holds an Associate’s in Early Childhood Education. All Guides complete an intensive onboarding and ongoing training through Acton Academy’s international network. Every adult who works with children at Acton Lakewood—including co-founders and an occasional substitute—undergoes a thorough background check.

Our Guides are trained to know each learner well—not just where they are academically, but what motivates them. They meet weekly with learners to set goals, track growth, hold the guardrails of the systems, and offer honest, encouraging feedback. Instead of lecturing, they ask great questions, design motivating systems and games, and help learners connect the dots between effort and progress. Their job isn’t to deliver information—it’s to equip and inspire.

We use clear boundaries, consistent systems, and logical consequences. Learners co-create community promises and help uphold them—not out of fear, but because they care about their studio. Guides don’t scold or rescue; they coach learners to solve problems, reflect, and grow. We emphasize personal responsibility, ownership, and intrinsic motivation. A common phrase at Acton Lakewood is: Discipline equals freedom.

Absolutely. One of the benefits of a small school is direct access to the people leading it. Co-founders/owners Molly and Dominick Lucia are on campus daily, working closely with learners, Guides, and families to ensure Acton Lakewood stays true to its learner-driven mission—and delivers an excellent experience for every child.

Tuition is $12,650 annually, paid monthly ($1,150/mo), with a $1,000 one-time enrollment fee. Discounts: 5% off for full upfront payment, 5% sibling discount, 50% off the enrollment fee for a second child.

We don’t currently offer traditional financial aid, but starting in the 2026–2027 school year, we plan to accept the Texas Education Savings Account (ESA), which is expected to cover up to $10,000 per student toward tuition.

Because your child only gets one childhood—and the habits, confidence, and mindset they build now will shape everything that comes next. At Acton Lakewood, learners develop real-world skills, strong character, and a deep love of learning. They don’t just memorize facts—they learn how to think, lead, and take responsibility. Our intentionally small setting gives each child big opportunities: to be known, to be challenged, and to grow. If you're looking for a school experience that helps your child thrive now and prepares them for what's ahead, this is it.

Yes—especially in Pre-K and Kinder, we often have a waitlist. We encourage you to register early so we can notify you when a spot becomes available. Our year-round schedule and rolling admissions process allow new learners to start at the beginning of any 6-week session, as long as there’s space. Sessions begin right after each break, which you can view on our Academic Calendar.

To get started, check out our simple 3-Part Process to apply or join the waitlist.

Use this link to schedule a tour of our campus. You’ll meet the co-founders/owners, see examples of learner work and systems in action, and get a real feel for our small school with a big experience. To protect the deep focus of our learning environment, we don’t offer tours during the school day. However, after your tour, you’ll have the option to sign up for a “fly on the wall” visit—an unobtrusive way to observe learners in action on another day.