Educational Resources
Research-Backed, Learner-Driven Education
Why Acton Works
At Acton Central, we know parents want more than promises, they want proof. That’s why our model is grounded in decades of research on mastery learning, intrinsic motivation, and the power of multi-age communities. Studies consistently show that children learn best when they set goals, work at their own pace, and apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
Here you’ll find articles, research, and coverage that highlight why Acton is redefining education, and why families worldwide are choosing this model.
Nurture Shock
Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman
TEDxOKC
Jeff Sandefer Rethinking Education
Getting Smart Podcast
Hear from Parents, Students, and Educators
Voices of Experience
Wondering if this model really works for real families? You’re not alone. Parents across Calgary and around the world have asked the same questions, and found powerful answers in the Acton experience.
Through podcasts, video stories, and parent testimonials, you’ll hear how children gain independence, confidence, and resilience while rediscovering the joy of learning. These voices remind us: Acton isn’t just a school, it’s a community where families grow alongside their children.
the Talent Code
Daniel Coyle
Doctor Mom Podcast
Episode 310
Acton Academy Disruptive Education
Amanda Horvath film
One World Schoolhouse
Sal Khan
For Parents Who Want the Full Picture
Dive Deeper
Some parents want reassurance, others want data. If you’re the kind who likes to dive deep, we’ve curated books, articles, and longer-form research that shaped the Acton model. From psychology to education innovation, these resources explain why our learner-driven approach works — and why it prepares children for a rapidly changing world.
For families seeking not just a school but a philosophy, this section offers the depth you’re looking for.
Courage to Grow
The Founding Story of Acton Laura Sandefer
A Virtual Tour of Acton
Thrivenomics
Episode 10
Ready Set Love!
Episode 29 with Jeff Sandefer
Unschooling Rules
Clark Aldrich
Research-Backed, Learner-Driven Education
Why Acton Works
At Acton Central, we know parents want more than promises, they want proof. That’s why our model is grounded in decades of research on mastery learning, intrinsic motivation, and the power of multi-age communities. Studies consistently show that children learn best when they set goals, work at their own pace, and apply knowledge in real-world contexts.
Here you’ll find articles, research, and coverage that highlight why Acton is redefining education, and why families worldwide are choosing this model.
Nurture Shock
Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman
TEDxOKC
Jeff Sandefer Rethinking Education
Getting Smart Podcast
Hear from Parents, Students, and Educators
Voices of Experience
Wondering if this model really works for real families? You’re not alone. Parents across Calgary and around the world have asked the same questions, and found powerful answers in the Acton experience.
Through podcasts, video stories, and parent testimonials, you’ll hear how children gain independence, confidence, and resilience while rediscovering the joy of learning. These voices remind us: Acton isn’t just a school, it’s a community where families grow alongside their children.
the Talent Code
Daniel Coyle
Doctor Mom Podcast
Episode 310
Acton Academy Disruptive Education
Amanda Horvath film
One World Schoolhouse
Sal Khan
Dive Deeper
For Parents Who Want the Full Picture
Some parents want reassurance, others want data. If you’re the kind who likes to dive deep, we’ve curated books, articles, and longer-form research that shaped the Acton model. From psychology to education innovation, these resources explain why our learner-driven approach works — and why it prepares children for a rapidly changing world.
For families seeking not just a school but a philosophy, this section offers the depth you’re looking for.
Courage to Grow
The Founding Story of Acton Laura Sandefer
A Virtual Tour of Acton
Thrivenomics
Episode 10
Ready Set Love!
Episode 29 with Jeff Sandefer
Unschooling Rules
Clark Aldrich