Our Learning Design.
The Hero’s Journey.
Learning at Beacon Academy is an invitation to start a Hero's Journey. We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and that overcoming challenges with integrity and purpose will bring meaning to our journey. Our goal is to guide each child to understand the world around them and discover the talents within them so that they can find a calling and change the world. We don’t stop at learning academics, we also develop practical skills through hands-on projects, practice problem solving and critical thinking during daily Socratic discussions, and build character through strong community relationships.
Core Academic Skills.
Learn to know. Our learners master the foundations of reading, writing, and math during daily "Core Skills" time. Students work with a guide to differentiate their core curriculum and progress at their own pace utilizing a blend of hands-on and online learning tools. They showcase their mastery by meeting their goals, earning badges, assembling portfolios and taking part in public exhibitions of their work.
Quests & Projects.
Learn to do. We believe children learn best by doing. Whether it's launching a startup business, painting a mosaic, or programming a robot, Beacon Academy students build real-life skills every day. Our learners investigate, participate, and contribute to the world around them by taking on meaningful, hands-on projects. Projects are grouped together into themed “Quests” over the course of several weeks. The culminating event of these Quests are public exhibitions where children present what they have learned.
Socratic Discussions.
Learn to learn. Each day, learners cultivate critical thinking and decision making skills through Socratic discussions, or “launches,” based on thought-provoking questions. During these discussions they are asked to look at situations from various perspectives, to take a stand on complex issues, and to present their point of view. Among supportive and engaged peers, our children understand the importance of asking good questions, taking risks, and remaining curious about the world around them. Most importantly, they learn to look at situations from another’s perspective, and that friends do not need to agree on everything.
Servant Leadership.
Learn to be. Since learners are given guided responsibility to manage and maintain their studio community, they build the social, emotional, and leadership skills needed to make a difference in the world—whether it's submitting a proposal to the group at a “Town Hall Meeting”, leading a studio maintenance team, or holding each other accountable for excellent work. Students are constantly serving each other, and becoming productive and kind citizens in their studios, community, and the world.