Spark a Hero's Journey
Inspired by Maria Montessori’s method and Acton Academy principles, our young (ages 5 to 7) heroes get to experience self-paced hands-on learning, age-appropriate discussion, and ample outdoor time with a mix of adventures and play.
Igniting Curiosity and Creativity:
Imagine a place where curiosity dances hand-in-hand with creativity. That’s our Spark Studio! Our young heroes embark on exciting adventures, fueled by their innate wonder. From sensory exploration to hands-on projects, their imaginations soar.
Safe Boundaries, Fearless Exploration:
Our studio is a haven where happy, spirited children push boundaries fearlessly. Within these walls, they discover, learn, and grow. Safety is our priority, allowing them to explore with confidence.
Guides, Not Teachers:
Our Spark teachers are more than instructors; they’re guides. They understand that young learners thrive when given the right balance of freedom and structure. Instead of always providing answers, they ask thought-provoking questions that spark curiosity.
Fun and Growth
Learners work towards mastery in core skills like reading and math, while celebrating their growth along the way. Every week includes art projects, outdoor adventures, nature exploration, and more! Our enrichment activities add a spark of creativity and joy to each day.
Daily Schedule
The Spark Studio follows a simple schedule, alternating between Montessori Work and Spark Play throughout the day, with morning, afternoon, and closing groups offering engaging activities to inspire, equip, and connect learners, and a lunch break in between.
Maintaining a structured schedule, with dedicated time blocks for learners to choose their challenges, is crucial for cultivating habits that will benefit them in the Elementary Studios. These set time blocks also aid in organizing their days and fostering essential self-management skills.
Morning Montessori Work
(9am to Lunch)Montessori work is like a magical blend of curiosity, independence, and purpose. Imagine a bustling studio where kids don’t just learn—they dive into their tasks. These little explorers wield tiny brooms, pour beans with precision, care for the barn animals, and sew buttons like seasoned tailors. No plastic toys here—just captivating materials that whisper secrets of math, language, and life. It’s a symphony of self-directed learning, where each child dances to their own rhythm, fueled by wonder and guided by caring guides. So, when you peek into a Montessori room, you’ll find not just students but architects of their own knowledge, building bridges to a brighter future—one button, one bead, and one banana-sized step at a time!
Afternoon Spark Play
(Lunch to 3:15pm)Imagine a space where your child rules the roost! In Spark Play, kids are the architects of their own adventures. They get to decide what to play, how to play, and with whom – it's the ultimate free-for-all! Teachers become keen observers instead of directors, stepping back to let your child's creativity take the lead. Think of it like a giant playground built with everyday materials—ropes, tires, barrels, even bamboo ladders! Kids collaborate, problem-solve, and discover all while having a blast. Spark Play is all about letting your child's imagination run wild while they build essential skills!
FAQ
Where is Spark Studio?
Where is Spark Studio?
As of the 2026 school year, we are located on our new 4-acre property, nestled between Newberg and Sherwood on Corral Creek Road (previously located at Camp Tilikum).
How much is tuition?
How much is tuition?
2026-2027 tuition is a $600 registration + $5,150/yr per learner paid over 9 months ($572/mo). Sibling discounts are available for second and third learners.
What ages are you accepting?
What ages are you accepting?
K through 2nd is the target age for Spark studio. Advanced learners may move to the Explorers studio when ready (when reading and communicating both verbal and written to a 3rd grade level).
Is there a half day option?
Is there a half day option?
You may do a half day option (come for morning or afternoon) but there is no discount for tuition.
Is there any religious affiliation?
Is there any religious affiliation?
While we expose children to the importance of mindful spirituality and stress the historical importance of Christianity to the development of Western Civilization, we do not promote any one religion.
What's the calendar look like?
What's the calendar look like?
School begins after Labor Day and ends by Memorial Day. Breaks throughout the year are determined by our quest/project schedule which last about 4 to 6 weeks of focused work followed by 1 week off.
How many heroes are in the studio?
How many heroes are in the studio?
We can accommodate up to 15 learners in the Spark Studio.
Who is the guide?
Who is the guide?
Brittani Johnson (school co-founder) is the Spark Studio guide (K-2nd).
Is The Acton Academy a Montessori school?
Is The Acton Academy a Montessori school?
We respect and incorporate Maria Montessori’s philosophy, and our Spark studio follows the Montessori method very closely during the morning portion of the school day in a low-tech environment, combined with Acton Academy principles and Socratic discussions.
What is meant by a Hero's journey?
What is meant by a Hero's journey?
We believe that each of us has a special calling in life, and a series of trials and tests that must be faced with integrity and purpose, in order to live a satisfying and fulfilled life. Our mission is to prepare your child for his or her special journey.
Will children be grouped into grades?
Will children be grouped into grades?
We believe that children learn best when working with children younger and older than themselves rather than split up into groups based solely on age. In addition to individualized curriculum, all ages of students work together in mixed-age studios (K-2nd, 3rd-6th, 7th-8th).
Does Forge serve special needs children?
Does Forge serve special needs children?
We are not trained to serve children with serious learning disabilities but may be able to serve young heroes with dyslexia if they receive outside support.
What is meant by "Every Child Can Change the World"?
What is meant by "Every Child Can Change the World"?
We believe each of our students will find a passion — something they love and have a gift to do. They will use this gift to serve others and fulfill a need they are passionate about in the world.
Is Forge accredited in any way?
Is Forge accredited in any way?
Yes, Forge is IALDS accredited. More information is available at https://ialds.org/