Our Studios
Our Mixed-Aged Studios
Sparks → Discovery: two studios that match each stage of growth. As students build skills and character, they graduate to more independence, responsibility, and meaningful real‑world work.
Spark Studio
For ages 4 to 7
Fostering curiosity, collaboration, and confidence through self-directed play.
In the Spark Studio, young learners develop curiosity through hands-on exploration and self-directed play. They engage in collaborative activities and social interactions that help them navigate relationships and build confidence in a group setting. Through play, they develop foundational skills in communication, self-regulation, and resilience. These skills prepare them for greater independence and structured learning in the Elementary Studio.
Outdoor Free Play
Time outside isn’t a bonus—it’s part of how young children learn. Each day, Sparks spends about 2 hours in open-ended outdoor play, with plenty of space to climb, sprint, build, dig, and invent their own adventures. That self-directed movement strengthens coordination, sparks creativity, and builds resilience. With room to explore and take healthy, age-appropriate risks, children grow more confident, feel better in their bodies, and develop a lasting connection with the natural world.
Social Skills
Early academics are important—but so is learning how to be with others. In Sparks, children practice sharing space and materials, teaming up, and working through disagreements with calm support. Through guided group work and daily conversations, they build empathy, clear communication, and conflict‑resolution skills they’ll rely on for life.
Learning Through Play
Learning should feel like play because that’s how young children learn best. Inspired by Montessori, we offer a calm, hands-on environment where curiosity leads the way. With open-ended materials and real-life work, children build independence, focus, problem-solving skills, and a genuine love of learning from the very start.
Discovery Studio
For ages 7 to 12
Developing resilience, self-management, and self-governance through real-world exploration.
In the Elementary Studio, learners take ownership of their education through Socratic discussions, hands-on projects, and real-world exploration. They build self-management skills by setting goals, managing time, and taking responsibility for their learning. They also refine studio systems for self-governance, fostering leadership, accountability, and responsibility. Along the way, they cultivate curiosity and a love of learning, preparing for deeper critical thinking in Middle School.
Quests
Quests make learning feel like a real-world mission. Students might launch a mini business, prototype an invention, or investigate a science mystery then reflect on what they loved, what they’re good at, and where they want to grow. Each Quest helps children discover their passion, calling, and strengths while making learning an adventure!
Goal Ownership
In the Elementary Studio, learners begin steering their own learning. They choose goals, keep an eye on their progress, and take time to recognize wins, building real confidence and independence. As they practice owning the work (and the hard parts), they strengthen grit, a steady work ethic, and the mindset to learn from setbacks and keep going.
Group Projects
In the Elementary Studio, students learn that big work is rarely done alone. They practice collaboration through shared projects; planning together, dividing roles, and combining ideas into one finished result. Along the way, they build real communication and leadership: listening first, negotiating respectfully, and contributing in a way that moves the whole group forward.
Our Mission
We believe each person who enters our doors deserves to find a calling and change the world.
Our Educational Philosophy
We believe clear thinking leads to good decisions, good decisions lead to the right habits, the right habits forge character, and character determines destiny.
Begin your Family's Journey
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Acton Sioux Falls 4426 Technology Drive, Sioux Falls, SD 57106.