What age range do you accept at Green School?

We are currently accepting learners ages 7 through 11 for our Elementary Studio. (We plan to grow into a k-12 by 2028).

For future academic years, we plan to grow organically, with each Studio maxing out at 35 learners.

In what ways are you diverse?

We believe learning is better in a diverse environment. As a community we want to bring together families with a variety of backgrounds to help them know, love, and support one another. We strive to maximize diversity across six dimensions:

• race
• economics
• gender
• age
• religion
• school background

Why Guides instead of teachers?

We believe self-directed learners with strong character will be the leaders of the next generation.

What is the school calendar and what does Green School cost?

Green School runs eleven months a year, typically with four to seven week “sprints” followed by a week off. Tuition varies by year and can be seen here.

What kind of learner thrives at Green School?

Kids who love to learn, are curious, self-motivated, and respectful. Our environment is an accelerator for the independent learner who can tackle challenging questions, follow instructions, and solve problems.

Is Green School accredited?

Yes. We are accredited by the International Association of Learner-Driven Schools.

What do you mean by “Every kid can change the world”?

We believe each of our learners will find a passion — something they love and have a gift for. They will use this gift to serve others and fulfill a need about which they are passionate. This may be by becoming a shoe-shiner who tells stories and brightens people’s day just by doing their job with love and vigor; it may be by becoming a coach who sees the light in a child’s eyes and guides them to pursue a dream; it may be by becoming a father or mother who leads a family on a Hero’s Journey; it may be becoming an entrepreneur or business leader guided by compassion and integrity; or it may be by becoming an artist or writer who brings beauty to people’s lives.

How do you measure how a child is progressing Green School?

We measure student progress in several different ways:

1. We set daily, weekly, and session goals between the student and the guides. Learners share these goals with parents.
2. We utilize robust real-time data for each of our online learning tools. At any given time both parents and guides can find out exactly what their student is learning. It easily allows us to track progress, identify areas of struggle, and close any learning gaps. The staff is alerted if a learner gets any more than 2 wrong answers in a row. Having a small class size, we are able to work one-on-one with the student to make sure that we can help them master the skill. The web-based programs don’t allow the student to move on to the next skill until the current skill has been mastered. Our guides receive training in helping kids get “unstuck”, embrace a growth mindset, and develop grit.
3. We utilize individual portfolios showcasing the student’s best work. Using work they have completed, we can measure their growth in things such as history, writer’s workshops, and any quest project.
4. Though we never “teach to the test,” standardized tests may be given to provide useful benchmark data.

Is Green School like Montessori?

Green School uses the best of Montessori methods: mixed-age classrooms, student choice within limits, large blocks of work time, learning through “discovery,” and freedom of movement in the classroom. Then we go three important steps further by using the best 21st century e-Learning tools, immersing learners in real-world projects, and adhering to the Socratic method of instruction, which emphasizes asking and answering questions to cultivate critical thinking. Our learners don’t just memorize facts; they learn how to learn, learn how to do, learn how to be, and learn how to live together.

Is Green School a religious school?

While we guide children to explore mindfulness, ethical principles, and the significance of religion in history and the development of society, we are not a religious school. We value and respect each individual’s beliefs. 

Do you serve special needs children?

We are not trained or staffed to serve children with serious learning disabilities, special needs, or who need specialized attention. If you are interested in Green School and believe it is a great fit for your family, please inquire and we will personally assess your unique situation and the fit of your young learner.

Are you a part of a chain or franchise?

We are not a franchise or chain. Green School is an independent school, part of an affiliate network that finds its inspiration and receives mentorship from the founding Acton Academy in Austin, Texas. Our network of affiliates are passionate about revolutionizing education, pursuing best practices, and have agreed to protect a learner-driven environment. Each affiliate follows their own methods in keeping with these commitments and vary based on the leadership at each school and community they serve.