Learning about Value, Legacy, and Leadership (Feb 9–13)

Highlights: How did we turn learning upside down?

Learners spent the week planning and hosting their Exhibition of Learning. They designed the layout and flow of the event, created signage, chose roles, and built an agenda to guide the experience for guests. And then they executed their Exhibition with no adult interference or involvement.

Following the Exhibition, learners debriefed together. They discussed what went well, what they believed guests took away from the experience, and what they would change or repeat in future exhibitions. Many identified the human chess match as a highlight and expressed interest in including more group activities in future Exhibitions.

Several learners noted that sharing the lessons learned during Chess Quest went better than expected. One learner identified presenting their persuasive speech as a personal highlight. While reflecting, learners acknowledged how nerve-racking the tournament portion of the exhibition felt, and recognized the courage required to participate.

The latest in educational technology for self-paced mastery in reading, writing, and math

Learners continued making progress in Core Skills, working at newly selected levels in reading and math.

Hands-on, project-based Quests to master the tools and skills needed to solve problems in the real world

In Communications, learners began formally sharing their persuasive speeches with studio mates for feedback. Once a speech received a “green light” from a peer, it was ready to be presented to the full studio for a vote. All writers who felt ready shared their speeches at the Exhibition.

When votes were tallied, the persuasive speech competition resulted in a three-way tie.

Throughout the week, learners finalized preparations for the Exhibition: refining art projects from Chess Quest, planning roles, drafting the agenda, and ensuring the space was prepared for guests.

Written promises and covenants that form a tightly bound community of individuals learning to form authentic friendships and honestly resolve interpersonal problems

Learners collaborated on assigning roles for the Exhibition, including welcoming guests, facilitating activities, and ensuring the event ran smoothly. Discussions around roles included defining responsibilities clearly—for example, distinguishing between a greeter and a “lingerer,” (a hero-coined role that may become part of Acton Lanark's lexicon). A lingerer is someone who remains available to engage with guests.

Deep Socratic discussions about heroes, history, and self-governance to hone critical thinking skills and the ability to powerfully think, write, and speak

The week began with a launch based on the heist at the Louvre in 2025. Learners debated whether the robbery reflected the brilliance of the thieves or the shortcomings of the museum’s security team. They also discussed whether the value of the stolen items came primarily from their materials or from their historical significance. The group concluded that historical significance carried greater value.

In another launch, learners examined the concept of value itself. Presented with paired choices—such as a new iPad versus travel abroad or a nice meal versus a stuffed animal—they discussed why they valued certain items more than others and where their values originate: family, society, peers, or personal experience.

Chess Quest shifted its focus to the King, exploring the piece’s limited but essential movement and its symbolism of honour and legacy. Learners reflected on the legacy they hope to leave in the Records of the Chessboard Realm—whether through skill, honourable conduct, or perseverance and growth.

Prior to the Exhibition, learners revisited the lessons of the Quest and discussed which of those lessons they intend to carry forward into future challenges and relationships.

The studio continued implementing short emotional check-ins at the end of morning launches, allowing learners to reflect on how they are feeling and to plan their work capacity for the day accordingly.

Memorable quotes from learners this week: evidence of the model in action

“Don’t give up. Even when you lose you still get the experience.”

“I think I learned my values from my family but also myself because I’ve always loved nature and being outside.”

“We need a greeter for exhibition and a lingerer. What’s a lingerer? It’s someone who lingers around.”

“I learned that just because you won by a lot in one chess match against someone doesn’t mean you will win by a lot in the next match against them.”