Starting Year 10!

Dear THA Parents and Warriors,

It’s hard to believe that 10 years ago, we launched The Humanist Academy from that red-brick house on Rodeo Drive in Valley Ranch!

That first year began with just 16 learners. We never imagined we’d be where we are today—with five studios, a full Launchpad program of 20+ learners, and two high school graduates!

Our growth and success aren’t the result of any one individual or magic bullet, but of a collaborative community of people who care. Your feedback, your love, and your honest conversations have shaped THA into what it is today.

As we prepare to start this new year strong (we're headed to an Acton conference with our Guides tomorrow), we want to thank the handful of parents who shared feedback in our End-of-Year Survey—and those of you who consistently take the time to fill them out. We’ve included the results for your review (with Warriors’ names removed for privacy).

We’re incredibly grateful to have received a 9.7 rating for staying true to our principles. The THA journey is messy—crisis is a natural part of the Hero’s Journey—but we’re committed to staying grounded in who we are, and to providing the most meaningful life lessons possible for our children in an ever-changing world.

In a recent conversation with an Acton parent in Chicago, we reflected on the key differences between traditional education and Acton’s approach.

Traditional schools are designed for children to:

• Get good grades

• Pass classes and tests

• Get into college

• Find a job and earn money

• Memorize, follow, and repeat back information

• Comply

• Survive in the real world

  
  

Acton Academy was designed for children to:

• Tap into their infinite potential and find a calling

• Be curious and explore passions

• Become independent, critical thinkers

• Learn about service, collaboration, and leadership

• Develop a deep sense of identity, purpose, and belonging—Who am I? Who do I belong to? What is my purpose?

• Embark on a Hero’s Journey and take ownership of their learning

• Thrive in the real world

  
  

Over the past decade, we’ve made plenty of mistakes, missed opportunities, and learned many hard lessons—but every step has been so worth it. We see the Acton magic in our Warriors' eyes every single day... it truly feels like we’re living the dream.

As we begin this milestone year, our friend Jia—founder of Acton Academy Kuala Lumpur—shared a heartfelt message for our THA community. Hope you enjoy it!

We're looking forward to another Graduation Ceremony this June as we anticipate celebrating four graduates this year!

How will you and your Warrior(s) make this school year special and memorable? How will you thrive?

Excited to see you all in just a couple of weeks!

With gratitude,— Vijay