CHOICE Core Values
At the heart of any successful organization lies a set of core values. CHOICE is no different. When we set out to begin this venture, we knew we needed to have a clear set of guiding principles to keep us focused on our mission and our WHY. These pillars help us maintain the integrity of our organization as we grow, while also providing accountability.
As we began to formulate the CHOICE values, we used a few guiding ideas from the original Acton School in Austin, Texas as a springboard to create our own. We will share those three simple ideas here and then follow up with our CHOICE values.
Trust the Children
Known as the “secret ingredient” for Acton Academy schools, the upside-down power structure is what allows children to trust their instincts, learn to collaborate, and ultimately, to direct their own learning journey.
Let Them Struggle
Progress begins when we learn from failure instead of avoiding it. Determination, grit, and courage are all byproducts of being allowed to struggle. In fact, Thomas Paine (the famous orator who declared, “These are the times that try men’s souls”) said it so well when he penned, “What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly. It is dearness only which gives everything its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price on its goods. And it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as freedom should not be highly rated.” So it goes with becoming our own self. Struggle and discovery are part of the process.
Seize the Adventure
This model of education is more than a school. It is a quest to discover one’s greatest gifts and the grand wonders of the world. It is a hero’s journey. “Each of us is just an ordinary person: but if we’re willing to say yes to new experiences and keep moving forward, even when it’s hard, it hurts, and it includes failure, then we are – all of us – heroes on a journey.” Courage to Grow by Laura A. Sandefer.
With these inspiring guidelines and principles, we created the CHOICE core values. We believe deeply in each of these simple statements and every decision we make regarding CHOICE aligns with one or more of these values. We believe each individual can accept and live a hero’s journey!
CHOICE CORE VALUES
We are all on a hero’s journey. Our choices determine what path our journey takes.
Childhood is a time of preparation, discovery, and JOY. School should be a time of preparation, discovery, and JOY.
Learning to Learn, Learning to Do, and Learning to Be are far more important than learning to know.
Clear thinking leads to wise decisions. Wise decisions result in good habits. Good habits build character. Character determines destiny.
We believe in freedom: political, economic, & religious freedom.
If you find that you resonate with our message and would like to explore this educational option for your family, please do not hesitate to reach out. We would love to answer your questions and to give you further information about the core values, structure, and vision at CHOICE.