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Our Story

A family's calling to transform education

Heroes Academy was born from one family's conviction that children deserve more than a one-size-fits-all education.

The Thompson Family
The Thompson Family

How it all started

Jake and Alissa Thompson discovered Acton Academy in 2018 after hearing about the model from friends. They visited the original Acton campus in Austin, TX and were blown away by what they saw -- children who were deeply engaged, self-directed, and genuinely excited about learning.

They founded Heroes Academy in 2019 to bring learner-driven education to the Treasure Valley. What started with 12 learners has grown into a thriving Pre-K through 12th grade community, proving that when you trust children with real responsibility, extraordinary things happen.

Global Network

Part of Something Bigger

Heroes Academy is part of the Acton Academy network of 300+ schools across 30+ countries. Founded by Jeff and Laura Sandefer in Austin, TX in 2009, the Acton model has spread worldwide, proving that learner-driven education works for families everywhere.

Jeff Sandefer
Jeff Sandefer
Co-Founder, Acton Academy
Laura Sandefer
Laura Sandefer
Co-Founder, Acton Academy
What We Believe

Core Beliefs That Guide Us

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Every child is a genius
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Children learn best by doing
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Heroes change the world
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The journey matters most
Courage to Grow by Laura Sandefer
"A remarkable book that captures the powerful journeys of Acton Academy's founders, students, parent community, and -- I hope -- the future of education around the globe."
Ted Dintersmith, Education Author, Film Producer, and Philanthropist
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Begin Your Family's Journey

Schedule a visit or request our free info kit to learn more.

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