Could your child's education be the key to unlocking a lifetime of fulfillment?

Lighthouse International is an alternative school in St. Charles County that begins your child's journey to self-sufficiency while leaving a lasting impact on their community.


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Have you noticed these challenges in your child's education?

Learning hindered by an incompatible pace

Restricted curiosity and discouraged questioning

Limited autonomy over learning methods

Disengagement from curriculum

Decreased motivation and no benefit to pursue excellence

Endless homework battles

Learner Results

Here are some achievements of our learners.

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Apprenticeship at Blizzard Entertainment

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Made, marketed, and sold handmade blankets at a business fair

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On average, Acton learners score 2-3 grade levels ahead of their peers

How our learners achieve these results

Socratic discussions, collaborative projects, and self-paced learning in a learner-led environment. Acton students are building real-life skills every day.



Self-Efficacy

Learners gain the confidence that they can find answers and make a difference in their world regardless of age.

Creative Problem Solving

Learners are taught to suggest solutions when bringing up an issue or concern.

Taking Risks and Failing Forward

Risks and failing forward are normalized and celebrated as real opportunities to learn and grow.

Independence

LIAA fosters independence and a life-long love of learning as learners take ownership of curriculum and are free to explore their passions.

Freedom & Responsibility

Learners realize that with much freedom comes much responsibility and are given opportunity to figure out how to maintain that balance.

Conflict Resolution Skills

Learners strengthen conflict resolution skills through managing emotions, looking for win-win scenarios, and encouraging others to be their best selves.

Critical Thinking

Learners use evidence to make a stance, understand the opposing point of view, and change their minds when new evidence is presented.

Self-Advocacy

Learners find their voice and become confident in using it to advocate for themselves and others through civic engagement.



A Virtual Tour of Acton Academy 2012-2013

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3 simple steps to get started

Enrollment for 2024-2025 is open!

Please complete the following steps to begin the audition process, which helps determine if our learning environment is a good fit for your learner and family. We have limited openings available, so encourage you to apply soon!

  • Watch Laura's Video Watch Video
  • Schedule a Phone Call

    If you already completed Step 1, here is your chance to ask any questions you may have. This step serves as a mutual screening process!

    Schedule a Call
  • See an Exhibition

    t's time to see things for yourself. Come and visit during one of our exhibitions to see our learners in action!

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At Lighthouse International, we still believe in heroes.

Lighthouse International is the first micro-school of its kind in Missouri. An innovative alternative at an affordable price. A place where children are free to "fail forward". A place where they learn to BE and to DO, and to LEARN. It's education as it could be.

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Our promises to your child

They will:

  • Begin a Hero's Journey
  • Become a curious, independent, life-long learner
  • Develop a deep respect for political, economic, and religious freedom
  • Treasure the arts, wonders and mysteries of life
  • Discover their most profound gifts and learn to use them to solve some of the world’s most difficult problems
  • Form resilient and courageous character.

What Makes Lighthouse International Different?

Socratic discussions, collaborative projects, and self-paced learning in a student-led environment. Acton students are building real-life skills in the classroom every day.

"What if children could share learning in a tight-bound community with a high standard level of excellence? What if they are encouraged to find a deep, burning need in the world that matches the deep, burning need in their heart? We believe children are far more capable than we have ever imagined. That's why we encourage them to embark on their hero's journey to change the world."
- Jeff Sandefer
Founder Acton Academy

Hi, I'm Eliza Rivas.

I'm the Founder and Head of School at Lighthouse International.

We'd love to hear from you. Explore Lighthouse International:

Start your Audition Here
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Begin your Family's Journey

Start your Audition Here