We have an incredible Slack channel at Acera where teachers sometimes share kids’ quotes—brilliant, funny, and insightful moments that capture the magic of learning! Every time I see one, I wish our parents could experience firsthand the energy, joy, and deep dedication our staff brings to inspiring and supporting every child, every day.
Our Floor 2 Collaboration Room is a hub of activity—teachers brainstorming, coaching one another, and exchanging ideas. On Wednesdays, while students are immersed in creativity stations, our core classroom teachers gather for professional development and planning. Around this, especially on Wednesdays, you can hear a constant flow of vibrant discussions, as teachers refine their craft and collaborate to bring learning to life.
So, what can be overheard at Acera when we listen to our teachers? Sitting in our collaboration space today, I caught snippets of conversations—thoughtful, passionate exchanges about designing incredible learning experiences that ignite curiosity and maximize each child’s potential. Here are just a few that stood out…
Alexis and Jamie Co-Preparing for Metaphysics
“I’m going to make a map of determinism,” Jamie says while prepping for the Metaphysics elective with Alexis, whom they co-design and co-lead.
“We can do the same thing with moral responsibility, so we have a clear framework… I’ll set this up in Milanote to make it super clear for them.”
“An essential question they could choose is ‘What is consciousness?’ Or maybe we should cover physics first?”
“How long should we budget for the presentations?”
“What are you concept mapping?”
Jamie clarifies: “Their final paper will be based on an essential question from the course—developing an argument around it. For example: ‘Is there an objective reality?’ ‘How does observation affect our experience of reality?’”
Students will choose from a list of ten deep, thought-provoking questions and craft their argument papers.
“How much do you wish you could have taken this class?”
“Oh my gosh, I think it’s the most amazing class I’ve ever taught. I mean, Metaphysics for middle schoolers?”
“The class is big, but with two of us teaching, it’s never a problem. The students chose this elective—they’re so engaged.”
Teachers and Parent Co-Preparing for a Mock Trial
“This parent is here to help us plan a mock trial!”
“You’ll probably want two or three prosecutors and two or three defense attorneys so they can each take a witness…”
“The prosecution and defense tend to get very competitive.”
“So, do we run the same trial twice?”
“Yes, and by the second round, they really know the material inside and out.”
As the parent continues explaining the structure of a trial, Deborah chimes in: “Would you be willing to come into the classroom and explain all of this directly to the students? They’re going to find this fascinating, and hearing it from you will get them even more excited. The way you’re breaking it down is not just educational for them—it’s a learning experience for me too!”
Every time I pass through a space where teachers are deep in conversation, I feel a little giddy. I try to stay quiet, not wanting to interrupt the incredible ideas and strategies they’re crafting—each one thoughtfully designed to meet their students’ needs. But at the same time, I can’t help but feel pure delight in their creativity and dedication. I only wish every one of you could hear these conversations, too.
I’m so proud of our staff—their integrity, talent, and love for what they do. My own kids went to Acera, and it was an amazing place for them. But seeing the strength of our program today, compared to what my own kids (now 23 and 20) experienced, I’ll admit—I’m a little jealous of what Acera students now get to be part of!
Admissions and re-enrollment for next year are strong! If you haven’t submitted your re-enrollment yet, take a moment to do that tonight. 😊 This is truly a special place!
All the best,
Courtney
Courtney Dickinson is Acera’s Founder & Head of School.
