Exploring Education Blog

"What is essential is to realize that children learn independently, they learn out of interest and curiosity, not to please or appease the adults in power; and that they ought to be in control of their own learning, deciding for themselves what they want to learn and how they want to learn it."

- John Holt, Author of How Children Learn

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Raising Independent Thinkers: How Ivy Greene Prepares Learners for Life

February 24, 20253 min read

The Importance of Independence in Education

In today’s rapidly changing world, success is no longer just about what you know—it’s about how you think, adapt, and take initiative. Traditional education often conditions learners to follow directions and seek approval rather than think independently. At Ivy Greene Academy, we take a different approach, one that prioritizes self-motivation, problem-solving, and real-world responsibility to prepare learners for adulthood.

How Ivy Greene Fosters Independent Thinking

Independence is not something that happens overnight. It is a skill that must be cultivated through experience, challenges, and reflection. At Ivy Greene, we provide an environment where learners take ownership of their education and develop the confidence to navigate life beyond the classroom. Here’s how:

1. Learner-Driven Education

Rather than being passive recipients of information, learners at Ivy Greene take an active role in their own education. They set personal goals, track their progress, and seek out the resources they need to succeed. This instills a sense of accountability and encourages them to take initiative in their learning.

2. Real-World Problem Solving

We believe that the best learning happens when learners apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Through hands-on projects, apprenticeships, and community involvement, learners tackle complex problems, make decisions, and see the impact of their choices firsthand. This prepares them to think critically and solve challenges they will encounter in adulthood.

3. Studio-Based Learning

Instead of traditional classrooms with rigid structures, Ivy Greene utilizes larger, dynamic learning studios where learners collaborate, lead discussions, and engage in self-directed exploration. This environment mirrors real-life professional and entrepreneurial settings, helping learners build communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.

4. Encouraging Resilience and Adaptability

Independent thinkers must learn how to face challenges head-on. We allow learners to experience failure as a natural part of growth, guiding them to reflect, adapt, and persevere. This fosters resilience, a crucial skill for success in both personal and professional life.

5. Freedom with Responsibility

At Ivy Greene, freedom comes with responsibility. Learners manage their own schedules, participate in governance decisions, and hold each other accountable for maintaining a positive and productive learning environment. This sense of ownership prepares them to handle responsibilities confidently in adulthood.

The Long-Term Impact of Independent Thinking

When learners are given the tools and opportunities to think for themselves, they develop essential life skills such as:

  • Self-Motivation: They pursue knowledge because they are curious, not because they are told to.

  • Confidence: They trust their ability to make decisions and solve problems.

  • Leadership: They take initiative, influence others, and contribute to their communities.

  • Adaptability: They embrace change and find solutions in uncertain situations.

Preparing Learners for Life

Independence is not just an educational philosophy—it’s a necessity for thriving in the real world. Ivy Greene Academy is committed to raising independent thinkers who are prepared to take on life’s challenges with confidence and competence.

Are you ready to give your child the freedom and responsibility to take charge of their education and future? Visit Ivy Greene Academy and see how our learner-driven approach empowers the next generation of leaders and innovators.


Donna Akers was a public school educator for 28 years, she railed against an unfair and sometimes unjust system of education. She witnessed bright shining stars have their light dimmed. She fought hard for her learners, but ultimately ventured out on her own to free herself from the illogical and wrongheaded ideas of the public school system. Donna started Ivy Greene Academy in August of 2020, during the pandemic. She has been able to explore with her learners, take deep dives into rich material with her learners, and celebrate the joy of success with them each day. Now she revels in the light of the learners of Ivy Greene, and seeks to share this light with her community.

Dr. Donna Akers

Donna Akers was a public school educator for 28 years, she railed against an unfair and sometimes unjust system of education. She witnessed bright shining stars have their light dimmed. She fought hard for her learners, but ultimately ventured out on her own to free herself from the illogical and wrongheaded ideas of the public school system. Donna started Ivy Greene Academy in August of 2020, during the pandemic. She has been able to explore with her learners, take deep dives into rich material with her learners, and celebrate the joy of success with them each day. Now she revels in the light of the learners of Ivy Greene, and seeks to share this light with her community.

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Ivy Greene Academy provides a Christ-centered education that fosters academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a heart for service. Rooted in the belief that every learner is a unique creation of God, we cultivate their gifts and talents to prepare them for a purpose-driven life. Our vision is to develop independent, resilient leaders who choose to follow Christ.

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