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

Leadership

The Studio Experience: A Day in the Life of an Ivy Greene Learner

May 05, 20253 min read

What does a typical day look like for a learner at Ivy Greene Academy? If you’re imagining desks lined up in neat rows and a teacher standing at the front of the room — think again.

At Ivy Greene, learning happens in vibrant, mixed-age studios where learners set their own goals, engage in real-world projects, and collaborate with peers to solve problems. Each day is designed to build independence, resilience, and a sense of purpose — with the flexibility for learners to explore their interests and take charge of their education.

Here’s a glimpse into a day in the life of an Ivy Greene learner:


Morning: Goal Setting and Focused Work

Each day starts with a brief group meeting where learners set their personal goals and reflect on their progress from the day before. Guides encourage learners to think about the "why" behind their work — helping them connect their goals to a larger sense of purpose.

➡️ Example: A learner working on a business project might set a goal to finalize their marketing plan, while another working on a science experiment might aim to complete data analysis.

✅ Goal tracking helps learners stay motivated and accountable.
✅ Learners are free to organize their schedules based on their personal learning styles.


Mid-Morning: Core Skill Work

Instead of traditional lectures, learners engage in hands-on, mastery-based learning to develop core skills like math, reading, and writing. They use a mix of individual practice, peer collaboration, and mentorship from guides.

➡️ Example: A group of learners working on fractions might apply their knowledge by designing a recipe — calculating ingredient amounts and adjusting for different serving sizes.

✅ Learners progress at their own pace, ensuring they master each skill before moving on.
✅ Peer-to-peer learning strengthens understanding and builds communication skills.


Midday: Socratic Discussion

Learners gather in a Socratic circle to explore a big question or complex topic. Discussions are learner-led, with guides acting as facilitators rather than instructors.

➡️ Example: A discussion about leadership might explore the qualities that make a good leader, how to handle failure, and why integrity matters.

✅ Learners develop critical thinking and listening skills.
✅ Respectful debate encourages open-mindedness and deeper understanding.


Afternoon: Project-Based Learning

The afternoon is dedicated to real-world projects where learners apply their skills and creativity to solve meaningful challenges. Projects are designed to build teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving.

➡️ Example: A team creating a school fundraiser might have to manage a budget, market the event, and adjust their plan based on feedback — all while working together to hit their target.

✅ Projects are open-ended, encouraging creative problem-solving.
✅ Learners learn to manage setbacks and adapt strategies.


End of Day: Reflection and Studio Care

Before leaving, learners reflect on their progress, identify challenges, and celebrate wins. They also take responsibility for maintaining the studio space — reinforcing a sense of accountability and shared ownership.

➡️ Example: A learner might realize they need to adjust their project timeline or ask for peer feedback to solve a problem.

✅ Daily reflection builds self-awareness and strategic thinking.
✅ Studio care teaches responsibility and teamwork.


Why It Works

The studio model reflects real life — where success depends on initiative, collaboration, and adaptability. Learners gain the confidence to tackle challenges head-on and the resilience to keep going when things get tough.

✅ Confidence in leading and collaborating
✅ Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
✅ A sense of purpose and personal responsibility
✅ The ability to work independently and as part of a team


See It for Yourself

Education at Ivy Greene Academy isn’t about following instructions — it’s about taking charge, thinking deeply, and creating something meaningful. Our studio-based model equips learners with the skills and confidence to succeed in life.


👉 Schedule a tour today and see how Ivy Greene learners thrive in a studio-based model!



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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