Editor’s note: This story was submitted to The Permian Press for publication. Readers interested in submitting a local story can visit our Submit a Story page.

What to watch: Yucca Learning, an Acton Academy offering self-directed, mixed-age learning, will host an open house on Thursday, Feb. 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 2908 N. Lamesa Rd. The family-friendly event celebrates the opening of the school’s newly renovated high school campus, called the Monarch House. Families can tour the campus, meet current parents and staff, and enjoy light refreshments.

Why it matters: For Midland families exploring educational options, Yucca Learning offers an alternative to traditional classroom models, emphasizing student-led learning and mixed-age classrooms. The program expands local Montessori-style education into older grade levels.

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The big picture: Yucca Learning focuses on what educators call “whole-child” education, supporting academic growth alongside social, emotional and leadership development.

The program now serves students from early childhood through high school. Students ages seven to 18 work in mixed-age groups led by trained guides who facilitate discussion and critical thinking using a Socratic approach. Students engage in self-directed projects, outdoor nature play, cultural and artistic pursuits, leadership roles, and mastery-based learning across subjects.

Go deeper: Teachers at Yucca Learning are called “guides” and focus on coaching students through goal setting and real-world problem solving. The model draws from Acton Academy’s “hero’s journey” framework, which focuses on building independence, resilience and leadership skills.

The school is approved to accept Texas Education Freedom Account funds, which may provide financial flexibility for qualifying families.

What they’re saying: “As an Acton Academy, our goal is to foster students’ natural curiosity and drive for learning, supporting them as they discover how they want to impact the world,” school leaders said.

What’s next: Families interested in learning more can attend the open house or visit the Yucca Learning website for additional details and RSVP information.