Whether you are considering a different school route for your child, or just want to explore the education options in the Fargo-Moorhead area, we encourage you to check out Odyssey FM in Moorhead!
Odyssey FM opened in the Fall of 2024, and is accredited by the International Association of Learner Driven Schools. Odyssey FM is an Acton Academy school that utilizes the learner-driven model of education. They believe in learning to be and learning to do, rather than just learning to know.
Odyssey FM Core Beliefs
At Odyssey FM, there are 4 main beliefs that drive their education model:
- Each child has a gift that can change the world in a profound way.
- Learners should be closely connected as a unit, or “family.”
- Focus on learning to learn (e.g. processes and critical thinking), learning to do (hands-on projects and skills), and learning to be (contributing something meaningful).
- Economic, religious, and political freedom.
Students at Odyssey FM are encouraged to take responsibility for their own behavior and hold those around them to a high standard. When something isn’t working, students work together to solve the problem, not look for an adult to solve it for them. This creates a sense of independence and confidence that will serve them well in all areas of life.
So, what does a typical day at Odyssey FM look like?
A day at Odyssey FM doesn’t look the same as a traditional school. It is full of deep conversation, critical thinking, project-based learning, and social connections.
A Day at Odyssey FM
8:30 a.m.
Learners are greeted at 8:30 a.m., and allowed time for casual conversation with their peers. This helps in building a sense of community within Odyssey, both between learners and their mentors and guides. After collecting their belongings needed to start the day, learners gather at a common area to begin their “first launch.”
First Launch
The day launches with Socratic discussion (an important Acton Academy philosophy). This means learners engage in a thoughtful conversation on a specific topic or idea, and are allowed to ask questions, discuss various viewpoints, and use critical thinking skills.
The discussions revolve around themes like ethics, science, or literature. Learners are encouraged to come prepared with thoughts and questions, emphasizing ownership of their learning journey.
Next Up: Core Skills
Core skills focus on fostering independence, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Students develop essential abilities such as reading, writing, and math through self-paced, mastery-based learning.
Instead of traditional instruction, they set their own goals, track progress, and engage in problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world application.
For the younger learners (ages 5-7) this includes Montessori-inspired learning. For the older learners (ages 8-10) they use online learning tools like Lexia, DreamBox, and Khan. We also incorporate time for Writers Workshop and Civilization (where students explore history, geography, and the human experience).
Free Play
Learners have ample free play time. Weather permitting, time is spent outdoors at least an hour or more daily. Fridays are “scholars choice,” where learners have the opportunity to decide how to spend their afternoon. Whether it’s building forts or inventing new games, the learners decide how to use their skills and creativity for fun!
Project-Based Learning
One of the key differences from traditional schooling that Odyssey FM implements is how they use project-based learning to connect academic concepts to the real world. Each project usually spans several weeks, allowing students to delve deeply into a subject that ignites their curiosity.
Examples of projects can include creating a business plan for a product or service, building a community garden, researching a historical figure and presenting a speech from their perspective, or learning coding to build and program robots to solve a specific problem.
During these projects, learners work in small groups to encourage collaboration. This teamwork not only enhances social skills but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility as learners discuss ideas, delegate tasks, and support one another. The act of creating something tangible provides a sense of accomplishment and reinforces their learning objectives.
The Role of Guides
As their project work continues through the day, their guide (known as a teacher in traditional schooling) is circulating the room. They provide guidance and support when needed, but ultimately, it is the students who steer their learning experiences.
Whether working on a science experiment, crafting a presentation, or coding a game, learners engage with their projects in ways that are personally meaningful. This autonomy not only fuels their motivation but also cultivates a deep sense of ownership over their education, encouraging them to strive for excellence.
“They LOVE going to school! They are so happy to be there and all the kids are so excited to tell me all about their day when I come to pick them up. I can tell their skills are improving and they are asking to do “homework” at home, like work on their business or [use] the school apps on my phone to keep working on [projects].”
– Odyssey FM Parent
Accountability & Goal Setting
Curious how learners stay motivated through their day? Each day, learners set specific SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This practice encourages students to be intentional about their learning and to track their progress.
Setting these goals daily serves as a powerful motivator for learners. It fosters a growth mindset, empowering learners to embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. As students work towards their goals throughout the day, they can see their progress in real-time.
In addition to setting personal goals, learners also participate in “running teammates,” a unique accountability system at Odyssey FM. Students meet regularly with peers to discuss their goals, share progress, and provide support. This fosters a strong sense of community, as learners motivate one another, learn to give and receive constructive feedback, and celebrate successes.
Closing the Day: 3:00 p.m.
As the day comes to a close near 3:00 p.m., learners once again gather in a common area for a final reflection session. They look back on their day, discuss achievements and lessons learned, and discuss goals for the following day.
At the end of the day, guides and learners have the opportunity to recognize their peers who have shown core values such as courage, empathy, or resilience throughout the day. Character development is a big part of Odyssey FM, and this time allows students to see how their actions are just as important as their academics.
Who Can Apply & What is the Process?
Odyssey FM is currently enrolling ages 5 (Kindergarten) through upper Elementary (5th grade). As the current learners mature and grow, there may be opportunities for middle and high school ages to apply.
The best way to explore Odyssey FM is to schedule a tour before applying. There is an application process, but the Odyssey FM team wants to ensure their school is a good fit for your family as you consider applying.
Odyssey FM Open House Dates
Come check out Odyssey FM at an upcoming open house event! All open houses will take place at their location at 1900 14th St S in Moorhead (inside Christ the King Lutheran Church).
- February 28th, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
- March 21, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
- April 11, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
- May 2, 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Find details and upcoming open house dates on their Facebook page.
Contact Odyssey FM
Have a question or want to meet the team behind Odyssey FM? You can use this contact form, or e-mail Odyssey FM at [email protected]. Answers to some questions can also be found on their helpful FAQ page.
