The education system has been heavily criticized for being outdated and failing to prepare students for the 21st century. While there have been some efforts to modernize curriculum and teaching methods, the system as a whole is still stuck in the 19th century.

One of the main reasons for this is the traditional structure of schools. Students are often organized into grades and subjects, with a focus on memorization and test-taking rather than critical thinking and problem-solving. This model of education was developed in the 19th century to prepare students for industrial jobs, but it is no longer relevant in today's rapidly changing world.

Another issue is the lack of personalized learning. Many students have different learning styles and needs, but the traditional education system often fails to take this into account. As a result, students may struggle to keep up or may become disengaged and disinterested in learning.

Learner driven schools like Acton Academy are offering a 21st century education that addresses these issues. They focus on experiential learning and problem-based learning, which allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. They also use personalized learning plans to tailor the education to each student's needs and interests.

In addition, schools like Acton Academy place a strong emphasis on character development and social-emotional learning. They recognize that these skills are just as important as academic knowledge in preparing students for success in the 21st century.