Knowledge-Centered
As opposed to the popular “student-centered” approach to modern education, we believe in knowledge-centered education with a clear focus on direct instruction using tried and true methods. Teachers convey real knowledge through Mimetic (imitation), Didactic (knowledge acquisition), and Socratic (higher order thinking through thought provoking questioning) teaching methods, helping students pursue the ideal rather than the appetites of the individual.
Integrated Curriculum
We deliver a content-rich, coherent curriculum that includes literacy, math, science, history, art, music, classic literature, and Latin. This provides a solid foundation in the liberal arts and sciences – bolstered by a firm grasp of language and mathematics. As our students advance through grades, it is organized to allow for a deeper understanding of the subject matter producing a foundation of knowledge and skills that grows stronger each year.
Cultural Literacy
We embrace the importance of cultural literacy – that future generations should be literate in their American heritage in order to have a shared sense of cultural identity. Moreover, we believe that a certain extent of shared, canonical knowledge is inherently necessary to a literate democracy.
Traditional Methods
We believe in maintaining a disciplined, orderly, and uncluttered learning environment. The teacher leads the students from the front of the classroom and the students face the teacher. This minimizes distractions, instills respect for the teacher and their classmates, and provides a structured and more enjoyable environment where students can thrive.
Technology does not take the place of excellent teaching or become a crutch for our students.
Subjective Assessments
Although we believe in objective truths, our assessments are primarily subjective. Our teachers do not “teach to the test.” Students are required to answer questions in original, complete sentences, demonstrating their individual mastery of the content. Students think and communicate what they have learned in their own words.
Festina Lente “Make Haste Slowly”
Rather than moving quickly through topics and gleaning only the highlights, we strive for mastery of content, not simply to complete the assignment or pass a test, but for the knowledge to become a part of the fabric of who they are.
