ACADEMICS

Classical Education

Researching the programs and disciplines of Classical Education (Classicism) and classical schools produces a wide spectrum of philosophies and practices. For that reason, Christ Lutheran School (CLS) has developed a succinct explanation of how classical education is implemented in our learning environment. There are four styles of classical education: Christian Classicism, Moral Classicism, Social Classicism, and Liberating Classicism. Each requires a mention because CLS uses qualities of each in creating our uniquely balanced academic and spiritual environment.

Christ Lutheran School is equipping the future generations of Christian leaders through Biblically-based, Christian studies and faith development to develop a deep love relationship with God, while simultaneously offering an academically challenging climate with the following three major goals classical components:

Christian Classicism: The “Christian, Historical Worldview” is the foundation: History is the central focus of the curriculum and history is taught as God’s Story (His Story). CLS components: History is taught from a Biblical and Christian perspective; Courses in history are taught not social studies; Christianity is central in all we do.

Moral and Democratic Classicism: This is the traditional, classical, Greek thought that through knowledge, students will become good, moral people and good citizens. It is rooted in the Great Books of literature. CLS components: Reading curriculum uses classic literature and Christian values are taught through the literature. Classical literature is (1) Tested over time, (2) Often award winners, (3) Has rich language, and (4) Teaches a moral.

Liberating Classicism: This philosophy is grounded in discipline and structure, often in association with inner city programs, focused on liberating students from their current circumstance. CLS component: A strong, appropriate emphasis on proper behavior, Christian values, and decorum.

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PROFICIENT READERS

  • Multi-sensory, phonics-based reading instruction.
  • Two grammar courses are used per grade, Shurley and Spalding, for a full experience.
  • Classic literature is literature that has been over time, teaches virtues, and/or is award-winning. Classic literature is used for reading instruction, not reading textbooks, for authentic reading experiences.
  • Latin, the root of 60% of the English language, is taught kindergarten through eighth grade.
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ELOQUENT WRITERS

  • A systematic writing process is in place kindergarten through eighth grade.
  • The writing process includes composition, grammar, and communication.
  • We work to teach our students that clear, concise, eloquent writing is the expectation. Excellent writing is the norm, brilliant writing is that for which we strive.

DEEP LOGICAL THINKERS

  • All students are tracked for pre-algebra in seventh grade and algebra in eighth grade.
  • Fun, logic puzzles (Mind Benders and Red Herrings) are used in each grade.
  • Students receive three years of logic classes starting in sixth grade.

Additional Classical Components:

Researching the programs and disciplines of Classical Education (Classicism) and classical schools produces a wide spectrum of philosophies and practices. For that reason, Christ Lutheran School (CLS) has developed a succinct explanation of how classical education is implemented in our learning environment. There are four styles of classical education: Christian Classicism, Moral Classicism, Social Classicism, and Liberating Classicism. Each requires a mention because CLS uses qualities of each in creating our uniquely balanced academic and spiritual environment.

  • Latin is taught in kindergarten through 8th grade
  • Art instruction and art appreciation
  • Music theory and music appreciation
  • Memorization-Bible passages,
    Presidents, States, History Timeline, & more
  • History in place of social studies; Christian worldview
  • Embracing the Grammar (K-4) and Logic (5-8) stages of the Classical Education Trivium model

For more information about Classical Education, CLICK HERE.

Latin

Why Latin?

This is a good question for anyone contemplating investing several years of study… Dorothy Sayers points out that when you study Latin, you are doing advanced study in several subjects simultaneously.  Here are those other subjects studied in and through Latin:
    • Professions steeped in Latin vocabulary: law, medicine, science, music, art, philosophy, theology
    • Romance Languages: Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese and Romanian are all forms of Latin.
    • Educational Virtues: The study of Latin requires concentration, analysis, and puzzle-solving that develop a student as a student.
      It also helps gifted students to slow down and attend!
    • English Vocabulary: 50% of all English words come from Latin; 90% of all polysyllabic words from Latin.
    • English Grammar: The regular grammar of Latin is ideal for shedding light on the way all languages work—including English.
    • Writing/Reading: An increased vocabulary and understanding of grammar enable students to write and read with greater ease and clarity.
    • Pleasure: Deciphering the “secret code” of Latin and reading great authors in their own tongue is a pleasure that can last a lifetime.

CLICK HERE to see an article written by Karen Moore, a well-known Latin author and educator.

Fine Arts

The Arts are a significant part of Classical education. Once a month students will receive Art Appreciation instruction and students will have a weekly choir session. Twice a year, our students sing during church services. There are additional events in which we participate such as the KC Symphony, singing for local hospitals and nursing homes, and education trips to the Nelson Atkins Museum. In addition, several of our students are involved with local youth theater productions.

Christ Lutheran School

11720 Nieman Road
Overland Park, KS 66210

Contact us at: 
913.754.5888

amy.rose@clcop.org

School Hours

1st Bell – 8:15 am
Learning Begins – 8:30 am
Dismissal – 3:30 pm

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