Education at Veritas Academy is intended to be inherently different in philosophy and content than that offered in the public schools. Veritas Academy offers a proven method for educating students to become confident and articulate thinkers. From grade 4 to 12, students learn to read perceptively, express themselves creatively, and grasp the great ideas that have shaped Western civilization thoroughly.
University Model
Under the assumption that the education of young people is the responsibility of parents, Veritas Academy comes alongside as a full-time or part-time educational experience. Students attend classes at the Veritas Academy campus two to three days per week, depending on the courses taken. They are expected to be completing coursework five days per week, including teacher-directed assignments at home. This approach teaches your child time management and study skills that will help them tremendously if they choose to attend college.
Classical Method
The classical method of education is a three-stage approach to instruction with the goal of producing graduates who have mastered the art of learning so that they may skillfully acquire and apply knowledge, reason critically, and articulate persuasively. Sometimes referred to as the Trivium, Latin for “three ways,” this approach consists of the grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages, each building upon its predecessor.
The Grammar Stage | Grades 1-4 (Elementary School):
In addition to acquiring basic reading, writing, and mathematical skills students should enjoy plenty of time outside to explore the world around them, have ready access to art supplies, and ample leisure time to think and imagine. Students can independently read a wide variety of quality fiction and nonfiction on their reading level, but also be exposed to literature above their reading level through the use of audiobooks and read-alouds. At VA mastery of mechanics, exposure to beauty, and love of learning are the main goals of this stage.
The Dialectic (Logic) Stage | Grades 5-8 (Middle School):
During the middle school years, students continue to enjoy all that is beautiful and virtuous, but they develop skills in logic and analysis that train them to think critically and deeply about subjects. This emphasis dovetails with the natural interest in questioning and understanding that takes place in adolescents.
The Rhetoric Stage | Grades 9-12 (High School):
The focus during the high school years shifts toward refining rhetorical skills, including both spoken and written communication. These skills prepare students to write college-level theses think logically and critically.