An Accredited, Classical Education
We deliver a time-tested approach to learning that focuses on training students to think critically, learn systematically, and communicate effectively. It is based on the trivium, a three-part process that guides students through different stages of learning as they mature. There is a gradual release of learning to the student as their age increases through strategies such as the Socratic Seminar.
Trivium
Grammar Stage
During the elementary school years (typically grades one through four), students absorb information and lay the foundation for advanced study. Students’ brains are like sponges at this stage! They enjoy learning facts including the rules of phonics, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and more. Students enjoy memorization and are driven by their innate curiosity.
Dialectic Stage
Around fifth grade, students transition to the logic stage where they begin to think more analytically, asking “Why?” and exploring cause-and-effect relationships. Logic is applied to various subjects, including algebra, writing, reading, history, and science.
Rhetoric Stage
In high school, students build upon the grammar and logic stages. They learn to express themselves eloquently and persuasively as they grow in knowledge and understanding. Students begin to refine their passions and consider career and college paths.
History
We immerse students in the lively study of history from the Stone Age through the Space Age. Students experience the broad sweep of history from its beginning and discover how their own time and place fits into the pattern of human civilization.
Literature
Our classical approach is rooted in the history and culture of the Western world and encourages deep and thoughtful reading and writing within a moral/ethical framework. Foundational skills are built on explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, grammar, vocabulary, and handwriting instruction. Literature selections are traditional in titles and content (Wind in the Willows, Aesop’s Fables, Treasure Island, etc.)
Art
Students learn the vocabulary, principals of design, and elements of art through hands-on instruction creating art in a wide variety of mediums and styles. They are introduced to the artistic masters from ancient to modern times.
How We ACCELerate Learning
Our school is built on a strong foundation of high expectations for academic achievement for all students. Within our classical framework, we implement the ACCEL Instructional Model (AIM) which focuses on four key components to achieve strong academic results:
Individualized Instruction
Students participate in a variety of learning activities each day that individualize instruction for each subject area. Students receive whole-class instruction, small group instruction, and individual instruction with teachers, technology and other curricular tools.
Properly Certified & Licensed Teachers
Our teachers meet the requirements set forth by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): Bachelor’s degree, grade-level teaching license/certificate & ability to demonstrate subject-area expertise. Our teachers are supported by trainers and participate in continuous, research-based professional development. Our teachers are accountable for student learning and rewarded for high-quality performance.
More Time on Task
Our students receive double the instruction in ELA and Math to provide a strong foundation for all learning. Beginning with full-day Kindergarten, our school also follows a longer school day and school year than many other schools.
Short Cycle Assessments & Data-Driven Instruction
Student knowledge of academic standards is assessed formally and informally in short cycles by each teacher. Our teachers adjust class-level and individual instruction based on student performance in these frequent intervals.
Recent News
Special Education
Clarksburg Classical Academy works to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of all students.
