Schools: Classical education in Catholic schools

Guest columnist 

Classical education has been a cornerstone of Catholic schools for centuries. Rooted in the rich intellectual tradition of the Church, classical education aims to cultivate the minds and souls of students by providing them with a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum. It is an approach to learning that has its roots in ancient Greece and Rome and was seen as a means to cultivate virtuous individuals who could contribute to their communities in a well-rounded, intellectual, and discerning manner. 

The early Christian Church adopted this approach to education as it sought to preserve knowledge and foster intellectual growth while instilling moral values, and now, more than ever, with the barrage of secular influences trying to insert various agendas into the mainstream public education system, the significance of classical education in Catholic schools and how it aligns with the principles and values upheld by the Catholic Church cannot be understated. 

Classical education is based on three stages known as the trivium: grammar (the study of language), logic (the study of reasoning), and rhetoric (the study of effective communication). These stages correspond with different developmental phases in a child’s life. 

In the grammar stage (typically grades K-4), students focus on building foundational skills such as reading comprehension, writing proficiency, vocabulary acquisition, memorization techniques, basic math concepts, history facts, scientific observations – all within a context that emphasizes the importance of moral values and character formation. 

The logic stage (generally grades 5-8) is where students learn to analyze and evaluate information, make logical connections, and engage in thoughtful discussions. 

Lastly, the rhetoric stage (typically grades 9-12) focuses on effective communication across all disciplines, with the goal of equipping students with the ability to express themselves eloquently while defending their ideas with clarity and conviction. 

In addition to fostering intellectual growth, classical education plays a vital role in spiritual formation within Catholic schools. The integration of faith into every aspect of learning distinguishes Catholic schools from their secular counterparts. Classical education provides a framework that aligns seamlessly with Catholic teachings by emphasizing truth-seeking through reason and faith. The study of philosophy, for instance, even on an elementary level, allows students to explore profound questions about the nature of God, the purpose of life, and ethical dilemmas. The integration of theology into classical education ensures that students not only acquire knowledge but also grow spiritually through prayer, reflection, and participation in sacraments. 

Classical education also places great importance on character development. In Catholic schools, character formation is deeply rooted in the principles of virtue ethics. Students are taught to cultivate virtues such as humility, integrity, courage, and compassion through practical examples drawn from classical literature and historical figures. These stories serve as moral lessons that inspire students to emulate virtuous characters while avoiding moral pitfalls. 

Furthermore, classical education encourages students to develop self-discipline through rigorous academic pursuits. The demanding curriculum challenges them to work diligently and persevere through difficulties, and this discipline extends beyond academics, as it fosters habits of responsibility and resiliency. 

Catholic schools are committed to providing an education that integrates faith into every aspect of learning, and classical education aligns well with this goal, as it emphasizes the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty – principles deeply rooted in Catholic teachings. The study of classical literature exposes students to timeless stories that explore moral dilemmas, virtues such as courage and justice, and the consequences of human actions. By engaging with these texts through a Catholic lens, students can reflect on how these themes relate to their own lives and deepen their understanding of Christian values. 

Moreover, classical education encourages contemplation and reflection – practices that are central to the Catholic faith. This intellectual engagement fosters a deeper connection between faith and reason while nurturing spiritual growth. 

Classical education has historically held immense importance in Catholic schools due to its significant contributions to intellectual development, spiritual formation, and moral character development, and it remains a cornerstone by which strong Catholic schools can flourish. By providing a comprehensive curriculum rooted in tradition while integrating faith into every aspect of learning, Catholic schools equipped with classical education offer an educational experience that nurtures well-rounded individuals prepared for both academic success and moral integrity in this life and the life everlasting. 

Melissa Marti is principal Queen of Peace Catholic School in Cloquet.