Classical Education

Faith Lutheran School is a Classical Lutheran School. The term classical calls many thoughts to mind. Some think of classical music and/or performing arts schools. Some think of the old English prep schools where boys and girls were separated, made to wear stiff uncomfortable clothing, and subjected to boring lectures and harsh rules. For others it calls up ideas of wealthy elitists banding together to avoid contact with the "commoners." None of these is what we mean by the term.

In education today there are a number of philosophies about the purpose of education and the methods that should be employed. The two main philosophies are "Progressive" and "Classical." Classical is also referred to as "Back to Basics," "Fundamental," and "Core Objectives." The basic difference between progressive and classical lies in the end results they are trying to achieve. Progressive education's main goal is to produce productive citizens who are able to hold down jobs. Classical education certainly provides students with the tools for securing jobs, however its higher goal is the betterment of all individuals and societies. Classical education is the cultivation of wisdom and virtue by nourishing the soul on truth, goodness, and beauty through a study of the seven Liberal Arts.