Classical Education WORKS!

About seven years ago, a sixth grader joined us who was struggling in every area. He was smart and capable, but his previous environment hadn’t provided him the support he needed. Many criticize me for valuing classical education, largely because the term itself can be contentious. I don’t have the luxury of time to debate its controversies; I’m too busy educating kids.

People often assume my focus is solely on Western tradition, but classical education is grounded in an ancient philosophy that emphasizes the necessity of foundational knowledge for genuine learning. Students must grasp the “grammar”—the building blocks of math, reading, history, science, and more—to truly understand how knowledge interconnects and narrates the story of our world and humanity. This learning unfolds in small, interconnected steps, gradually creating a larger understanding.

Ancient texts aren’t cherished merely for their European origins; they represent a wealth of knowledge meant to help us comprehend history and the world around us. They were written in times when diverse civilizations thrived, including African ones, reflecting this rich tapestry. For instance, the Ethiopian Eunuch understood Hebrew and recognized the ties among Ethiopia, Rome, and Jerusalem.

Since 2000, I’ve witnessed how classical education can mend the gaps in many children’s learning experiences. I refuse to back down from advocating for it because this age-old philosophy effectively equips students for academic success and helps heal the wounds from past educational challenges. When I first encounter a student facing difficulties, it can seem hopeless. But over time, I’ve seen a remarkable transformation in them. When parents collaborate with me—whether it’s getting tutors, allowing an extra year for graduation, or simply trusting The Living Water School’s classical approach—I’ve NEVER failed to witness something magical unfold.

The child who came to me years ago, so full of gaps, is now nearly ready to graduate—and he is more than prepared! My heart is full right now. You can criticize my passion for classical education all you want, but it works. Our ancestors understood this, from the pre-Alexander Egyptians, whom Socrates and Hippocrates learned from, to the Ethiopians who impressed Herodotus. From figures like Malcolm X and MLK to Du Bois and Douglass, to Chinua Achebe (who shares this in his memoir!), classical education truly WORKS! Only those of us scarred by slavery and Jim Crow fail to see how our ancestors viewed education as a feast for everyone, regardless of ethnicity.

I’m undeterred by the critics. I’ll continue to be here in this little school with a small budget, changing lives through a philosophy that has always liberated minds. We’re still enrolling!