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Is it hard for a student to move into classical education in the later grades?
Yes and no. In general, younger students (up to 4th grade) have an easier time transitioning into classes. That isn't to say, however, that older students aren't able to succeed. If a new student is hardworking and motivated, our teachers will make every effort to support and encourage them as they "learn the ropes" of new classes and methods of teaching.
How do I know if a Christian Classical Education is “right" for my child?
Aletheia is probably right for your child if your expectations include:
• A learning environment which honors God.
• An approach to learning which encourages students’ thinking and exploration.
• A setting where students actively participate in their own learning.
• A school where high performance levels are the norm, not the exception.
• A place where students learn to be competent social human beings.
• An atmosphere which produces students who are fully prepared to succeed in college and beyond.
What is the purpose of Aletheia School?
Aletheia Means truth, and at its core, our mission is for each student to know the truth of the gospel, and to live the truth in their lives.
What are the core doctrines of Aletheia School?
We are not affiliated with any church or denomination. We affirm basic evangelical doctrines, and are committed to the historic doctrines of the reformation.
Do you take students who register mid-year?
Aletheia does accept late-enrolling students on a case-by-case basis. An additional fee (above and beyond the registration fee) may apply, however.
Do you have sports or extra-curricular activities?
We are interested in having sports teams someday, but will need more interested students in order to make that a reality. As for other extra-curricular activities, we offer violin lessons, plays, yearbook, field trips, and art.
What are the Hours that Aletheia School is in session?
Aletheia meets from 8am-12pm M-F. This allows extra time for students take part in other outside activities, and allows parents to be more actively involved in their children’s lives. For children who study best in a school environment, we also have a study hall from 12:30 to 2:00pm M-Th. Students must bring a lunch if they are planning to stay for the study hall.
Who teaches the classes?
The teachers of Aletheia are a mix of hired professionals and parent and non-parent volunteers. Acting as a parent volunteer may be a way for you to contribute to the education of your child. We strive to find the best qualified teachers possible, and all Aletheia teachers are hired based on the following criteria. First, teachers are required to be committed Christians that live out their faith on a day to day basis. Second, teachers are required to be competent in what they teach, and willing to learn. Third, they are expected to subscribe to the school doctrinal statement, and fourth, they are willing to be working to improve their skills through teacher development conferences and seminars. All teachers are required to submit to a criminal background check.
Can a parent also be a paid teacher?
The foundation of Aletheia's nurturing environment, excellence and low cost is high parental volunteer involvement. Volunteer parents know their children's peer environment, participate in the academic demands, and eliminate the need for paid teachers. While some parents may require a second income or have special teaching credentials, to pay a parent teacher would fundamentally alter the nature of our school. It would cause tuition to increase, other parent volunteers to request payment, and decrease the opportunity for parents to volunteer. We cannot pay parents for teaching unless we wish to make a shift to a full day, large class size, and large tuition type school.
Must I be a teacher for my children to attend Aletheia?
Aletheia could not exist if it weren't for parents who are willing to devote their time and energy to teaching classes. With enough volunteers, each teacher bears a lighter load and is able to teach with efficiency and energy. Exceptions have been made for parents to volunteer extra time to cleaning, administrative duties, and fundraising efforts, however.
How big are the classes?
Aletheia has capped class size at 8 students. In a smaller classroom, the students can receive more individualized instruction, and challenges can be more easily found, and these challenges can be turned into strengths.
How much does it cost?
Tuition for the 2009-10 school year is $125 a month for 10 months. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
How difficult is the curriculum?
To get a good idea of what each of our grades is doing, look at www.veritaspress.com and click on the "Browse by Grade" heading. Most of our curriculum comes from Veritas and Aletheia follows a very similar schedule for our classes--especially Latin, literature, grammar, and history. One exception is math. While we use Saxon math curriculum, we do begin with Saxon I in kindergarten (rather than Saxon K). This puts our math classes about 1 year ahead of public schools. New students are tested each summer to determine what level of math they will be placed in during the following school year.
What are parental responsibilities?
Aletheia does not operate as a traditional school does. In order to affordably offer an exceptional education, we require our parents to donate time to the school. Primarily, this will mean that they will teach classes, help with development, work on housekeeping, or use whatever their particular gifts are. Aletheia parents will be expected to give generously of their time toward the work of the school.
Who is in charge?
Aletheia is guided by a board of directors, many of whom are parents.
What curriculum do you use?
Most of our curriculum comes from Veritas Press. www.veritaspress.com
Specifically, our classes use the following texts:
Grammar--Shurley
Math--Saxon (Starting with Saxon I in Kindergarten) http://saxonpublishers.harcourtachieve.com/en-US/sxnm_home
Geometry--Jacobs http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/Homeschool_Reviews/reviews.php?rid=643
Latin--Latina Christiana, Wheelocks http://www.memoriapress.com/descriptions/Latina1.html
History--History cards from Veritas, and supplemental books (www.veritaspress.com)
Literature--Classic stories and books from Veritas, which vary from year to year
Reading and Phonics (grades K-2) The Writing & Spelling Road to Reading and Thinking ( www.riggsinst.org )
Spelling (grades 3-7)--The Phonetic Zoo (www.excellenceinwriting.com)
Composition--Student Writing Intensive from The Institute for Excellence in Writing ( www.excellenceinwriting.com )
What kind of curriculum do you use for Bible class?For Bible classes, we use Veritas Press Bible cards. www.veritaspress.com
Ultimately, Aletheia's goal of a Christian education is to have Christ woven throughout each subject, even throughout grammar, math, history, and literature.
What version of the Bible do you use?
Generally, when students memorize in class, the teachers use NIV, King James, or New American Standard. We consider the issue of KJV vs. other versions of the Bible a secondary doctrine that should not cause a breach of fellowship among believers.
Do you wear uniforms?
The children do wear uniforms. They can wear khaki or navy belted pants, white, light blue, red, or navy collared shirts, and any shoes except flops. The girls can wear skirts or jumpers in dark plaid, navy, or khaki, as well. Shorts and capris are also fine for the warmer weather months. Sweatshirts and sweaters can be worn over uniforms as long as they are in school colors.
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