Curriculum & Academic Programs

Classical education is a liberal arts-based approach that focuses on developing critical thinking and communication skills through a three-stage "Trivium": grammar, logic, and rhetoric. It teaches students to gather knowledge (grammar), understand how ideas connect (logic), and then articulate their conclusions eloquently (rhetoric). 

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"Our goal is to teach students HOW to think, not WHAT to think."

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Some classical schools place less importance on mathematics than literacy. At Cornerstone Prep, we approach mathematics with the same fervor as we do reading. We also recognize that for many students the learning of mathematical concepts can feel like learning a foreign language, and for that reason, all math instruction is delivered through multi-learning style, research-backed teaching methods. 

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The study of Latin improves English and foreign language acquisition skills, develops mental discipline, and provides a deeper understanding of Western civilization. Latin serves as a gateway to the original texts of ancient Roman and European literature, law, and philosophy, and provides a foundation for understanding complex academic and scientific vocabulary. 

Using a systematic process of explicit phonics instruction, we follow a research-based approach to ensuring that all students learn to become strong readers. Our literacy instruction begins with phonemic awareness then moves to sound-spelling patterns.

We additionally provide our families Homework Help Tutorials and Parent Tip Nights, to give families the additional tools to help children at home.

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Using primary-source documents and factual records, students learn U.S. and World history through honest and transparent study; real people and actual events. History is taught in a chronological approach, which helps students comprehend historical concepts and their impact on a global scale. Our school teaches the Western tradition with an unapologetic understanding that while no civilization has been without fault, our nation was founded on the honorable principles of: Freedom, Justice, Liberty, Equality, and the individual's right to the Pursuit of Happiness.

Study of the fine arts explores art and music masterworks, connecting them to history and philosophy. Our approach to the study of the fine arts develops critical listening and viewing skills, while fostering creativity and a deeper understanding of cultural heritage. Lessons integrate the arts with other subjects and study goes beyond performance to include analysis, theory, and appreciation, with an emphasis on concepts like beauty, order, and harmony

Classical reading starts for our youngest scholars (K-2) with foundational phonics and progresses through age-appropriate read-alouds of children's classics. Our older grammar students (3rd-5th) begin to learn the critical reading skills to understand elements of stories and the varying perspectives of characters, helping students move into deeper analysis of "great books" from Western civilization. Our classical texts & curriculum are always open for parent review. We believe parents have the right to know what their child is learning at all times. ​

We teach science by first helping students build a solid foundation of scientific concepts and facts that are connected to the world around us. Students begin by learning fundamental vocabulary, concepts, and skills. They are then taught to observe the natural world, and ask questions that stimulate curiosity, which then builds a logical framework for scientific understanding and further scientific exploration. Students learn through engaging in frequent hands-on, exploratory activities and labs. ​

Classical environments seek to train students in the building of positive character, and we believe one of the best places to accomplish this is in the area of Physical Education. Here students develop and hone their physical agility, flexibility, and self-control. They learn that obstacles are opportunities to develop and strengthen skills to overcome and achieve. They learn sportsmanship and teamwork, as they build strength and endurance.