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The mission of The Classical Academy of Sarasota is to develop the academic potential of each student through a rigorous, content-rich, classical liberal arts education while building in them a virtuous character.
Our purpose is to develop graduates who are logical thinkers, coherent writers, eloquent speakers, thoughtful leaders and responsible virtuous citizens.
TCA is a place of serious study where passionate teachers instill a love of learning in students, where lifelong habits of virtue and excellence are formed.
The Classical Academy of Sarasota is dedicated to the classical
model of education. A classical education creates a well-rounded
student with a logical mind and a virtuous heart. It is built upon
the best of the Western traditional canon through curriculum and
philosophy which acknowledges current understanding of child
development and growth.
Classical education instills in students a large body of
factual knowledge, trains them to logically organize and analyze
these facts, and gives them the tools to put forth a reasoned and
persuasive argument. Classically educated students are coherent,
thoughtful and eloquent writers and speakers who are grounded in
virtue. Classical education focuses on a rigorous and content-rich
core in which academic marks are given for mastery,not for effort,
in every subject. Classical education emphasizes excellence in
everything from the literature read to the quality of each
assignment completed by students. Acquiring knowledge is highly
valued, and moving beyond the ability to simply pass a
test,classical education advances this acquisition in order to
createl ogical and articulate citizens.
Classical education has a rich 2500 year history. It began in
the time of Plato and Aristotle, matured during the Middle Ages,
and continued as the predominant form of education for America's
Founders. Educational trends come and go but the classical approach
is timeless, rigorous and still relevant. A classical education is
distinguished by:
A Back toBasics Approach
Classical education is a back to basics education. All core
subjects are taught with the goal of building a foundation of
knowledge. Classical education emphasizes content-rich literature,
a deep understanding of history, thefundamental principles in math
and science, and a deep appreciation for art and music. Rather than
moving quickly through topics and gleaning only the highlights,
classical education advocates for the mastery of subjects.
Classical education places a clear focus on direct instruction.
Teachers are the experts in the classroom, providing direct
instruction. Students are not placed in pods around the room, left
to learn through self-discovery and group projects.Technology does
not take the place of excellent instruction or instructors.
Teaching facts and directing students with logical questions are
the guiding principles in every classroom. Teachers do not rely on
worksheets, fill in the blank, or multiple choice. Instead,
students are taught to answer in complete sentences and create from
a blank slate. Classical education strives for mastery of the
content, not simply to complete the assignment or pass a test, but
for the knowledge to become a part of the fabric of who they
are.
A Focus on Moral Virtue Virtue is foundational in a classical
education. From the time of the ancients to theFounders of America,
classical education holds that the practicing of virtue is the key
to true happiness. Anchoring education in the four ancient virtues
of temperance (self-control),prudence(wisdom),fortitude (courage),
and justice teaches students to learn the true, do the good, and
love the beautiful. Virtue is taught in all grades throughout the
curriculum. Classical literature and the study of history offers
students enduring examples of virtue and vice to look to when
asking the question, how then should I live? Great conversations
centered on these characters are fostered within the classrooms.
Virtue is modelled by teachers and expected from the students. To
educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to
society. ~ Theodore Roosevelt
Curriculum Rooted in History
Classical education draws fromthe bestof the WesternCanon. It
relies on the character, thoughts,andideas of the greatmen and
women who have preceded us. What students study and read is not
just great because it is old but because it is timeless. Aristotle,
Augustine, Shakespeare, Euclid,Homer, and many others are the
giants upon whose shoulders classical education is built.
Introducing young students to the greatest individuals and events
from history lays the foundation for greater depth of learning as
they grow. History is the backbone of a coherent study of all
subjects.
A Standard of Excellence
Classical education emphasizes excellence in all areas.
Students learn excellence through the example of their teachers and
the curriculum taught in class.Excellence is expected in
everything, from academic work to behavior throughout the school
day. Students who are trained in the habit of excellence and are
constantly striving to do their best, from their penmanship to the
way they dress, are prepared to be successful at whatever they do.
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a
habit. ~Aristotle
The Study of Latin
Over 60% of the English language is rooted in Latin.Studying
Latin enriches vocabulary and grammar,creates a strong sense of
organization in writing, and improves literacy and reading
comprehension. A strong knowledge of Latin advances understanding
in both math and science as well and students who study Latin
consistently score higher in all subject areas of standardized
tests, as well as on the verbal portion of the SAT.Latin
instruction begins in kindergarten and continues through high
school.
A Strong Civic Understanding
Classical education stresses a strong civic understanding. In
order to become virtuous and productive citizens, students must
understand Americas founding principles, including the concepts of
inalienable rights,natural law, American constitutionalism and the
free market system. Students will not only read the Constitution
and Declaration of Independence, but understand them. Educate and
inform the whole mass of the people They are the only sure reliance
for the preservation of our liberty. ~ Thomas Jefferson
How much does The Classical Academy Of Sarasota cost?
The Classical Academy Of Sarasota's tuition is approximately $12,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of The Classical Academy Of Sarasota?
The acceptance rate of The Classical Academy Of Sarasota is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 81%.
What sports does The Classical Academy Of Sarasota offer?
The Classical Academy Of Sarasota offers 15 interscholastic sports: Archery, Baseball, Basketball, Cheering, Cross Country, Cross Fit, Drill Team, Fencing, Flag Football, Football, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Track and Field and Volleyball. The Classical Academy Of Sarasota is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in Florida for most sports offered.
What is The Classical Academy Of Sarasota's ranking?
TCA holds a special place in our hearts! My son and daughter both graduated from here, and I can''t thank the teachers and staff enough for the care and high-quality education they provided. Seeing the school thrive and grow is amazing, and we are so excited to see the new campus on Bee Ridge Rd. Once a Patriot, always a Patriot!
- Posted by Parent - Parent of two TCA graduates
56/7/2021
TCA is a rare jewel. Once you discover it, you can only realize his value and his beauty. We had this privilege last summer and we cant be more grateful to all of TCA staff and families. Our kids, 5th and 7th grade, found a precious sense of community and deep sense of virtuous learning. As every jewel, TCA needs to be protected and supported in every small aspect. Thank you so much for this opportunity to grow up with your values and vision.
- Posted by Parent - TCA New Family
55/20/2021
I have three grandsons that attended or are presenting attending TCA. I am beyond thrilled at the education they are receiving. The faculty is outstanding, each giving not only an outstanding education to the students but also encouragement, support, and positive mentoring. The classical education returns to basics; how to read, how to think, how to speak, students are encouraged to expand their minds using these tools, preparing them fully for the future. To top it off, students are taught virtue and honor, thus giving them knowledge and good character!
- Posted by Parent - TCA Grandmother to 3 young men
54/1/2021
This is such a wonderful school that not only provides the utmost instruction in a classical education but also strives to model students with character instruction and the institution of patriotism and love for our country. There is a wonderful sense of community for the family as a whole, not just the pupil. Kids are also encouraged to be kids with twice daily recess and plenty of physical education, which is found lacking in many of the today's schools. I have a pre-k, 1st grade, and 3rd grade student who are all thriving here. The staff and all the teachers show genuine care for my 3 children and I get a sense that they enjoy their time with the children versus it just being a job to them. So glad I found this school for my children!
- Posted by Parent - Srqmom
54/27/2020
We love TCA! I have a child in middle school and in high school at TCA. The teachers are amazing as they provide not only the highest academic standards but also go above and beyond to show the students they care about their emotional and social wellbeing. The upper school spends time with the younger students whether it be visiting with them at lunch, reading and acting out stories in class, or providing free tutoring. The school fosters a sense of community throughout and students of every grade benefit. I have also been highly impressed by how the school has handled remote learning. Absolutely amazing! They have shown patience, humor and dedication throughout, and we all appreciate it! So glad we found TCA!
- Posted by Parent - TCA Parent
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The average private school tuition in Sarasota, FL is $16,370 for elementary schools and $18,436 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
