The Great School of Great Works Guiding Principles of Perennialism & a Model School

Teaching Professionals Background in Education/ bachelor’s degree Diverse life experiences Philosophers Facilitators of Socratic questioning –O–One month orientation for new teachers, two weeks for returning teachers, annual event –“–“community of learners” approach

Demographics of School 6-12 grade students Small class size, students/class Public, charter school Diverse student body –50 different cultures represented –wide socio-economic span –Co-educational –Non-sectarian Located in Denver, CO

Application Process 1.Students must send a letter of intent 2.Include 3 letters of reference 3.Interview with members of teaching body 4.Make a commitment to academic excellence 5.Review process on semester basis with team of advisors to assess performance

Philosophy Young people will have active, engaged minds built on strong foundations of classic knowledge and wisdom from which they can act as leaders in our new, evolving society!

Accountability Bi-annual federal standardized testing Oral questioning with community of scholars Performance-based evaluation every semester by advisor groups

Culture Students must have active minds Teachers must by committed to lifelong learning; give students foundation of historical and cultural knowledge that enables them to positively contribute to society. Parents will support students’ learning –Creating a home culture that contributes to academic achievement –Responsible for extra-curricular enrichment

Questions Do you think this is a viable model for a school? Why or why not… How could it be better? If you were part of this school, would it work for you? As a student, a parent, a teacher? What is one vital skill all high school graduates should have mastery of in order to succeed in today’s society?