Our seventh through twelfth grade classes, collectively called our Secondary program, serve students in the dialectic and rhetoric stages, where learning centers on debate, philosophy, integration, and meaningful conversation. Through these disciplines, students cultivate a biblical worldview and a love for truth, goodness, and beauty.

We emphasize a robust Classical Christian education, guiding discussions through the five common topics: definition, comparison, relationship, circumstance, and testimony. As students advance, they embrace the canons of rhetoric with particular focus on invention, arrangement, and elocution. The program culminates in a senior thesis that reflects years of classical study. Each Community Day begins with Assembly, uniting primary and secondary students in worship and Scripture memory.

Class Structure and Scheduling

Generally, students of the same age take their classes together to encourage integration and strong classroom dynamics. Latin and other second languages, however, are scheduled at the same time for all ages, allowing students to progress at their own pace.  Latin is the sole secondary language in seventh- and eighth-grade classes, as it is the foundation of all Romance languages and a hallmark of Classical education. When enrollment is low for a given language, classes may be consolidated across levels. This flexibility strengthens the Secondary program while maintaining depth and rigor.

Curriculum Framework

We use a variety of curricula that are adjusted for a 30-week school year and meet California university enrollment requirements.

Magnum Opus Projects

Each stage includes a magnum opus that fosters creativity, planning, and pride of workmanship:

Seventh Grade:

• Science Fair - Students design and present original experiments.

• Cartography - Students learn world geography through drawing the whole world.

Eighth Grade:

• Mock Trial - Practical courtroom experience that builds logic, collaboration, and empathy. 

• Short Story Publication - students analyze elements of short stories and then write a short story that is published

Ninth Grade:

• Economics Project - A hands-on simulation of personal finance and life decisions.

• Science Research Paper- Personal selection with in-depth research and scientific paper writing.

Tenth Grade:

• Art Grant Project - Students engage in formal project presentations.

• Debate - Students engage in formal debates, applying dialectical and rhetorical skills.

Eleventh Grade:

• Shakespearean Play or Poetry Reading and Interpretation - Dramatic presentation of Shakespearean passages and original poetry.

Twelfth Grade:

• Senior Thesis - An in-depth, independent project addressing a societal issue, culminating in a public presentation as the final demonstration of mastery.

Additionally, Protocol outings for students in grades nine through twelve provide opportunities to practice etiquette, conversation, and poise in formal settings.