The CCS Difference
| COLORADO CLASSICAL SCHOOL | MOST MODERN SCHOOLS |
|---|---|
| No 1:1 technology; no phones, no screens | Screen & technology dependent |
| Fixed & integrated liberal arts curriculum with God as the source of all knowledge | Fragmented curriculum dictated by state |
| Teacher-led classrooms and instruction | Student-led and student-driven learning |
| Structured, ordered, & systematic | Fluid, unstructured, & dynamic |
| Explicit phonics & grammar instruction | “Balanced Literacy” approach |
| Culture of discipline & decorum built on virtue | Culture of self-care based on emotion |
| High-character, subject-matter expert faculty | State-licensed and state-trained teachers |
| Individual responsibility & accountability | Group & project-based performance |
| Merit grading on a traditional scale | Equitable grading for effort or “fairness” |
| Prioritizes physical education, art & music | Limited incorporation of “specials” |
| No state funding or control | State funded and regulated |
| Read classic literature & primary sources | Read excerpts & contemporary works |
| Transparency and partnership with parents | Management and limitation of parental role |
| Classical, biblical worldview | Modern, materialist worldview |
| Appreciation of high culture and the arts | Affinity for and adoption of pop culture norms |
| Latin required for all students | Latin not required or not offered at all |
| Knowledge and virtue as the goal, with Christ as the center | Productivity and good feelings as the goal |
Chart adapted from Columbus Classical School
