The Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) is designed to help students grow into strong, self-directed learners. A key part of this process is the transition from parent-led study in the elementary years to independent study in the teen years. Parents play an essential role in preparing students for this independence by gradually shifting responsibility from direct supervision to structured oversight.
1. Preparing for Independence in the Elementary Years
- Parents should begin early to form good habits of attention, self-discipline, and responsibility.
- In the elementary years, parents work closely with children to:
- Establish consistent daily routines
- Build study habits and personal accountability
- Teach students how to use the Study Center and complete assessments
- These early years lay the foundation for students to work independently later.
2. Transitioning Around Ages 13–14
- By approximately age 13–14, students should be able to work independently in the CLAA program.
- At this stage, parents step back from daily instructional involvement and focus on administrative and supervisory responsibilities.
- Students begin to:
- Log in to the Study Center daily
- Complete lessons, quizzes, exams, and written assignments on their own
- Monitor their own progress using reports and feedback tools
3. Parent Oversight Through Enrollment and Records
- Parents continue to manage subscriptions and enrollments through:
- Each student has their own Study Center account for accurate records.
- Parents no longer need to manage daily coursework but remain responsible for:
- Enrollment management
- Oversight of progress reports
- Support coordination when needed
4. Using Reports for Oversight
- Parents can review their student’s work at any time using built-in reports:
- Course Tasks Done (recent activity)
- Course Tasks To Do (upcoming work)
- Instructional Time (time spent on lessons)
- Progress and Transcript reports (for term or year)
- These tools provide complete visibility without requiring daily micromanagement.
5. Support for Independent Students
- As students work more independently, they can:
- Use the CLAA Help Center to get answers to academic or technical questions
- Schedule tutoring sessions when they need targeted support
- Participate in Studium classes (coming soon) for structured enrichment and academic engagement
- These resources give students the support they need to take responsibility for their own learning.
6. Encouraging Ownership and Growth
- Independent study teaches students to take initiative, manage time, and persevere in their work.
- Parents should continue to hold students accountable through consistent oversight of reports and progress.
- With proper preparation, students can accomplish more in less time and build the discipline needed for advanced studies.
Summary
- Parents should use the elementary years to train students in the habits of independent learning.
- Around age 13–14, students should begin managing their own daily coursework while parents provide oversight.
- Parents handle enrollment and accountability, while students use the Study Center, assessments, reports, and support channels independently.
- Tutoring and Studium classes provide additional structure and support as needed.
- This gradual transition prepares students for serious, self-directed study in the classical tradition.