What Is Expected of Students in the CLAA Program?

What Is Expected of Students in the CLAA Program?

The Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) offers a return to the traditional Catholic system of education—the classical liberal arts—restoring the path followed by the greatest saints and scholars of the Church. Because this program is rooted in a higher and older standard of learning, the expectations for students are serious and clear. CLAA students are not merely “completing courses” but pursuing the formation of their intellect and character.

1. Commitment to Classical Catholic Studies

Students in the CLAA are expected to devote themselves to true learning. They study the classical liberal arts, philosophy, and theology as handed down through the Catholic tradition, using the best sources:

  • The Catholic Bible
  • The Catechism of the Catholic Church
  • The writings of St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Augustine, and Aristotle

Students are expected to follow the curriculum faithfully, respecting the order and method by which wisdom is obtained.

2. Independent and Orderly Study Habits

A hallmark of a classical student is self-discipline. Students are expected to:

  • Study daily and steadily.
  • Keep their work organized and complete each lesson in sequence.
  • Take responsibility for their progress without constant prompting.
  • Respect the order and method of the program.

This independent habit of study forms the foundation for success in the liberal arts.

3. Mastery Over Grades

Modern education is often built around minimal standards and passing grades. CLAA education is different. Advancement depends on true mastery, not time spent or grades averaged. Students must:

  • Demonstrate clear understanding of their lessons.
  • Achieve a high standard on assessments (normally 90% or higher).
  • Correct their errors and return to lessons until they are mastered.

This ensures that learning is real and lasting, not superficial.

4. Moral and Spiritual Formation

Classical Catholic education unites intellectual formation with moral and spiritual growth. Students are expected to:

  • Pursue virtue and good character.
  • Respect Catholic moral teaching.
  • Study with reverence, as part of their duty to God.

Every lesson is part of a student’s spiritual formation, not merely an academic task.

5. Perseverance Over Time

The liberal arts cannot be mastered quickly. Students are expected to:

  • Commit to years of steady study.
  • Avoid rushing through lessons or seeking shortcuts.
  • Accept challenge and difficulty as part of real learning.

Classical education forms wise and virtuous men and women, and this requires patience.

6. Respect for Authority and Tradition

CLAA students are expected to trust and respect the Church’s educational tradition:

  • Accepting that the classical liberal arts are a higher standard than modern trends.
  • Submitting to the structure and expectations of the program.
  • Honoring the wisdom of those who came before them.

Learning in this tradition means joining a living heritage of Catholic scholarship.

Summary

A CLAA student is expected to be:

  • Serious in study
  • Disciplined in habits
  • Committed to masteryRooted in virtue and faith

These expectations ensure that students not only learn well but are formed in mind and soul according to the Catholic tradition.