Anchored by the Classic Learning Test

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Michael Schell, Headmaster of Sparhawk Academy and founder of the Sparhawk Institute, where he works to equip college counselors for their meaningful work with students. They discuss the state of school athletics, single-sex education, and Michael makes the case that the best counselors do far more than manage applications – they help young people understand who they are, what they are called to, and how to choose a path with wisdom instead of anxiety.

References:

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Eric Daniels, the Assistant Director of the Snow Institute for the Study of Capitalism (SISC) at Clemson University. They explore the intricate connections between education, capitalism, and moral formation. Eric also shares about how the Lyceum Scholars Program is shaping the next generation of American leaders. 

In this episode, we're spotlighting the amazing work being done at Delaware Valley Classical School in New Castle, Delaware. Adam Roate, CLT's Senior Director of Partnerships, talks to Anthony Urti, Head of School at DVCS and a board member of the Association of Classical Christian Schools. Anthony shares the significant role that parent partnerships and music play in his school's success.

References:
– A History of Education in Antiquity by Henri Marrou
– "How to Tell a Flatterer From a Friend” in Plutarch’s Moralia
– The Rector of Justin by Louis Auchincloss
– John Senior and the Restorat...

In today’s episode, Soren speaks to Margaret Walsh, Founder and Director of Secret Garden Educational Pathways and author of A Catholic Approach to Literacy for Struggling Students. Margaret shares insights from her research on literacy development, speaks to the importance of foundational reading skills, and unpacks how a humane philosophical framework can inform effective teaching strategies for struggling students.

References:

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Dr. Leonard Sax, Director of the Montgomery Center for Research in Child & Adolescent Development and author of several books, including The Collapse of Parenting, Why Gender Matters, Boys Adrift, and Girls on the Edge. They discuss the decline of traditional parenting, the advantages of single-sex education, and how understanding gender differences can improve educational outcomes for boys and girls. 

References:

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Kendel Ehrlich, former First Lady of Maryland and current Executive Director of the American Journalism Institute. They discuss the shifting landscape of politics and journalism, social media's role in those changes, and Kendel's work training the next generation of young journalists with the Daily Caller News Foundation.

References
– Bottom Line with Bob and Kendel Ehrlich
– The American Journalism Institute
– kendel@dcnf.org
– To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Miriam Washut, winner of the inaugural Presidential 1776 Award competition and daughter of Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College and a member of CLT's Board of Academic Advisors. Learn about her journey to the White House and how her love for reading and classical education shaped her success.

References:

In this episode, Adam Mangana, President and CEO of OptimaEd, returns to The Anchored Podcast to speak with Jeremy about the role of technology in education, the future of AI, and how to navigate tech decisions in schools.

References:

– "Adam Mangana on Launching the World's First Virtual Reality Charter School"
– www.optimaacademy.online

In this episode, Soren speaks with Russ York, Head of the Ambleside School in Fredericksburg, TX. Russ shares about his journey from public schools to Charlotte Mason philosophy, emphasizing the importance of a formative education rooted in humility and Mason's three principles of education: atmosphere, discipline, and life. 

Thank you to the sponsor of today's episode: History 250. Visit their website to delve deep into America's rich and complex history: https://www.history250.org/ 

References: 

– For the Children's Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macaulay
– Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

In this episode, we are continuing our series of School Spotlights with an interview of Rich Meyer, President of JSerra Catholic High School, and Patrick Reidy, VP of Mission & Faith. Soren speaks with them about JSerra's unique position, its innovative programs, and the school's dedication to faith-based education in shaping future leaders. 

References:

– Searching for and Maintaining Peace by Father Jacques Philippe

– The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis

In this episode, Soren speaks with Nadya Williams, author of Christians Reading Classics: An Introduction to Greco-Roman Classics from Homer to Boethius, about the importance of reading the pagan classics through a Christian lens. They explore how slow, attentive reading of ancient texts can shape moral imagination and civic virtue.

Nadya is Books Editor at Mere Orthodoxy and Interim Director of the MFA in Creative Writing at Ashland University. Be sure to grab a copy of Christians Reading Classics wherever books are sold!

In this episode, Dr. Allen C. Guelzo speaks with Jeremy about the origins of historical study, the importance of history in shaping virtue, and the significance of narrative in education, especially within the classical tradition. Dr. Guelzo also shares about his purpose and process in writing The Golden Thread, a two-volume history of the Western tradition he co-authored with James Hankins. Be sure to check out The Golden Thread Substack to learn more about Dr. Guelzo's work. 

In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Andrew Shivone, President of the St. Jerome Institute, shares about his transformation from a young student who questioned the purpose of education into a leader who is helping revitalize Catholic and classical education in America today. He and Jeremy explore the history, challenges, and future of Catholic education, emphasizing the importance of integrating faith and tradition into the curriculum.

In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Michael Rose, Founding Headmaster and Superintendent of Cincinnati Classical Academy, shares his journey from architecture studies to education, emphasizing the importance of moral formation and aesthetic beauty in schools. Discover how Cincinnati Classical is shaping the next generation with a focus on virtue, history, and craftsmanship.

In this episode, Noah Tyler sits down with Dr. Ashley Berner, the co-founder and director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy (IEP) and Associate Professor of Education. Dr. Berner talks about the importance of educational pluralism, the role of values in school success, and the significance of a content-rich education. She explores historical shifts in American education, the impact of curriculum choices, and how assessment can drive better learning outcomes.

References:
– Pluralism and American Public Education: No One Way to School by Ashley Berner
– Educational Pluralism and Democracy by Ashley Berner
– Left Back...

Today on The Anchored Podcast, Soren speaks with James Shuls, Head of the Education Liberty Branch of the Institute for Governance and Civics at Florida State University. Dr. Shuls shares his journey from disengaged public school student in Missouri to a leading education policy expert. He discusses the history of school choice, its relationship to the civil rights movement, and the innovative work taking place at Florida State University to promote classical and civic education.

References:

In this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy speaks with Thomas Maloney, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Lansing. Thomas shares his journey from growing up in a Catholic family to leading Catholic education in Lansing, Michigan. He discusses the decline of Catholic education in America, the challenges it faces today, and the renewal currently taking place in Catholic schools. He emphasizes the importance of faith, culture, and the Catholic intellectual tradition in shaping future generations.

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Soren Schwab is joined by Sam Bruce, Director of Philosophy and Education at the Prosperity Institute. Together, they discuss Sam's unique educational journey, the importance of liberal arts education, and the role of philosophy in public life. Sam shares insights on the significance of the Edington Fellowship, which encourages, equips, and connects early-career professionals with a vocational commitment to serving in the public square. They also explore the meaning of prosperity and the relevance of great books in shaping public policy. 

https://www.prosperity.com/

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Adam Roate, Senior Director of Partnerships at CLT, is joined by Kevin Seitz, Dean of Academics at Cary Christian School in Cary, NC. Kevin shares his journey from teaching adapted PE in a public school setting to serving at a classical Christian school. Together, they discuss the importance of partnering with parents in education and how teaching through a biblical worldview helps shape students' sense of purpose and prepares them for life beyond the classroom.

https://carychristianschool.org/

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Lily Abadal, an applied ethicist and Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of South Florida. They discuss her unique journey as a first-generation college student and her passion for philosophy. They also explore the challenges and opportunities that AI presents to students and educators, and how the rise of AI could lead to a resurgence of classical educational traditions.

Follow Lily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-lily-abadal/

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Matt Mehan–Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Government for the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College’s Washington, D.C. campus–to explore the enduring power of fables, classical education, and the importance of shared stories in rebuilding American civic virtue.

Drawing from history, literature, and the American tradition, Dr. Mehan discusses how heroes, moral imagination, and cultural inheritance cultivate civic virtue, inspire hope, and strengthen love of country.

They also discuss his newly released book, The American Book of Fab...

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Jack McPherson, Director of Development for the Emerging Leaders Program at the Convention of States (COS) Foundation.

Jack shares his journey from Hillsdale College to serving as a founding member of the Emerging Leaders Program, a nine-month student formation fellowship that trains young men and women in the art of American Statesmanship.

Discover how classical education, statesmanship, and a commitment to the common good are shaping future public servants and restoring the true meaning of leadership.

Website: cosinternship.com

If...

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Noah Tyler, Chief Strategy Officer at CLT, is joined by Lawrence Reed, President Emeritus, Humphreys Family Senior Fellow, and Ron Manners Global Ambassador for Liberty at the Foundation for Economic Education (FEE).

They discuss the parental involvement as the strongest predictor of student success, the significance of civics education in understanding constitutional principles, and the current state of economics education in the United States. They also reflect on historical parallels that can inform our understanding of current political trends.

Dr. Reed's Forthcoming Book: Born of Ideas: How Principles...

What if we’ve been teaching Latin and Greek all wrong?

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren Schwab sits down with Guillermo Dillon, Senior Consultant in the U.S. for the Polis Institute, to discuss why the future of Latin and Ancient Greek depends on something bigger than textbooks, but on our understanding of why these languages must be kept alive.

Guillermo makes the case that Greek and Latin should not be treated as “dead languages” or mere tools for boosting test scores, but as living gateways into the intellectual tradition of the West—t...

Most people accept death as the ultimate loss—Ben Sasse embraces it with humor, hope, and a profound faith that changes how we see life, death, and education. In this deeply personal yet inspiring episode, one of America's most eloquent voices shares how a terminal diagnosis sharpened his moral clarity and deepened his understanding of what truly matters.

Ben Sasse, a former senator, university president, and thoughtful advocate for classical Christian education, opens up about confronting mortality with a rare combination of honesty, humor, and faith. He recounts the moments that have shaped his view on life’s pu...

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Gary Welton, a dedicated professor and administrator at Grove City College, about his personal journey, the unique environment at Grove City, and the role of standardized assessments like the CLT in higher education. Discover how faith influences academic pathways and the importance of preserving classical liberal arts traditions in today's educational landscape.

CLT Study: https://www.gcc.edu/Home/Staff-Directory/Staff-Detail/gcc-study-finds-predictive-value-in-classic-learning-test

Key topics include:

Dr. Welton’s upbringing in Grove City and his faith-based education journey
The advantages of...

Many believe that school growth requires sacrificing uniqueness, but Dr. Eric DeVries shows how Hill Country Christian School is expanding while maintaining its core identity. By fostering a vibrant, Christ-centered culture, the school thrives even as enrollment surpasses 700 students.

With over 17 years of experience in leading classical Christian schools, Dr. DeVries shares insights into how strategic clarity and a commitment to moral and spiritual formation drive growth in North Austin. He explores balancing rigorous academics like STEM with the timeless virtues of classical education, all while staying true to the school's faith-driven mission.

Discover:
...

Visit "The Canary Project" website: https://www.thecanaryproject.org/

Most of us are unknowingly living in an attention economy that’s shaping our minds, emotional health, and relationships — often without our consent. 

Terry Gromes, founder of the Canary Project, reveals how technology is rewiring childhood development and what parents and educators can do to regain control before it’s too late.

In this eye-opening conversation, Terry shares the surprising origins of the Canary Project and how it acts as a “canary in the coal mine,” warning us about the unseen dangers of digital addiction a...

Unlock the secret to transforming education by blending faith, leadership, and practical strategies—discover how a spirit-filled approach shapes tomorrow’s teachers.

Dr. Kim Boyd, Dean of the College of Education at Oral Roberts University, shares her remarkable journey from a public school student in Pennsylvania to a transformative leader who’s reimagining Christian education. She reveals how her own childhood struggles, including teachers’ harsh words that once held her back, fueled her lifelong passion for empowering teachers and students alike. Learn how her faith-infused philosophy integrates biblical principles into teaching, creating environments where healing and inspiration flourish...

Most students leave high school without ever experiencing the depth and joy of a truly classical Catholic education. But what if there’s a better way—one that transforms students into well-rounded leaders rooted in faith and virtue?

In this episode, Dr. Eric DeMeuse, headmaster of Chesterton Academy of Milwaukee, shares how a uniquely integrated, high-school-only model is redefining what education can be. He reveals how his own journey—from growing up in Wisconsin, discovering classical texts at Hillsdale, to shaping a school community based on relationship, beauty, and excellence—can inspire your approach to education and family l...

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate sits down with Stuart Williams to discuss the launch of the Classic Learning Foundation.

The Foundation is being established to come alongside students and assist with the funding of both secondary and collegiate education. With a focus on merit-based and need-based scholarships, the goal is to support students pursuing a classically based, liberal arts education.

Drawing a parallel to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, Stuart explains how the Classic Learning Foundation aims to create recognition and prestige around strong pre-college preparation—particularly for students in the 10th...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Anchored Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of an "enchanted intellect" with Andrew Morton, a senior fellow at Worldview Academy. Discover how reading full novels and engaging with classics like Narnia and Lord of the Rings can shape a vibrant, resilient faith in students.

Join us as Andrew shares how Worldview Academy’s summer camps forge hearts and minds through interactive experiences, igniting a love for truth, goodness, and beauty. Learn how this approach challenges the modern tendency to compartmentalize faith and reason, fostering a worldview ro...

Join Andrew Zwerneman, Head of Cana Academy, on the Anchored Podcast as he dives into the History250 Project, a groundbreaking initiative transforming the way American history is taught. Discover how this project brings history to life with 250 high-quality videos, classroom resources, and original documents—covering the story of America from its founding to the modern day.

Zwerneman discusses:

The importance of teaching American history warts-and-all, highlighting both challenges and triumphs.

How leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Harry Truman, and Cesar Chavez drew on history and moral principles to shape our na...

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Dr. P. Jesse Rine discusses his journey in Christian higher education, the evolution of Christian colleges, and the mission of the Center for Academic Faithfulness and Flourishing. He highlights the importance of maintaining distinct Christian identities in higher education, the positive trends in enrollment for faithful institutions, and the challenges posed by demographic shifts and technological advancements. Dr. Rine also introduces the CAFF College Guide, a resource aimed at helping students and parents navigate the landscape of Christian colleges.

In this episode, Alex Julian discusses his journey into classical education, his teaching philosophy, and the insights he gained from his time at Arcadia. The conversation delves into the Classical Baccalaureate program, its significance in addressing gaps in the current educational landscape, and the demand for such an initiative among educators and parents. Alex outlines the foundational principles of the program and shares the timeline for its implementation, emphasizing the importance of creating a high-quality educational offering that resonates with both students and colleges.

https://www.cltexam.com/classicalbaccalaureate/

Takeaways

Alex Julian's...

Are you seeking an education that goes beyond the "factory" model of modern schooling?

Join us for a deep dive into the transformative power of classical education with Jessica Lopez and Ali Cause-Nance from Classical Charter Schools of America. In an era where many feel students have become "commodities" of the test/college prep industry, this episode explores a proven alternative that integrates rigorous academics with the cultivation of timeless virtues.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Foundation of Latin: Why ancient languages are the key to mastering modern thought.

Character...

What kind of education is required to sustain a free society?

On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Wayne Tate, founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), sits down with Jeffrey S. Trimbath, President of the Maryland Family Institute, to examine the deep connection between classical education, family formation, and self-government.

Jeffrey draws on his experience in public policy, education, and family advocacy to argue that a democratic republic depends on citizens who can govern themselves—and that kind of formation does not happen by accident. From the decline of grammar schools to modern ed...

Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with Dr. Jordi Wiersma, founding president of the Pascal Institute in the Netherlands, to discuss the renewal of classical education in Europe and beyond. They explore how modern schooling shapes culture, why liberal arts and Great Books still matter, and how rigorous seminars in philosophy, literature, and the history of ideas can form students in wisdom and judgment.​

You’ll hear about the mission of the Pascal Institute, its seminars and symposia, and its place within the broader classical education movement that is reconnecting students with Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Shakespeare, Pascal, and more...

Join us on the Anchored Podcast as we explore the journey of Rockbridge Academy with its head, Roy Griffith. Discover how his background in architecture influenced his approach to education and learn about the unique values that define this flagship classical Christian school. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in modern education, including the integration of technology and the balance between academic rigor and spiritual growth. Tune in for insights on the future of classical Christian education and the role of community and mentorship in schools.

#AnchorPodcast #ClassicalEducation #RoyGriffith #RockbridgeAcademy #EducationInsights #ChristianEducation #ArchitectureInEducation #TechInEducation #AcademicRigor #spiritualgrowth

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate and guests Luke Heintschel and Genavive Edman discuss the mission and vision behind Coeur d'Eucharist Academy, a Catholic school in Northern Idaho. 

They explore the challenges and opportunities within the classical education movement, emphasizing the importance of returning to the roots of Catholic education, which prioritize virtue and excellence over mere academic achievement. 

Genavive shares her journey from a homeschool background to leading a school that aims to foster a strong community and a deep understanding of faith among students. Luke adds insights on the significance of...