Frequently Asked Questions

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Classical education is another term for Liberal Arts, which comes from a 2,400 year tradition of teaching students how to think, and not just what to think, with an emphasis on virtue and wisdom. It is precisely this kind of education that has produced countless leaders, inventors, artists, and theologians throughout history.

Classical education through the Liberal Arts goes well beyond our commonplace understanding of a basic college degree. It is foundational to the way God designed us to learn. The Trivium (three paths) and the Quadrivium (four paths) comprise the foundation of all learning, with the Trivium focusing on the art (skill) of words and the Quadrivium the art (skill) of numbers. An individual who has mastery of words and mastery of numbers truly lays a foundation for lifelong learning. This became increasingly valuable to early Christians who found in Jesus the ultimate expression of truth, goodness, and beauty. 

Further reading on the Liberal Arts 

https://classicalacademicpress.com/products/the-liberal-arts-tradition-a-philosophy-of-classical-christian-education

Many of our students do not have a background in classical education before enrolling. We use academic testing and family interviews to assess a student’s learning level and ensure they are placed in the most fitting classes. Furthermore, students are supported with training and instruction in foundational skills and knowledge. Those students who enthusiastically desire to learn and grow and have supportive family settings to help them navigate this new experience are those who find the most success. 

We recognize that education is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Rather than following a  traditional age-grade model, our students are part of learning cohorts—small, multi-age groups of students who progress together based on skill, mastery, and developmental readiness. This model allows us to cultivate a rich learning environment where each child is seen, known, and encouraged to flourish at their own pace. 

We are located at 2324 Valleydale Road, Birmingham, AL 35244.

We will begin enrolling K-1 this fall, and will offer K-5 in the future.

We will meet 5 days a week, from ______ to _______.

Yes. Valleydale Classical Academy partners with BeneFAQ to help families access financial aid, including funds available through Alabama's CHOOSE Act. To apply or learn more, visit BeneFAQ and use School ID _______.

There are many benefits. Like any uniform, school uniforms are a visual reminder of a common purpose (in this case, to learn). Uniforms remove unnecessary distractions that typically divide students (e.g., socio-economic status, name brands, preferences) and promote a common identity. While clothing is often associated as a means of self-expression, uniforms remind students that their primary expression comes from their character and choices as image-bearers of God.

Accreditation takes time for new schools to achieve. We do however provide transcripts which meet all the criteria for college entrance. We are currently working with Concordis Education Partners and the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) to meet all standards and best practices.

Latin is one of the most structured and ordered languages, making it an excellent tool for mastering grammar while fostering a deeper appreciation for language. As the root of the Romance languages (French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Romanian), it provides a strong foundation for learning other languages. Latin was also the language of Rome during the time of Jesus, offering a unique window into the historical and cultural context of that era. Moreover, a wealth of Christian texts were originally written in Latin, granting access to a rich legacy of theological and historical works.

Practically speaking, studying Latin provides a better grasp of English (e.g., about 80% of English vocabulary is borrowed, mainly from Latin), and is also the basis for much of the vocabulary in professional careers like law and medicine.