Classical Learning
Our primary approach to education is rooted in classical education inside the framework of the University-Model®. Classical education is structured in the three stages of learning known as the Trivium: the Grammar stage, the Logic stage, and the Rhetoric stage, each of which builds upon the developmental skills of the child.
Grammar stage (PreK-5th Grade) - In Grammar School, students focus on acquiring foundational knowledge and developing strong language skills. This includes a mastery of factual information delivered through poetry, Biblical text, mathematics, vocabulary, geography, and historical narrative.
Logic stage (6th-8th Grade) - Students begin to apply the difficult “how” and “why” questions to all disciplines and subject areas. The focus on critical thinking, reasoning, and analytical skills leads to recognizing invalid conclusions and the construction of persuasive arguments.
Rhetoric stage (9th-12th Grade) - Students emphasize the integration of academic content by understanding the connections between bodies of knowledge and building the power of persuasion within the world of ideas. They develop communication skills to articulate their thoughts effectively through written and spoken presentation, and the Rhetoric stage culminates in the realization of wisdom.
The University-Model® School International (UMSI) education includes a rigorous academic program, student activities, and character development.
This academic program utilizes the best aspects of tradition, full-time public and private schools, as well as home schools, and molds them into one model. UMSI uses a university-style schedule adapted to the elementary, junior, and senior high levels. Professional teachers teaching in their areas of expertise conduct central classroom instruction. Students attend classes in their central classroom three days per week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Students then spend their alternative days at home in their satellite classroom, where their parents continue their instruction as provided by their professional teacher.
The key to success for a University-Model® School is the integration of a parentally guided, biblically grounded Christian faith and a sound, teacher-facilitated academic environment. The Bible gives parents the authority and responsibility for raising their children with the goal of becoming disciples of Jesus Christ. In UMSI education, that parental authority and responsibility, though not surrendered, is shared with a formal educational institution. Harvest Academy will assist, not supplant, parents in their work of training and educating their children.