FAQ: Schola

Is there an advantage for a student to take the complete Schola program?

Although Schola offers each class independently, a synergy develops when world view issues discussed in The Great Conversation become relevant in other classes, especially in Latin and science.

What academic preparation would be helpful for a student before entering the Schola program?

Students preparing to enter The Great Conversation would benefit from:
  • a thorough study of world and American history,
  • wide and varied reading of whole books rather than anthologies,
  • basic writing skills.
  • thorough understanding of English grammar.
  • good typing skills.

Tapestry of Grace and Sonlight Curriculum are two excellent programs for preparing students to participate in the Schola Program.

Students preparing to enter Physical Science would benefit from one or two years of general science studies. Some suggestions for preparatory study include BJU Press Life Science and Space and Earth Science texts or Apologia’s General Science and Physical Science texts.

Students preparing to enter Algebra 1 should have completed a pre-algebra program, such as Saxon Algebra 1/2, BJU Press or Abeka Pre-Algebra.

Students preparing to enter Latin I or Spanish I need no special preparation.

If my Junior High student takes TGC Primer and Latin, will he earn high school credit?

Yes, mature 7th grade students who are capable of keeping up with the demands of high school classes can earn high school credit.

If a student enters the entire program, how much time will be left for extra-curricular activities?

Including class time, a student enrolled in The Great Conversation should expect to spend 3 hours per day during the week. The addition of math, science, language, and one or two outside activities is a full schedule for most students.

What should the parents’ role be for students enrolled in Schola?

Parents are ultimately responsible for the education of their children. Parents are encouraged to choose classes carefully, support their students in the amount and quality of study time, and to continue in their role as mentor.

One of the most important ingredients in the success of homeschool classes is an available parent who can assist and properly work with the student. For a family in which both parents work outside the home on a full-time, or almost full-time, basis, a more traditional school is probably a better choice.

Are there grades or evaluations given to Schola students and parents?

Yes. At a minimum, each Schola instructor will issue grades/evaluations quarterly.

Does Schola issue transcripts?

Schola is a "meeting place for teachers and pupils," not a school. Schola does not archive any class records or transcripts. It is important that parents save grade reports for their student's school record and transcript.

May I substitute alternative editions or translations for required books?

For Latin, science, and math, all textbooks should be the requested editions of the specific texts.

For the Great Conversation, particular editions or translations are chosen for the benefit of the students. A particular book may offer ease of understanding, a more accurate translation, or helpful editor’s notes. Alternate editions or translations also create problems in class because of differing page or line numbers.

What should I do if my child cannot attend class?

When unavoidable events such as illness prevent a student from attending class, please notify your child’s teacher by email as soon as possible. The student must make arrangements to complete missed work.

Is there a study hall available if my student is waiting between classes?

Study Hall Guidlines

Is there a dress code at Schola?

Students and teachers are engaged in serious endeavors at Schola and should dress accordingly. The following guidelines apply to all Schola classes and field trips.

General Guidelines:

  • Students should dress in a manner that is modest and shows respect for their teachers and fellow students.
  • Students should dress in a manner that is not distracting in a classroom educational environment.

Specific Examples:

  • No short skirts or short shorts.
  • No exposed tank tops, spaghetti straps, halter-tops, off-the-shoulder-tops, or tops with inappropriate or offensive decorations.
  • No ripped garments, visible undergarments, hats, sun glasses, or other distracting accessories.