THE EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL : A “LIT TLE IMAGE” OF THE CHURCH
purpose was to develop “discerning individuals with the intellectual and moral courage to lead principled lives of leadership and service to others.” Over the next hundred years and well into the 21st century, the Episcopal school movement had begun its expansion around the nation. The degree and nature of the schools’ Episcopal identity varied, ranging from independent schools that identify as Episcopalian in name and philosophy only to diocesan and parish day schools that are officially aligned with Episcopal dioceses or parish churches.
During the early 19th century, two of the greatest minds in the history of education—John Henry Newman and William Augustus Muhlenberg— began to shape the nature and influence of Christian schools. In a 2011 compendium of their philosophies, W. L. Prehn identified explicit components of their work that serve as guides to today’s Episcopal schools. With Dr. Prehn’s generous permission, major points gleaned from their respective works are incorporated into this essay.
Episcopal Schools Today The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), an independent organization formed in 1965 to “support, serve, and advocate for Episcopal
In 1839, Episcopal High School opened its 80acre campus just west of the colonial port of Alexandria, Virginia, to “35 eager young men.” Its 7
