The Mission
Our mission is to actively partner with families in the joyful discipleship of students. Through a rigorous, Christ-centered classical education we shape the intellect, train affections, and cultivate virtue–thereby sculpting worshipful lives.
Our Deep Hope
Our deep hope is that each student would grow in wonder and worship recognizing all truth as God’s truth and delighting in His beauty, order, and goodness revealed throughout creation We pray that our education cultivates wisdom, humility, and courage; so that our graduates love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength; and that they become producers, not merely consumers discerning truth, taking godly dominion, and offering their gifts in faithful service to Christ and His kingdom. We seek to extend the work of the covenant household by raising successive generations of men and women who gratefully receive their Christian inheritance, joyfully embrace their distinct callings, and wisely steward God’s gifts in the power and unity of the Holy Spirit.
Classical Christian Education
The medieval church clearly understood the formative power of education. As a result, it reshaped the ancient concept of the liberal arts which had traditionally been viewed as a system for cultivating human virtue through reason and rhetoric into a distinctively Christian paideia, or vision of formation. Rather than promoting virtue merely for civic or personal excellence (as in classical humanism), the church redirected education toward the goal of “all of Christ for all of life”
The liberal arts originally consisting of the trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric) and the quadrivium (arithmetic, geometry, music, astronomy) were seen by the ancients as the path to becoming a wise, virtuous citizen But in the hands of the church, these disciplines were no longer just tools for mastering words and numbers; they became instruments for shaping the whole person according to the truth of God’s Word, ordered toward knowing, loving, and serving Christ in every sphere of life
The medieval church redeemed the liberal arts, transforming them from a secular pursuit of excellence into a Christ-centered formation of the soul, rooted in eternal truth and directed toward godly living in every vocation
Classical Christian Education redeems the liberal arts as a Christ-centered paideia forming the soul through the disciplines of word (trivium) and number (quadrivium), not for civic virtue alone, but for the rightly ordered love of God and the pursuit of wisdom in every sphere of life
PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION
We believe that all education begins with the truth of the Triune God as revealed in the inerrant and sufficient Scriptures. Grounded in the biblical narrative of Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration, our educational vision is unapologetically Christian and wholly transformative We train students to see all truth as God’s truth, to bring every thought captive to Christ, and to boldly proclaim His grace for the glory of His name and the advance of His kingdom
As a Classical school, we use the *Trivium: grammar, logic, and rhetoric as well as the Quadrivium: arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy Rejecting the myth of educational neutrality, we approach every subject as part of an integrated whole with Christ as the foundation We aim to form students who love what is true, good, and beautiful; who think precisely, speak clearly, and live wisely; and whose rightly ordered minds, hearts, and lives reflect the love of God to the world
PHILOSOPHY OF HUMANITIES
Humanities is the study of people individuals and groups and their collective thoughts, actions, and intentions across time We study humanities to discern what is noble and true, to understand the story of humanity as part of God’s redemptive plan, and to cultivate wisdom and virtue We seek to shape the hearts and minds of our students toward Christ, so that students may love what is lovely, reject what is false, and contribute meaningfully to culture with humility, courage, and faithfulness
Philosophy of Bible
The Bible is the unchanging and final authority for all of life and learning at Trinity Classical Academy Every subject, every classroom, every lesson, and every relationship must align with the Word of God Scripture is the God-breathed, inerrant revelation of God's character, His will for our lives, and His great story of redemption All of God's Word points to and culminates in Christ, the incarnate Logos who orders all reality
Students are trained to be Biblically fluent able to rightly divide the Word of truth, to test every idea by the standard of Scripture, and to take every thought captive in obedience to Christ. They must see their lives within God’s story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.
Our Doctrinal standards are based on the Westminster Confession of Faith (see Trinity Presbyterian Church Constitution for more information). At Trinity Classical Academy, worship through the Word is central: students gather daily in chapel for prayer, Scripture, and song, embodying a
community grounded in truth. In addition, we hold a longer weekly chapel for preaching and teaching, equipping students to live faithfully and boldly under the authority of Christ and His Word.
Philosophy of History
History reveals the pattern of human behavior and bears witness to God’s sovereignty in creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. In keeping with the classical tradition, we look to the past through the eyes of primary sources. Like the Greeks, we study aretē excellence or virtue but we go further, recognizing that true virtue can only be found in Christ. Students are challenged to discern what cultures valued, how those values shaped institutions, and how God’s providence guided history toward His purposes In doing so, they see mankind’s desperate need for a Savior and how the Gospel has the power to transform kingdoms and cultures for the blessing and prosperity of their people
Philosophy of Literature
Literature provides the opportunity to recognize the human condition through the power of story and to see clearly our brokenness and need for redemption in Christ Good stories confront students with sin, suffering, hope, and grace, and call them to evaluate all things in light of God’s Word
At Trinity Classical Academy, literature is not studied for entertainment or sentimentality, but as a training ground for discernment Students are positioned in innocence as readers while being called to weigh truth against falsehood, good against evil, beauty against distortion. They learn to recognize the consequences of disordered loves and the fruit of righteousness, preparing them to navigate the complexities of the world with wisdom. All chosen literature serves the intentional purpose of shaping a God-centered imagination and training students to see every story in light of the greater story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration.
Philosophy of Music
At Trinity Classical Academy, music is not merely a cultural artifact or artistic expression–it is central to worship, formation, and spiritual warfare. Scripture commands God’s people to sing (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16), for singing shapes our loves and strengthens our faith The Psalms teach us that worship is warfare: through song, God’s people proclaim His victory, resist the lies of the enemy, and lift their voices as a weapon of truth and praise
Scripture declares that God exalts over His people with singing (Zephaniah 3:17), and we believe that we are called to be a singing people, reflecting the harmony of creation and anticipating the eternal song of
heaven. Music trains the heart to rejoice in the Lord, to lament with hope, and to delight in the beauty of holiness. Students are immersed in hymns, psalms, and sacred music, learning to sing not only with their voices but with their lives. In this way, music at Trinity Classical Academy forms students as worshipers and warriors, equipped to glorify God with strength, courage, and joy.
Philosophy of Art
Through art we acknowledge God as the Creator of all beauty, truth, and goodness, and we honor man's calling to imitate his creativity. Art is a revealing outworking of the creative heart of the Imago Dei, and studying existing artwork can give us a window into the cultures and souls of other times and peoples Students are called to imitate the Creator in artistic expression, not only as a skill, but as an act of worship and cultural formation
When we study the art of the past, our goal is not to provoke or sensationalize, but to tell the truth about how people saw the world, what they valued, and how their loves were expressed This study equips students to discern the difference between beauty rightly ordered to God and distortion that reflects disordered desires
In a culture that often prizes utility over beauty, Trinity Classical Academy affirms that beauty is formative, cultivating reverence and wonder In practicing beholding, and creating art, students bring glory to the ultimate Artist, the Lord Himself.
Trinity Classical Academy is committed to providing a rigorous and faithful Christian education that cultivates a love for what is true, beautiful, and good. As part of this mission, our classical curriculum engages the literature, music, and art of cultures that have significantly shaped Western civilization, including ancient Greece and Rome In the course of such study, students may encounter artistic works that include depictions of nudity or sensuality. These works are presented with careful attention to biblical wisdom, affirming the dignity of the human body as God’s creation, while also ensuring that instruction remains age-appropriate and portrays good as good, and evil as evil We remain committed to approaching these materials with theological integrity and discernment, and to maintaining clear lines of communication with parents regarding such content
PHILOSOPHY OF MATH
Mathematics is the language of order and eternal truth, revealing the harmonious structure of creation and reflecting the mind of God who designed it In the classical
Christian tradition, math is not merely utilitarian but a liberal art that trains the intellect and shapes the soul. Like grammar forms language, math forms reason teaching students to think clearly, solve problems logically, and discern truth. Because truth is consistent and discoverable, students pursue mastery over memorization, moving from concrete arithmetic to abstract reasoning with confidence and clarity. Patterns and precision become opportunities to see God’s faithfulness and character Through guided practice, real-world application, and cumulative review, students develop deep understanding, not just procedural skill In this way, math becomes both an intellectual discipline and a form of worship cultivating habits of accuracy, perseverance, and joyful inquiry as students learn to love what is true and participate in God’s orderly world Through mathematics, students learn to pursue truth diligently and participate in God’s cosmos with wisdom and joy
PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE
Science is the disciplined study of the created world, a reverent pursuit that reveals the intricacy of creation and the fingerprints of its Maker In the classical Christian tradition, science is integrated with theology, history, mathematics, and philosophy, inviting students to ask not only how things work, but what they are for and what they reveal about God Because all truth is God’s truth, we teach students to approach scientific discovery with confidence and discernment, knowing that rightly interpreted, it will never contradict Scripture Through hands-on investigation, careful observation, and logical analysis, students engage biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences as paths to wisdom, not merely content mastery. Science rightly taught cultivates humility, curiosity, and awe training students to distinguish between empirical knowledge and revealed truth, and to study, steward, and celebrate creation in light of God's glory
PHILOSOPHY OF LANGUAGE
We teach Latin to train students to think clearly, reason logically, and recognize the ordered nature of God’s world Its structure strengthens English grammar and vocabulary, connects students to the roots of Western civilization, and opens access to the writings of the Church Fathers and other primary texts of the Christian tradition As the Lord provides, students may also study biblical languages such as Greek or Hebrew, deepening both their understanding of Scripture and their grasp of language itself how words shape thought and reveal meaning In all language study, our goal is not fluency but formation cultivating minds that love truth, delight in words rightly ordered, and express wisdom, clarity, and grace.
STATEMENT OF FAITH
Trinity Classical Academy is a ministry of Trinity Presbyterian Church We share the church’s Reformed Christian beliefs and commitment to the historic Christian faith. In particular, we uphold the Westminster Confession of Faith (with its Larger and Shorter Catechisms) as an accurate and faithful summary of what Scripture teaches. Below is a thematic summary of our core doctrinal commitments, presented in an accessible way for our school community:
Holy Scripture
God’s Word: We believe the Bible is the written Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit and without error in all that it affirms The Scriptures are the final authority for what we believe and how we live, providing the infallible foundation for our faith and practice
The Triune God
One God in Three Persons: We believe in one true and living God who eternally exists in three Persons – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are the same in substance, equal in power and glory We worship God as the almighty Creator and loving Lord, who is holy, just, and merciful.
Human Nature and Sin
Made in God’s Image, Fallen in Sin: We believe that human beings were created in the image of God to know and glorify Him However, since the fall of Adam, all people are sinners by nature and, left to their own devices, continually choose to rebel against God and His law We are unable to save ourselves or to earn God’s favor by our own efforts. Every one of us stands in need of God’s mercy and grace because our sin separates us from a holy God
Salvation by Grace through Christ
God’s Sovereign Grace: We believe that salvation is entirely the work of God’s grace From beginning to end, our rescue from sin is God’s initiative. In His great love, God the Father chose to save a people for Himself – not because of any merit, goodness, or foreseen faith in us, but solely out of His own mercy and grace. We contribute nothing to our salvation; it is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone
The Person and Work of Christ: We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God
who became truly human while remaining truly God. He was born of a virgin, lived a perfect and sinless life, and died on the cross as a sacrificial substitute for sinners Through His perfect life and atoning death, Jesus fully paid the penalty for the sins of all who trust in Him He rose bodily from the grave, conquering sin and death, and ascended into heaven. Jesus Christ is the only Savior and mediator between God and humanity – our hope is in Him alone for forgiveness and eternal life
God’s Covenant and Our Families
Grace for Believers and Their Children: We believe that God’s redemptive plan unfolds through His gracious covenant promises. God is gracious and faithful to His people not only as isolated individuals but also as families across the generations He promises in Scripture to be a God to believers and to their children, and we trust Him to work through family relationships for His glory In baptism, which is the sign of God’s covenant, God marks His people (including our children) as belonging to Him. We rejoice that God’s covenant love and promises extend to our households, and we seek to raise our children as Christians in the nurture and instruction of the Lord.
The Holy Spirit
The Spirit’s Indwelling and Work: We believe the Holy Spirit is fully God, the third Person of the Trinity The Holy Spirit dwells in every believer, uniting us to Christ and giving us new life. He equips us with faith to trust in Jesus and empowers us to grow in holiness The Spirit comforts us, guides us in understanding God’s truth, and enables us to live out our faith. Through the Holy Spirit’s work, we are being transformed to become more like Christ, bearing the fruit of righteousness in our lives.
The Church – Body and Bride of Christ
One Church, Many Members: We believe that all who are united to Jesus Christ by true faith are members of His one Church, which the Bible describes as the Body and Bride of Christ on earth, whom He loves and redeems. This one, holy, catholic (universal), and apostolic church is manifested in local congregations where God’s people gather for worship, teaching, fellowship, and prayer.
Mission and Perseverance: We believe Jesus established His Church to glorify God and to carry out the Great Commission – to make disciples of all nations. The Church is called to proclaim the gospel, administer the sacraments (Baptism and the Lord’s Supper), and to shine as a light in the world. We are confident in Jesus’ promise that the powers of hell will not prevail against His Church By God’s grace, the gospel of the kingdom will spread throughout the whole earth. We trust that the knowledge
of God will one day cover the earth as the waters cover the sea, and that Christ will subdue all His enemies, with even death itself being the last enemy destroyed
The Unity of Believers
Unity in Truth and Love: We believe that all who belong to Jesus Christ are spiritually united in Him, members of one family of God. We therefore strive to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace While we hold firmly to the essential truths of the faith, we also recognize that true Christians may differ on secondary matters. In essentials we strive for unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things, charity (Christian love). We seek to cultivate love, respect, and cooperation with all our brothers and sisters in Christ, rejoicing that we share one Lord, one faith, and one baptism.
The Return of Christ and Final Judgment
Christ’s Glorious Return: We believe that Jesus Christ will come again to earth, visibly and in glory, at the end of the age He will return as King of kings to judge the living and the dead. Christ will put all His enemies under His feet – with death being the last enemy to be destroyed – and will consummate His kingdom of righteousness and peace. Those who have trusted in Christ will rejoice in His presence forever, while those who persist in unbelief will face just and eternal judgment We live in the joyful hope of His coming, knowing that ultimate victory and justice belong to the Lord.
The Christian Life – All to the Glory of God
Life Under Christ’s Lordship: We believe that every aspect of our lives is to be lived for the glory of God under the lordship of Jesus Christ God is sovereign over all of life, and there is no part of our education, work, family, or personal life that falls outside His authority Therefore, we seek to honor God in all that we do – cultivating wisdom, virtue, and compassion in our students and community. By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, we strive to obey God’s Word, love our neighbors, and exercise our callings in the world as faithful followers of Christ. In all things, our chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever
Cultural Issues
Marriage: As a mission of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Trinity Classical Academy upholds biblical marriage as a sacred covenant between one man and one woman, ordained by God for companionship, sanctification, procreation, and moral purity--reflecting Christ's union with the Church. We oppose redefinitions such as same-sex marriage or extramarital sexual activity, while extending grace and calls to
repentance. We believe there are two distinct genders, male and female, and together they reflect the image and nature of God.
Sanctity of Life: Trinity Classical Academy holds the unwavering belief that all human life is sacred and worthy of protection from the moment of conception to natural death. This conviction is rooted in the Biblical truth that every person is created in the image of God (Imago Dei), and therefore possesses inherent dignity and purpose. As a school committed to shaping hearts and minds in accordance with God’s Word, we seek to instill in our students a deep reverence for human life and a courageous willingness to defend it with compassion, wisdom, and conviction. On the sanctity of life, human dignity stems from being made in God's image from conception to death, leading to strong opposition to abortion, euthanasia, and any devaluation of life
Racism: We condemn racism as a sin of partiality and hatred, contradicting the equality of all image-bearers of God and the gospel's unifying power across ethnicities We call for both repentance from racism and the pursuit of biblical justice and reconciliation, while critically evaluating secular definitions of those activities. We call for repentance from racism, pursuing justice, and reconciliation, while critically evaluating secular ideologies.
Overarchingly, these stances derive from Scripture's authority, balancing truth with grace, and engaging culture as salt and light without withdrawal or compromise, emphasizing the gospel's transformative role in addressing societal issues
Secondary Doctrine
In matters of secondary doctrine, Trinity Classical Academy administrators and teachers will:
1 Encourage and challenge students to think and be discerning on all matters according to the truth of God’s Word
2 Foster a classroom environment, especially at the secondary level, of love, respect and charity among students
3 Be encouraged to charitably present the various sides of a secondary issue
4. Seek to maintain unity among our students and families according to our Statement of Faith and the Westminster Standards (consisting of the Confession of Faith and the Larger and Shorter Catechisms) and by not teaching secondary doctrines as primary and not disparaging secondary doctrinal beliefs that are contrary to their personal convictions
5 Encourage students to seek the support and instruction of their parents and their local church
The following list is not exhaustive but represents some of the secondary doctrine discussions that may occur (mainly) at the secondary level:
Age of the Earth
We read passages like Genesis 1-3, 5, and 11 from the framework of an orthodox Christian perspective. These historical and chronological accounts in Genesis serve as the backbone of all of history. Therefore, we will teach from the perspective both of a literal 24-hour day and of a young earth. We will open the discussion up in secondary years, where we will discuss other views.
Eschatology
We will teach about the final return of Jesus to inherit the earth when the dead will be raised to eternal life or eternal judgment. We hold to a *postmillennial position, but our discussion in the secondary years will expand to interact with the *historical premillennialism and *amillennialism perspectives.
*Postmillennialism: Satan was bound at the cross, the millennial period is a period of time rather than a literal thousand years During this millennium the gospel will spread “to the ends of the earth” until death is the last to be conquered and put under Jesus’ feet, when the earth will be transformed in the “blink of an eye” with Jesus’ imminent return. This view holds that many of the New Testament prophetic passages were fulfilled by the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD.
*Historic Premillennialism: a non-literal interpretation of the trials described in Revelation, this view holds to the imminent return of Christ after a period of tribulation with a following age of peace where Satan is bound until right before the final judgment
*Amillennialism: the millennium is symbolic and represents the time of Church growth that is spiritual rather than physical. Jesus' imminent return will occur after a “millennium” of people coming to Christ There are various aspects to timing held within this view.
The Sacraments
Baptism: Baptism, as defined by the Westminster Shorter Catechism (WSC, Q44), is a sacrament where washing with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit signifies and seals a believer’s union with Christ, participation in the covenant of grace, and commitment to God It is an act of God’s grace through the church, marking the start of a believer’s new life in Christ and the covenant community.
Baptism represents and applies Christ’s benefits but requires living faith, a gift from God, to be effective (Rom 6:1-14)
God’s covenant includes believers’ children, granting them the right to baptism as part of His covenant family (Gen 17:7; Acts 2:39) Baptism does not ensure salvation but assures God’s promises, which must be embraced through personal faith. Parents are responsible for nurturing their children’s faith, building on baptism to guide them toward continued, faithful membership in God’s kingdom.
In secondary years, we will explore credobaptism and paedobaptism as orthodox beliefs, with Trinity Presbyterian Church and Trinity Classical Academy affirming paedobaptism
*Credobaptism: This position teaches that baptism is a sign of a believer’s fellowship with Christ in his death and resurrection and should be administered to those who profess repentance toward God and faith in and obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ. Believers are to be baptized in the name of the Triune God by immersion in water
*Paedobaptism: This position teaches that baptism is a sign and seal of the covenant of grace. Immersion into water is not necessary, but is rightly administered by pouring or sprinkling water upon the person in the name of the Triune God. Infants of one or both believing parents are to be baptized, not for salvation, but so that the promised grace of God is exhibited and conferred by the Holy Spirit to such as that grace belongs to, according to God’s own will and in His appointed time
The Lord’s Supper (Communion): The Lord’s Supper, as per the Westminster Shorter Catechism (WSC, Q96), is a sacrament in which worthy recipients, through faith, partake in Christ’s body and blood in the eating of bread and wine, receiving spiritual nourishment and growth in grace. Administered by the church, it signifies and seals believers’ union with Christ and the new covenant’s benefits, strengthening their bond with Him and the community (1 Cor. 10:16-17). Its efficacy depends on faith to avoid partaking unworthily (1 Cor 11:27-29)
God’s covenant includes believers’ children (Acts 2:39) We hold that baptized children, as members of the covenant community, should be admitted to the Lord’s Supper a practice known as paedocommunion. While we acknowledge that this position is an exception to the Westminster Standards, we believe that this position
reflects that of Scripture’s. This nurtures their spiritual growth, reflecting God’s grace to all ages Parents and the church must disciple children to understand and approach communion with faith, ensuring it strengthens their commitment to God.
Cessationism & Continuationism
We will teach that the Holy Spirit is God, coeternal with the Father and the Son, and that God grants him irrevocably to all who believe and that He is the believer’s Helper who convicts us of our sin, comforts us, guides us, gives us spiritual gifts and the desire to obey God; and he enables us to pray and to understand God’s Word. (Acts 1 and 2, Romans 8 and 15, I John 4) In the secondary years we will discuss the two main positions concerning the gifts of the Spirit, cessationism* and non-cessationism*, as a viable, orthodox belief. That said, TCA’s position is that of cessationism
*Cessationism: Cessationism is the view that the “miracle gifts” of tongues and healing have ceased that the end of the apostolic age brought about a cessation of the miracles associated with that age. Most cessationists believe that, while God can and still does perform miracles today, the Holy Spirit no longer uses individuals to perform miraculous signs.
*Continuationism: Continuationism is the belief that all the spiritual gifts, including healings, tongues, and miracles, are still in operation today, just as they were in the days of the early church. A continuationist believes that the spiritual gifts have “continued” unabated since the Day of Pentecost and that today’s church has access to all the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible.
Link to explanations: Theological Positions
Uniform Policy
Please review the uniform policy HERE.
DISCIPLIESHIP AT TRINITY CLASSICAL
At Trinity Classical Academy, our mission is to actively partner with families in the joyful discipleship of students. Through a rigorous, Christ-centered classical education we shape the intellect, train affections, and cultivate virtue thereby sculpting worshipful lives.
Discipline is an essential part of this mission. Parents and teachers are fellow laborers in Christ, entrusted with the joyful yet serious work of forming young souls. We recognize that all discipline flows from love: love for God, love for the student, and love for the community. Discipline is not punitive in nature but restorative, pointing each student to repentance, reconciliation, and the peace of Christ
We therefore commit to exercising discipline in ways that:
● Partner with parents as the primary disciplers of their children.
● Reflect the character of God, who disciplines those He loves (Heb. 12:6).
● Cultivate an environment where respect, repentance, and joy abound
● Train students to live honorably in community, learning to bear one another’s burdens
Biblical Foundation
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” –Hebrews 12:11
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ There is no commandment greater than these” – Mark 12:30–31
Core Commitments
We commit to the following in exercising discipline:
● Partner with parents as the primary disciplers of their children
● Reflect the character of God, who disciplines those He loves (Heb. 12:6).
● Cultivate an environment where respect, repentance, and joy abound.[-combine with:] Our Culture: We aim for a culture that is restorative marked by repentance, reconciliation, and joy
● Train students to live honorably in community, learning to bear one another’s burdens
● Encourage students to reject sin, embrace obedience, and honor those in authority
Sin is any thought, word, or deed contrary to God’s Word and His law of love.
Obedience is the act of submitting to God-given authority by doing what is commanded, so long as it does not contradict God’s Word. It is an outward expression of trust and respect
Honor is an outflowing of a heart that esteems, reveres, and willingly shows respect to those in authority, as well as fellow students.
Romans 12:10 – “Love one another with brotherly affection Outdo one another in showing honor.”
1 Peter 2:17 – “Honor everyone Love the brotherhood Fear God Honor the emperor”
Partnership
Parents and teachers are fellow laborers in Christ, entrusted with the joyful yet serious work of forming young souls Because parents bear the primary responsibility for raising their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). TCA seeks to strengthen not replace the authority of the home To that end, we are committed to the following principles:
● Communication with Head of Household: In all office visits and major discipline cases, the head of household (father, or designated guardian) will be notified This underscores the shared responsibility between school and home
● Cooperation: Teachers, administrators, and parents work together to shepherd students toward repentance and growth
● Consistency: Families and school staff agree to uphold the same biblical standards so that children receive unified guidance in both home and classroom.
General Guidelines
● Discipline will be administered with consideration of severity, situation, and the student’s attitude
● Minor corrections remain within the classroom; repeated or severe offenses require administrative involvement
● All discipline will be given in love, with the final aim of restoring fellowship.
Classroom Discipline
Minor classroom infractions (eg, disruption, nuisance behavior, misuse of materials)
are typically corrected by the teacher. Teachers may use redirection, warnings, or simple corrective measures. If problems persist, a student will be referred to the administrative office.
Primary Student Discipline Plan
The rule is love God and love your neighbor
1 If a student is overtly disrespectful to authority an immediate office visit will follow
2. If there is unloving behavior in the classroom, during breaks or lunchtime the teacher who observed the situation will give a warning and correct the behavior.
3 If a second infraction occurs the infraction will be documented
4. If an infraction occurs during a break the student’s lead teacher will be notified and documented accordingly
5. If a third infraction occurs the teacher will send the child to the Dean of Students for an office visit with information specifying the issue a. The Dean of Students will notify the parents through email of what occurred and the discipline given
6. Homework
a Any missing homework will be entered as a “0” in ClassReach After the third “0” or third poor grade, the parents will be notified. The late assignment policy is 10% grade reduction the first day, 20% reduction the second day, and 1 percentage point for any day thereafter. A standing “0” will mean the assignment was never submitted
Secondary Student Discipline Plan
The rule is love God and love your neighbor.
1. If a student is overtly disrespectful there will be an immediate office visit.
2 If a student is speaking inappropriately there will be an immediate office visit
3. If a student has not completed homework the teacher will notify the parents and the Dean of Students
Office Visits & Overt Behaviors
Overt or repeated disobedience requires administrative intervention Behaviors that prompt immediate office visits include (but are not limited to):
● Flagrant disrespect for staff
● Dishonesty (lying, cheating, stealing)
● Defiance or rebellion against authority
● Fighting or bullying (including cyber-bullying)
● Endangering another’s safety
● Vandalism or theft
● Inappropriate language (obscene, vulgar, profane)
● Romantic displays of affection
● Sexual misconduct or pornography use
● Substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, vaping)
● Weapons on campus
Depending on severity, consequences may include suspension or expulsion
Office Visit Protocol
When a student is referred to the office, the Administration will determine the consequence in light of the situation. Possible consequences include:
Cleaning & Stewardship
● Picking up trash
● Cleaning bathrooms
● Sweeping or vacuuming
● Wiping desks, walls, or whiteboards
● Outdoor clean-up
Physical Endurance & Discipline
● Wall sits
● Running laps
● Push-ups
Reflective & Restorative Actions
● Writing a reflection on the offense
● Writing an apology and asking forgiveness
● Repetition and practice of expected behaviors
Other Consequences
● Loss of privileges (field trips, recess, extracurriculars)
● Sent home for the remainder of the day
● Parent required to sit in class with student
● Tailored discipline plan designed in partnership with parents
Documentation: Every office visit results in a written discipline note to parents.
Excessive or Serious Discipline Cases
If a student shows repeated patterns of disobedience or unrepentant behavior, this becomes a Serious Discipline Case. Examples include (but are not limited to):
● Excessive office visits without repentance
● Chronic or extreme disrespect for authority
● Unsafe or violent behavior
● Overt moral failures (sexual misconduct, substance abuse, illegal activity)
In such cases, the administration will convene a discipline hearing with the student, parents, relevant teachers, and board representatives. The outcome may include suspension or expulsion Tuition is not reimbursed in these cases
Homework Submission
Primary Students (Grades K–6)
● Homework missed = “0” entered in ClassReach.
● After three zeroes or three poor grades, parents are notified. Late work policy:
○ 1 day late = 10% reduction
○ 2 days late = 20% reduction
○ 3+ days late = 1 pt for effort of submission
○ A standing “0” = never submitted
Secondary Students (Grades 7–12)
● Missed work is recorded as a “0” until turned in
● Same late work reductions apply Teachers notify parents and Dean of Students for repeated neglect
● Major project assignments submitted late will be a 20% reduction and then 10% per day thereafter
A pattern of late work will result in a Discipline Hearing
Electronic Devices
At Trinity Classical Academy, we recognize that personal electronic devices (phones, smartwatches, tablets, gaming devices, etc ) are often sources of distraction, temptation, and disconnection from the real, embodied community of the classroom. Our mission calls us to partner with families in shaping students’ intellect, training their affections, and cultivating virtue. Constant access to devices works against this mission by fostering distraction, dependency, and even exposure to harmful content.
For this reason, all devices must be checked into the phone locker upon arrival and will be retrieved at dismissal. This practice safeguards attentiveness, encourages face-to-face fellowship, and protects the culture of learning.
Violations:
● 1st offense: Confiscation until end of day; device returned only to a parent.
● 2nd offense: Parent conference to address the concern and reinforce partnership.
● 3rd offense: Disciplinary hearing to determine if continued misuse undermines the school’s culture and mission.
Cheating, Plagiarism, & AI
● Cheating: Looking at another’s work without permission. Plagiarism: Using another’s work without acknowledgment
● AI Misuse: Using artificial intelligence to generate work without explicit teacher permission
● Consequences:
○ 1st offense: Automatic zero; parents notified
○ 2nd offense: Discipline review; potential suspension
Internet Use and Social Media
Students are held to the same standard of behavior whether they are on campus or online at home Individuals agree to use these technological tools honorably and responsibly. Please review the overt discipline policy information for potential consequences.
The following is not permitted:
● Sending or displaying offensive messages or intimate pictures
● Using obscene, vulgar, or profane language
● Harassing, tormenting, threatening, embarrassing, humiliating, insulting, or attacking others
● Texting or social media interaction with teachers
ClassReach communication is permitted for students, parents, and teachers
Dress Code Violations
● Correctable issues handled in class.
● Uncorrectable issues documented and parents notified.
● 4 violations in one semester = Office visit.
● 5 violations = Student sent home
● Additional violations treated as overt discipline issues.
Summary: Discipline as Partnership in Mission
Trinity Classical Academy believes discipline is discipleship It is the school’s way of partnering with families to nurture students toward maturity in Christ Discipline at Trinity is not arbitrary, nor is it intended to punish for punishment’s sake Instead, it restores broken fellowship, cultivates respect for authority, trains the heart in virtue, and strengthens the bonds between school and home.
In this, discipline becomes an extension of our mission: partnering with families in joyful discipleship, shaping the intellect, training the affections, and cultivating virtue. By working together in this calling, we trust that God will raise up students whose lives are marked by wisdom, self-control, and worship of Christ.
PHILOSOPHY OF GRADING
PRIMARY & SECONDARY WEIGHTED CATEGORIES
● 30% Practice Work
● 70% Magnum Opus
Assessment & Grading Protocol
Humanities
Soft grading throughout the week on various writing and speaking assignments
Magnum Opus for each week that is graded in the gradebook (may be written or oral)
Assessment at the end of each book that includes: Grammar section
Logic section
Rhetoric Section
Mathematics
1 *Hard grade per week of homework/practice work
1 Assessment every other week as a hard grade
Science
1 *Hard grade per week of homework/practice work
1 Assessment every other week as a hard grade
Music & Art
1 *Hard grade per week of homework/practice work
1 Assessment every other week as a hard grade
Latin
1 *Hard grade per week of homework/practice work
1 Assessment every other week as a hard grade
*Hard grade: after practicing the child will be assessed on mastery or improvement
Review week and finals week before Christmas
Review week and finals week at the end of the year
Parent Communication
● Grades will be communicated through ClassReach
● Conduct items will be entered prior to the Fall and Spring Parent Partnership Meetings
● Fall Parent Partnership Meetings will be held on October 19, 20, & 26th
● Teachers will contact parents if a student is struggling academically or socially
● Please use ClassReach as the best way to communicate important information with the staff
Expected Homework Load
Grades at Trinity Classical Academy do not in any way reflect the immeasurable worth and value of each child made in God’s image, but rather they are a reflection of the quality of work in a given field of study at a given time. At [School name], grades serve three basic purposes:
1 To help students to improve
2. To determine the best placement level considering academic ability
3. To provide a just and legitimate means of holding students accountable for the quality of their work
Grades provide a widely understood means of communicating progress and achievement to parents and other parties such as
college entrance boards or other schools to which the young student may transfer
Individual Grades
Trinity Classical Academy will use a unique method of grading that ensures students have time to “practice” before they receive a grade Therefore regular feedback within the scope of the class regarding new concepts will be given and “practice” grades will be recorded within the gradebook. Magnum Opus assignments (best work), that will more greatly affect overall standings, will also be recorded for transcript purposes Consistent with educating the whole child, both attitude and effort will be considered within our grading systems.
Group Project Grades
1 Thessalonians 5: 14 “And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.”
Group projects are a part of coursework and it should be expected that grading of these will not be individualized because we believe that character in community reveals the heart [School name] cares even more about the heart than the academics, group projects allow teachers to see where character work is needed, and since we are preparing students for life, not just college, character in Christian community is integral to “Loving God and Loving Neighbor” (Matt 22:36-40)
Mathematical Grading Policy
Because math problems are objectively right or wrong, grading will follow a simple number correct out of the number of problems. Exercises that are philosophically based will follow the humanities scale (see below)
Math examinations are 70% of the final grade
Math homework, practicums, and projects are 30% of the final grade (group or individual)
Science Grading Policy
Since science is taught through experiments, and discovery, this will be a participation and group project grade in the primary years and will move towards mastery grading through the various scientific fields of study in the secondary years.
Latin Grading Policy
Latin is taught to build vocabulary and continue to grow English as well as Latin grammar skills. Assessments will be based on these concepts and points will be awarded for the purpose of demonstrating mastery.
Humanities Grading Policy
Vocabulary terms, spelling, grammar, and direct character names or dates will be objectively graded and will be on a points-based system With mastery as our goal, students will be asked to correct the wrong answers
Assignments that are more philosophical in nature will be graded on a scale. Within each assignment, grammatical and spelling mistakes will be clearly marked and students will be asked to review the word or grammatical rule and edit their writing. This promotes mastery in writing assignments.
Failing and Retakes
Retakes will be left to the teacher’s discretion. A student who has simply failed for a lack of understanding may be given another opportunity to prove their understanding after further practice A student who neglected their studies and therefore failed, may not be given a retake opportunity.
If a student fails an entire course, the student, parents, and teacher will meet with the *Education Council to determine the best course of action for the student. Circumstances, understanding of directions and effort will all be taken into consideration.
Parents will be notified within three weeks of the end of the grading period if their student is in jeopardy of failing
Conduct
Is teachable and honest:
Receives correction without defensiveness, admits mistakes promptly, tells the truth even when it’s difficult
Respectful of authority:
Follows instructions willingly, responds to teachers and leaders with courtesy, avoids arguing or undermining decisions
Joyful and grateful attitude:
Lives with gratitude, smiles readily, encourages others, avoids grumbling or complaining
Thoughtful and gracious towards others:
Notices others’ needs, offers help without being asked, uses polite words, waits their turn, and includes others in activities
Diligent, hardworking, and persevering:
Stays focused on tasks, completes assignments carefully, asks for help when stuck instead of giving up, and keeps trying even when something is hard.
Courageous and takes initiative:
Stands up for what is right even when alone, admits sin, tries new challenges without fear of failure, and speaks the truth kindly even when it’s unpopular.
PARENT COMMUNICATION AND INVOLVEMENT
At Trinity Classical Academy, we recognize that parents are ultimately responsible for the education and flourishing of their children. We believe that educators are facilitators and advisors as parents pursue this important work.
Parent-Teacher conferences are scheduled as needed. We encourage teachers and parents to communicate regularly about how the student is doing and to schedule formal meetings as needed.
Teachers may be contacted through ClassReach outside of regular working hours When addressing any concerns, parents should copy the school Administration to keep the school informed of classroom circumstances Teachers will do the same when addressing concerns via emails with parents.
If you have a concern about curriculum content, Trinity Classical Academy policy, or philosophy, communicate with school Administration If you have questions about the weekly workings of a particular classroom (e.g., homework load), contact the Lead Teacher through ClassReach At no time should an individual student’s problem be addressed to non-involved parties. In the great majority of cases, if you have worked patiently and in good faith with the teacher and directors, you will find a satisfactory resolution.
Please follow Matthew 18:15 to determine the proper order of communication: “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”
HONOR CODE
Parent Honor Code
I am placing my child as a student at Trinity Classical Academy because I care about my child being educated both in character and in academics I understand that my child will be educated under a Christian worldview and that loving God and neighbor are primary tenets of Trinity Classical Academy I also understand that the responsibility of Christian nurture is ultimately the parents’ responsibility (Eph 6:4, Deuteronomy 6:7-9). I understand that participation in a local church and cultivating a healthy spiritual environment at home are necessary to raising my student(s) in the Lord.
Part of loving God and neighbor means being on time, present, and respectful. Trinity Classical Academy has been very thoughtful in developing a school schedule that allows for solid family time during summers, holidays, and various breaks. For this reason, I understand that school attendance is a way of loving teachers and classmates, and I will ensure that my child is present and on time unless an
emergency arises. In cases of planned absences, I understand that it is my responsibility to communicate with the teachers and make a plan for the class time my child will miss without putting an excessive burden on the teachers. I also understand that poor attendance may cause my child to fall behind
I understand that a uniform policy is a way of loving those around us by respecting a unified and meaningful representation of our school culture, including professionalism, modesty, and our distinct values I will make sure that my child follows the uniform policy so that this culture is maintained.
I understand that my child will need to submit to the authority of Trinity Classical Academy faculty and staff during school events I also understand that I will be ultimately responsible for my child’s behavior while at Trinity Classical Academy, and will therefore follow the directives of the school as outlined below
If a discipline note goes home from a teacher or school Administration, I understand that I need to work with my child on changing their behavior through the heart, by encouraging them to seek forgiveness.
If my child continues to incur infractions, it will be clear to me that I need to discipline my child more seriously and consistently I also agree that my child will be disciplined in accordance with the discipline policy outlined in this handbook, and that I will need to meet with school Administration in cases of excessive office visits to work out a plan designed to correct my child’s disruptive behavior.
If my child continues to remain unresponsive to correction, I understand that my child may be subject to a disciplinary hearing as outlined by the discipline policy of this handbook. I also agree that if my child is subject to a disciplinary hearing before the school board for excessive office visits or for any extreme ungodly behavior that impedes school culture, I will abide by the board's decision. If the school board decides to suspend or expel my child, I understand that tuition will not be reimbursed
I understand that the teachers at Trinity Classical Academy aim to educate the whole person and will keep the wellbeing of the student in mind. Therefore, all efforts will be made to not impede grading as it may affect my child’s next steps
By enrolling my child in Trinity Classical Academy, I understand the important mission of working with all children. I know that this may expose my child to sudden behaviors such as fits, or outbursts as we partner with parents in discipling their children. I also understand that, no matter the special need, behavior that falls into the category of “serious discipline case,” including unsafe behavior that endangers
others or overt moral issues, will be addressed through a discipline hearing and not excused because of the special need
Secondary Student Honor Code
As a student of Trinity Classical Academy, I pledge to uphold the values that form the pillars of our culture Excellence, Gratitude, Discipline, and Respect. By committing to this honor code, I strive to reflect the character of Christ in my thoughts, words, and actions, both on and off campus.
Excellence
I will pursue what is true, good, and beautiful in my academics, relationships, and endeavors. I will give my best effort in all that I do, knowing that excellence honors God and reflects His glory
Gratitude
I will cultivate a heart of thankfulness, recognizing that all I have is a gift from God. I will express joy and humility, embracing challenges and blessings with a spirit of gratitude.
Discipline
I will develop self-control and perseverance, completing my work with diligence and integrity I will steward my time, talents, and responsibilities in a way that glorifies God and serves others.
Respect
I will treat others with kindness and dignity, acknowledging them as image-bearers of Christ. I will demonstrate respect in my speech, actions, and interactions, creating a community of trust and care
By adhering to this honor code, I commit to growing in character and virtue, fulfilling my role as a student and servant of Christ. I understand that my actions reflect not only on myself but also on my school and the Lord I serve
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Lunch
Students will bring packed lunches to be eaten in their classroom or outside if the weather permits Please pack lunches that do not have to be heated or refrigerated Please alert us of any severe allergies so that we are aware (please provide an epinephrine pen if severe reactions occur) At [School name], we value health and wellness, so please keep this in mind when packing lunches, as your young students will be learning about nutrition, a balanced diet, etc A well “fueled” brain enhances the learning experience.
Snacks
Parents are welcome to send an easy to eat snack (we recommend a nutritious snack) for mid-morning. Water is the only beverage allowed to accompany snacks.
Health Records
We require either a certificate of immunization, a certificate of religious exemption, or a certificate of medical exemption This can be accessed through the state registry (ImmPRINT). This must be uploaded to ClassReach during the enrollment process
Administration of Medicines
Administration may administer over-the-counter medication to the children in their care but only with authorization from the child’s parent or guardian through the ClassReach release form
We reserve the right to refuse the responsibility of prescription administration for any reason. If this occurs, we will be happy to accommodate parent visits during the day for the purpose of medication administration
Illness Policy
In consideration of your young student’s wellness, in addition, preventing the spread of illness to your child’s classmates and teachers, a young student should be symptom-free a full 24 hours from the following before returning to onsite classes:
● Fever - Temperature of 100 degrees or above without the use of fever-reducing medication
● Vomiting/diarrhea
● Please do not send children with highly contagious illnesses such as strep, hand/foot/mouth, or pinkeye (to name a few).
Government Agency Requests
Trinity Classical Academy values our parent partnership and as such we will notify parents of any interaction with a government agency such as child protective services, as it relates to your child. Our policy is as follows:
*Parents will be notified and their presence requested prior to a government agency being allowed to interview a child during school hours.
*Trinity Classical Academy will do its best to uphold this policy with any government agency but cannot be held liable if we are not able to get a hold of a family or if the government agency uses legal force to demand the interview.
ACADEMIC SCHEDULE
Calendar
The Academic Calendar is located on our website
Daily Schedule
8:30 - 12:30 for half day students
8:30-3:15 for full day students
Arrival and Dismissal
Students are able to arrive between 8:15-8:30
Students must be picked up between 12:30-12:45 for half day students and 3:15-3:30
for full day students.
A fee will be implemented if there is early arrival or late pick up Consistent early arrival or late pick up will constitute a meeting with Administration.
Attendance
Trinity Classical Academy has intentionally set its vacations, schedule, and structure to allow important time for families. By registering a child in [School name}, the parent or guardian is agreeing to this schedule and it is loving to the community of students to be in attendance. Emergencies or important family time arise from time to time; therefore students have 6 Core academic days* within each semester for school absences without consequence to their credits unless pre-approvals are arranged We ask that the Administration be notified as soon as possible for any absences. A student that surpasses 12 days, or a total of 6 days in a semester will be subject to an Education Council review .
For sickness: please notify administration through the ClassReach form provided.
For prolonged periods of absence (to extend beyond the 6 academic days in a semester) please get pre-approval from the Head of School All work would need to be followed up after the absence and educational packets will not be provided.
*Emergency situations will obviously be taken into consideration.
Tardies
A student who arrives later than 8:30 AM is considered tardy Four tardies within a month will constitute a parent email. A 5th tardy will result in an office visit. Subsequent tardies will be treated as office visits in accordance with the discipline policy
ENROLLMENT POLICY
Regarding candidates for admission, we are a Classical Christian school committed to partnering with Christian parents who share our mission and are intentionally nurturing a Christ-formed paideia in their homes
Enrollment Process
1. General Inquiry
2 Family Interview Request
3. Admissions Interview to ensure alignment with Christian living.
4 Assessment of student
5. Application
6 Enrollment
7. Tuition Agreement
Children diagnosed with a learning disability are welcome to apply for admissions to Trinity Classical Academy so long as we can serve them well and they can meet, or be assisted to meet, the discipline standards of the classroom, discussions, and daily routine.
Students applying for admissions should have a desire to receive this form of education. We do not mind assisting parents in fostering this desire, but the student needs to at the very least be “willing to be made willing” to be discipled through a Classical Christian education.
General Agreement: All parents and students who are enrolling in Trinity Classical Academy affirm by their application and enrollment their intentional willingness to abide by the Christian conduct (word and deed) presented in this handbook and all other school documents, both expressed and implied. This includes the Statement of Faith, Cultural Issues, attending church, and all policies stated herein.
TUITION
For more information, please see the Tuition & Fee Policy
EVALUATIONS
1 Teachers will evaluate students regularly for the purpose of assessing skill and knowledge
2 Teachers are evaluated unannounced throughout the year
3. The administration will be assessed periodically by the staff.
4 Parents will evaluate the school annually
Anti-Discrimination and ADA Statement
Trinity Classical Academy admits students and hires employees without regard to race, color, national origin, or ethnic origin, ensuring equal access to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally available to our school community. We are committed to upholding applicable nondiscriminatory policies in the administration of educational policies, admissions, scholarships, loan programs, athletics, and other school-administered activities Trinity Classical Academy does not accept federal funds.
Disclaimer
The reader should take notice that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided herein, Trinity Classical Academy reserves the right to make changes at any time without prior notice. Parents will be notified of any changes to the handbook that occur during the current academic year. Trinity Classical Academy provides the information herein solely for the convenience of the reader and, to the extent permissible by law, expressly disclaims any liability which may otherwise be incurred