A St. Clair mom and attorney is looking for parents interested in giving their child a private education based on a classical curriculum provided by Hillsdale College.
Kelly Oldford has young children, and she knows what kind of education she wants to give them. Unfortunately, the rigorous liberal arts instruction that she feels is the best way to educate young children isn’t taught anywhere near her home.
That’s why Oldford decided to to pursue starting the Huron Classical Liberal Arts (HCLA) Academy with a goal of opening a Pre-K- 5th grade private school in the fall of 2024. HCLA Academy plans to add a new school year each year after they start, eventually becoming a Pre-K – 12th grade academy.
Oldford is in the research phase of her endeavor, and she’s hoping to connect with other parents in St. Clair and Macomb county who are interested in enrolling their children in HCLA Academy.
Hillsdale Curriculum is focused on what they call “An American Classical Education” which emphasizes reading original documents and classic literature, and providing regular instruction in art and music in all levels of learning.
Students also study Latin throughout middle school, using a classic Latin curriculum in 6-8th grade, and they use Singapore Math, which uses a progression approach to the teaching of mathematics and is focused on mastery.
Although Hillsdale is a Christian College, there is no religious instruction in their Pre-K – 12th curriculum. Oldford said HCLA Academy will not be a religious or Christian school.
“I am interested in finding parents who are willing to commit to this type of school with me. I’ve gotten really positive feedback, but I need parental support and motivation in order to get this off the ground,” said Oldford.
Parents interested in learning more and getting on the waiting list for Huron Classical Liberal Arts Academy can visit huronclassical.com.
Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand
