THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CORAM DEO ACADEMY FALL 2019
Vasa Foundational Lessons from Sweden’s 17th Century Flagship by CDA’s Dr. Robert Armstrong
Training ethical servant-leaders & wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God Production Collabor ation Executive Editor: Samantha Davis The Forum The University-Model® Editors: Barbara Rogers From the Office of the President Kelly Stumph Diana Weatherford Feature Photographer: Kennedy Thornton Collaboration noun – Layout and Design: Andrew Kendall to work jointly on an activity, especially
MarCom Awards honors excellence in marketing and communication to produce or create something while recognizing the creativity, hard work and generosity of industry (Oxford Dictionary). professionals. Since its inception in 2004, MarCom has evolved into one of the largest, most-respected creative competitions in the world. Each year, about 6,000 print and digital entries are submitted from dozens of hristian, classical, and countries. – MarCom Awards collaborative are the three words that describe Cthe Coram Deo Academy model of education. These three words Contents are our foundational attributes, otherwise known as our Legacy: Emma Weatherford 4 “distinctives.” Certainly, much Cover Story: Facing the Wind 6 has been printed about Christian The Church Family 8 education, as well as classical Embraced by Christian, Classical, Collaborative Education 10 education, but not nearly as much has been written about collaborative A Personal Impact 12 education. Most classical, Christian The Centrality of the Trivium 14 schools purport to collaborate with Diamonds & BowTie Ball and Our Partners 16 parents to educate students to some Your Giving Makes an Impact 18 extent, but at CDA collaboration is represented by the University- Model®, a model in which partnership Lion’s Roar is taken to an entirely different level. In the University-Model®, Christian Flip Magazine educators recognize the mandate established in Deuteronomy 6:5-9: Local Missions: Camp Blessing 2 3-Sport Champions: Kacey Heitschmidt and Caleb Johnson 4 “5Love the Lord your God The Fine Arts 6 Student Successes: Latin 8 with all your heart and Fifth Graders Explore Texas History 10 with all your soul and with Cover Story: Claire Druffner 12 all your strength. 6These CDA Campuses commandments that I
Collin County Flower Mound give you today are to be Pre-K to 12 Pre-K to 12 9645 Independence Pkwy 4900 Wichita Trail 7 Plano, TX 75025 Flower Mound, TX 75022 on your hearts. Impress Phone 469.854.1300 Phone 682.237.0232 them on your children. Dallas COMING ‘20-’21 Mid-Cities Pre-K to 9 Pre-K to 6 7777 Lyndon B Johnson Fwy 3800 Highway 121 Talk about them when Dallas, TX 75251 Bedford, TX 76021 Phone 972.385.6410
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2 you sit at home and when you walk students are taught and encouraged to appreciate knowledge and to love the process of learning. along the road, when you lie down and Many CDA graduates report that after mastering the ® 8 University-Model , they were well prepared for the academic when you get up. Tie them as symbols rigors of college and able to confidently employ time- management and self-leadership skills. CDA alumni realize, on your hands and bind them on your before even entering their collegiate lecture-halls, that at foreheads. 9Write them on the doorframes least two hours of “homework” are required for every hour of in-class instruction. This is a lesson that many traditional of your houses and on your gates.” students take several semesters to learn, if ever, and often at great cost to their grade point averages, college transcripts, and wallets. With this, University-Model® educators believe that parents are commissioned by God to be the primary educators Another intangible benefit of the CDA approach is that the ® of their children, and that the purpose of professional home component of the University-Model makes the entire teachers and administrators is to partner with parents in educational experience more effective. Educational research this most important endeavor. This is where the definition overwhelmingly reports a positive correlation between of “collaboration” becomes so instructive. In the University- parental involvement and academic performance; the more Model®, CDA teachers work jointly with parents to “train parental involvement, the better the educational outcome. ethical servant-leaders and wise thinkers who will shape Study after study has shown that students thrive in an culture for the glory of God.” environment in which parents are more involved. Excepting the homeschool model, no other educational model requires so To accomplish this task, students attend typical classical, much parental involvement. However, the University-Model® Christian classes two days per week (either Monday and leverages the expertise that professional educators provide in Wednesday, or Tuesday and Thursday) and participate in the classroom component. This is particularly important in the the home component during the alternate days of the week. higher grades where homeschool parents may struggle with Most students also take elective classes on Fridays, to include teaching or tutoring subjects outside of their own expertise. courses such as: band, choir, and art, as well as some mandatory Oftentimes, higher-level intricate subjects such as chemistry, laboratory sessions in higher grades. The home component trigonometry, and physics, present difficulties for homeschool is not simply a traditional homeschool education, in which families. The collaborative University-Model® provides the parents provide initial content as well homework and testing. best of both worlds with professional instruction and robust In the University-Model® all content, homework, and testing parental involvement. is provided by the teacher on campus. The parent then acts as Collaboration is the secret ingredient that makes the CDA a tutor in the early grades, or as a mentor in higher grades. By experience a truly revolutionary movement. Christian the time students have been in the model for a few years, the education is fundamental, Classical education is excellent, main role that parents typically play is monitor, ensuring that but collaborative education is effective. An educational students stay on track during their studies. approach that combines all three of these elements is While it may be difficult to quantify the value of a University- transformational! ® Model education, many CDA graduates and parents can attest to the many benefits. Through the Christian, classical, collaborative approach, CDA students learn to take ownership of their spiritual lives, academic performance, and interpersonal relationships thus demonstrating a Dr. J. Alan Marshall, Colonel, USAF (Retired) level of personal maturity that is beyond that of their Coram Deo Academy President traditionally educated peers. In an academic world that fosters unproductive, indulgent educational practices, CDA
3 Emma Weatherford CLASS OF 2015 FLOWER MOUND 1ST–12TH GRADE BAYLOR UNIVERSITY 2019 BA University Scholars – Biology, Medical Humanities
CDA’s influence now extends to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious schools of tropical medicine, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). As a Fulbright Scholar, Emma is studying the interface between human, animal, and environmental health in a master’s program jointly administered by the LSHTM and the Royal Veterinary College. The MSc in One Health is a holistic study of infectious diseases and contemporary strategies for fighting them. Emma’s interest in the medical field took root in Mrs. Ligon’s freshman biology class, but her preparation began in her early years at CDA.
Describe some valuable parts of your CDA education The teachers! When I was in grammar school, not thinking great thoughts about being a servant-leader, the teachers provided an example of what Christian living, and servant- leadership looks like. My CDA teachers invested deeply in the lives of all students, and I am grateful for their influence. The University-Model® helped me develop self-discipline. From 1st through 12th grade this model, by design, slowly shifted from my parents’ intense oversight to me taking ownership; I learned how to manage my academic and extra-curricular activities. Thus, the collaborative model was a critical part of doors opening to me in many areas of my life. The communication training from Ms. Loe, Dr. Heitschmidt, Mrs. Powell, Mrs. Colvin, and Mrs. Blair has proved invaluable. Knowing how to write a paper and give a presentation were second nature by the time I arrived at college. The same skills are required to write a lab report or an English paper. Having the ability to stand and speak to any audience has provided many opportunities for learning and service.
4 legacy
Explain your undergraduate degree As a University Scholars major, I pursued a multifaceted pre- medical education. This degree plan gave me substantial freedom in choosing courses. The combination of science and humanities classes allowed me to study medicine from different angles. My science courses taught me to consider human beings as organisms with well-regulated and predictable natural processes. In the Medical Humanities department, I learned to think of both the patient and the doctor as persons subject to influences and needs that cannot be reduced to physical processes. And in my Great Texts courses, I learned to place disease within the context of a full human life. While reading Boethius’ masterpiece The Consolation of Philosophy, I discovered that the great questions – “What is the good life?” “What is justice?” – are not merely toys for the privileged but indeed of the utmost importance to the suffering.
Serving in Kenya Emma’s Fulbright award is intended I have had the honor of working with the Straw to Bread team for more than graduate study. The heart of the Fulbright Program is on the Nyakach Plateau in western Kenya. This work began with “the enduring belief that those who a medical mission trip and has blossomed into a partnership spend time immersed in another including a school, hospital, women’s health programs, and culture will have a profoundly clean air and clean water projects. It’s about Christians, from different and deeper understanding two different continents, coming together. of the world, make lasting friends and return home a more rounded Lisa Baker, MD PhD, Executive Director of Straw to Bread and and empathetic global citizen.” Baylor professor, expressed her own observations of Emma -UK Commission and gratitude to CDA: CDA launched Emma as a spectacular student who believes that education is nothing less than a great privilege. She took class discussion to a whole new level, and I have never heard presentations so eloquently delivered. Currently, the best school of Tropical Medicine in the world is shaping her to be a leader in Global Health. But before that, Emma went with my team three times to work with a Kenyan community in a destitute, remote area of the country. She was soon brimming over with love for “I count knowing Emma Weatherford as one of the greatest “the least of these,” and she flourished in a world where she could serve people who suffer from hunger and dire poverty. Emma privileges I have had in my time in higher education. She stood out among other awesome students because her leadership is keenly intelligent, deeply thoughtful, kind, generous style was to rush to sign up for the most difficult jobs and to be the with her time, and a faithful friend and mentor to all who first to ask, “What else needs to be done?” The delightful thing know her. Her life exemplifies our calling to love the Lord about Emma is that her humility keeps her from knowing that with heart, mind, soul, and strength. Her joy in learning is she is a superstar. Emma’s intellectual and spiritual brilliance evident to all who encountered her, and in her, we see what have prepared Emma to make a difference in our world. She is a disciplined scientist in her professional goals, she is a it means to love the Lord with our minds. Her study is not discerning student in her inner work, and she is an artist with merely learning for learning’s sake. Rather, her desire is to her life. Thanks, CDA! grow in knowledge and wisdom so that she might better serve God’s kingdom and those around her. She models the Why medicine? life of a faithful student who embraces the opportunities What I love about medicine is the moral clarity. You have a she has been given to pursue higher education and does so patient and you’re going to help and advocate for that patient as much as you can. There’s no question of whether they deserve as an act of stewardship of her many gifts.” it or not. And, I know as a patient, how much it means to have – Dr. Jason Whitt, Baylor professor, Emma’s advisor for her Honors a doctor walk with you through a really alarming part of life, Thesis, co-director of the William Carey Crane’s Scholars Program, to be your fearless leader and tell you how things are going to and Faculty Steward for the Honors Residential College work. I really want to do that for other people.
5 Facing the Wind A parable of style over substance
n the mid 1620s, King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden commissioned the building of a new flagship for his navy. It was to be the symbol of Sweden’s power and strike fear Iin her enemies at its mere appearance on the horizon. This new flagship, Vasa, would put all others to shame. It would be bigger, stronger, and more beautiful than any ship ever built.
6 Dr. Robert Armstrong, Collin County Campus Administrator & Rhetoric School Principal
Vasa was finished in 1628, and she was a beauty! With This principle is at the heart of CDA. Classical education from a massive sail power, regal design, and heavily armed with an biblical worldview focuses on establishing the core ballast. CDA unprecedented number of cannons, Vasa would dominate the strives to equip and train students to weather and defeat the seas and demonstrate Swedish power. The crew and their enemy’s attacks and remain upright amid the storms of life. families proudly boarded for the maiden voyage from the There is no greater call to parents and educators than to build shipyards to a naval station in the Stockholm archipelago. up students in such a manner. I believe there is no better place Citizens turned out in great numbers to watch the mighty war to achieve such a goal than CDA. machine make her way through the inland waterways and were delighted at what they saw. Less than a mile into her first voyage, Vasa encountered a puff of wind, barely a breeze. As her sails filled, the ship leaned.Vasa heeled even more with the next gust of wind, took on water through the open gun ports, and sank. The crowd’s cheers of Dr. Armstrong has been involved with Christian education jubilation turned to panic as those aboard were cast into the for over 30 years and has served as a teacher, coach, water. The ship went down in full view of the crowd, still in the Dean, Admission and Marketing Director, and 20 years as a harbor, and nowhere near an enemy. Thirty people perished. Headmaster. He is married to Beverly, his wife of 40 years. They have three married children and 7 grandchildren. Why did this beautiful and powerful flagship sail only 1400 Beverly has her master’s degree in Humanities from the yards? Because it didn’t have adequate ballast below the water University of Dallas and teaches both High School and line. It couldn’t support what had been built above the water College-level courses. line. The king’s urgency and focus on how the ship looked failed to prepare Vasa with adequate ballast to keep her upright in the water. We can identify with King Adolphus’s hopes. He desired to invest in something that could weather the storms and defeat the enemy. The inability to achieve this desired outcome was due to a greater concern about what the ship looked like rather than sound engineering. As parents, we pray that our investment in our children will give them the ability to face the storms of life. This is what matters most. It’s a principle echoed in Matthew 7:24-25. Jesus uses the contrasting image of a house built on the sand with one built on the rock. “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.”
7 From L to R: Lillian, Britton, Adleigh, Beth, Caleb
Church Family What led your family to CDA? As our oldest child approached school age, we began asking questions about different education models, and what our convictions were regarding how we would educate our children. We were certain of a couple of things: 1 We wanted our children’s education to be from a Christian worldview. 2 We did not want a framework that would have our children out of the house 35 – 40 hours a week. 3 We were intrigued with the classical approach. 4 100% homeschool seemed very daunting!
8 family
Is there a particular insight about Christian, classical, What are the best and most challenging parts of collaborative education which triggered your decision walking through this collaborative journey with to enroll? your child? There are a number of great classical schools in Dallas that are The home days are the most challenging, especially attempting to educate kids using the trivium. However, CDA Wednesdays. We have been working on a more consistent was the only one offering a collaborative model from K–12, daily approach to the workload. This challenge has also been which was the deciding factor for us. We enrolled our oldest in a great opportunity for us to focus on doing things with kindergarten at the Dallas Campus. excellence and instilling personal responsibility and good attitudes in our kids. Why have you continued to reenroll your children? Now that we have been involved at CDA for over three years, we What are you most thankful for at CDA? have become more convinced that the classical, Christian, and We have really grown to love the community of families at CDA. collaborative approach is an excellent model to educate young It is encouraging to be linked up with other parents striving minds. It provides our children with a rigorous, Christ-centered to fulfill the awesome responsibility of shaping these young education while keeping an appropriate life balance and allows souls into God-fearing men and women. Some of our closest parents to be more hands-on in teaching our children. friendships are now centered around other CDA families, and for that we are most grateful. What expectations did you have about CDA prior to enrolling? In what ways, if any, did those shift after What advice or insight would you give to a family who becoming a part of the CDA community? is curious about CDA? One of the expectations was that the home days would be If a Christian, classical, and collaborative education is difficult and grinding. Obviously, some days are harder than something you are exploring, I encourage you to dive in. others, but one of the best surprises has been the great support It might be more time-consuming, and one could argue a that moms provide to each other throughout the week. The more difficult road, but we are convinced that the hard work daily “Group Me” messages asking questions on homework or bears much fruit. asking for different ideas has been such a blessing.
Has CDA made a difference in your family culture or schedule? Without a doubt the model has had a huge impact on our family. Our children get more time together, which has kept the siblings close. Our schedule has become more about experiencing this life that God has blessed us with rather than chasing a test score or whatever the world has deemed as “success.” Whether it is horseback riding on Wednesday mornings, rock climbing in the afternoons, or the daily character development and training around the house, the CDA model has fundamentally changed our family dynamic in a very positive way.
What impact has CDA’s collaborative style of education had on you as a parent? The collaborative approach provides a framework for generational learning. Our entire family reads more literature and has been drawn to the beauty of good books. Also, it has made us work closely with our kids and has allowed us to see the way God created them with different gifts, desires, and areas that need cultivating. And, let’s be honest, spending more time with our kids is sanctifying for us!
9 Embraced by Christian, Classical, Collaborative Education by Hillary Brubaker
“Each class, each activity… has
been more than ne year ago, I was brand new to Coram Deo Academy, brand new to Flower Mound, brand new to Texas. At the beginning of the school academic. Each has year, I sat in orientation and listened with enthusiasm and trepidation as a mom of five CDA graduates shared about her many years of built character into involvement with this wonderful school. I was holding onto her every our son…” Oword because there were so many question marks for our family. All the insecurities of changing states, houses, and schools were balled up within my mothering heart. I wanted desperately to hang my hopes upon the joys and experiences she had gained, to assure my boys that God is in control. God is here. We had just moved from a tiny town in western Colorado and landed in Flower Mound, Texas, to be close to CDA. I was so, so grateful and hopeful for this opportunity. I wish I could say that my boys felt the same. However, I have to confess that though my soon-to-be eighth grader was excited for the academic challenge of CDA, it is NEVER easy to transplant a 13-year-old and convince him of how great it will be to be the new student! And my fourth grader—oh, man—he almost had us convinced that we made a mistake enrolling him, and that he should be a homeschooler forever. We even met with the principal to see if we should keep him home. Thankfully, she gently and graciously encouraged us. She listened to us pour out our concerns and helped us see what God had in store for Ryan. We decided to honor our covenant to CDA. We told Ryan that neither we, nor God, had made a mistake and to give it one year. Best. Decision. Ever! The year was all that I hoped for and unimaginably more. God started pouring out on my boys and our family from day one.
10 The eighth grade class was so kind. Kids saw him; because he had a sweet, small was, brand new, feeling super hopeful, were welcoming to our son, and Landon group of classmates who accepted him but also a little unsure. Then my prayer didn’t just survive—he thrived! What and invited him in; and because he had for you is that God would give you peace looked like rigorous courses on paper, meaningful work to challenge him. It’s that surpasses all understanding, that became spiritually stimulating classes so exciting to be a fourth grader, right? He would fan into flame that hope, and that inspired growth, ignited passion, From the History Festival to the Fun Run that He would surprise you day after day and gave so much more than we had to the Iron Student Challenge in P.E. and with joy and gladness that your children imagined. The teachers were beyond just so much more, our family has lived this get to be here. Get to! It is such a privilege “good” teachers. They became mentors excitement with him and we have loved for each of us—this little piece of heaven and friends to Landon. Each class, each every second of it. We didn’t just embrace on earth. activity, each assignment has been more this Christian, classical, collaborative I am with David when he writes in than academic. Each has built character model of education; it embraced us. It Psalm 16:6 (NIV), “The boundary lines into our son, and we could not be more encouraged us. It changed us as a family. have fallen for me in pleasant places.” thankful! And our fourth grader? Wow! And wow! What an amazing year! The boundary lines are just so good He could easily be the poster child for at CDA, and I can’t thank God, the I don’t know which seat you’re sitting CDA. Once he crossed the threshold into administration, the families—each in today. Maybe, you’ve been at CDA for his little cozy classroom, he changed of you—enough for embracing our years and you’ve had several children from a fearful and anxious young boy family and allowing us to journey with walk the halls. If so, you are blessed! You to someone who could barely fall asleep you all. We get to be here together, and have no doubt gained so much, and my at night. He was just so excited to get to I am so thankful! go to school the next day! Get, did y’all hope for you is that God would continue read that?! He’s felt that way all year to encourage you and breathe life and long because he had a teacher who truly hope into you. Or maybe you are like I
The Brubaker boys - Landon (9th Grade) and Ryan (5th Grade) The Brubaker Family (from left) - Ryan, Alex, Hillary, Landon, Bailey the dog, and sister, Hannah.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
11 A Personal ImpactLisa Lohstroh CDA Flower Mound Admissions Coordinator
n 1994, I started homeschooling my oldest child. The instructors who are well-trained and passionate about their following year I heard an interview on the radio discussing field of study. Lastly, and critically, time management skills classical, Christian education and knew then it was the were developed due to the nature of the University-Model® and way in which I wanted to educate my four children. I rigor of the coursework. spent many hours researching and planning materials As a CDA admissions coordinator for the Flower Mound to teach in a Christian, classical way. Fifteen years after that I Campus, I now have an opportunity to share my passion radio program, I began to recognize the cumulative effect of about education with others. In particular, I am grateful to this educational continuum as my children flourished and be part of a school that gives time back to the family while advanced in their education. encouraging Christian teaching and training that also excels While homeschooling was going well, I started to feel the need in academic rigor and college preparation. While there are for more support. I saw the value in a greater availability of many educational philosophies that have come and gone over quality academic classes and more socialization. My oldest the years, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits that a Christian, was already in college and my second child was almost through classical, and collaborative education offers. high school by the time that I heard about Coram Deo Academy from some of my friends. In 2010 after attending two admission I have witnessed the impact of this education on events, we decided to enroll our two younger children in fourth my own children. My older daughter has a master’s and sixth grade. Although the campus was some distance from degree in nursing education, manages a health clinic my home, I realized that I saved time as I had been expending hours driving several children to different homeschool classes, and is currently studying to be a nurse practitioner. sports, and lessons. In addition, I was no longer a college My oldest son received a computer science degree guidance counselor, homeschool co-op organizer, curriculum and is a thriving computer programmer. My third researcher, and teacher! child, CDA class of 2017, is a junior at Texas A&M I am grateful to have found both challenging and attainable educational standards with teaching that is interwoven majoring in finance, and my youngest graduated with a Christian worldview. Since CDA encourages athletic from CDA in 2019 and is a freshman at Texas A&M participation, my children were able to learn and play new and majoring in biomedical science. My partnership as a various sports. Specifically, my daughter discovered a passion for track and field after signing up for the sport in sixth grade. parent collaborating with CDA may have ended, but Also, during the school-sponsored ninth grade college tour, I am blessed to walk alongside new families as they my son decided he wanted to be a Texas A&M Aggie. begin their CDA journey. Furthermore, because of CDA’s focus on public speaking, my children experienced many opportunities each year for presentations and debates, and both of them were taught by
12 Christian, Classical & Collaborative The Educational Format That Works Best
SAT Composite Comparison “I love the conversations I have with my children. I love their love for history, for the world, for His Word. I love how they interact with strangers, The SAT scores 1,273 the kindness that they show, and how they are for the Class of learning to learn, learning to succeed, learning to 2018 were in the fail, and learning to be gracious. I truly think that top 15% of the 1,270 this model is the best of all worlds.” – CDA Parent nation. 1,081 Class of 2018 CDA -Yr. Avg. 1,041 N t’ 5 Yr. A g. GRADUATES SINCE 2002 637 Te s 5 Yr. A g. trained to shape culture for the glory of God 0 1 000
“I always felt like my friends and teachers were more like my family than anything else. I had people around me, encouraging me and pushing me in my faith. I think that’s one of the best parts about attending a smaller school.” – 2019 Graduate
Of the high school students who took AP ACT Composite Comparison tests in the last 5 years, CDA had an
% The Class of 2018 27.7 83 AP PASS RATE (5-YEAR) scored in the top In the last 5 years, all Texas students had 11% of the nation a 50% pass rate on the ACT test. 27.
21.0 10 Available AP Courses Class of 2018 CDA -Yr. Avg. 3 Required for graduation 20.7 N t’ 5 Yr. A g. 10 Dual Credit Courses Te s 5 Yr. A g. (through Colorado Christian University) 0 10 20 30
National Merit Since 2014 230+ Area Churches 7 National Merit Scholars represented by the students of CDA 18 Commended Students 79% of the Class of 2019 volunteered in 10 Hispanic Scholars their church or community 71% went on a mission trip in high school
13 “Gr ammar, Logic, Rhetoric” the meaning of the trivium
Gr ammar The Centr ality When most of us hear the word “grammar,” we think of formal grammar, which includes things like identifying parts of speech in a sentence or perhaps sentence diagramming. However, the art of grammar in the classical Christian tradition is much more than this. It consists of two parts: interpreting the Triviumof . texts and communicating with words. The French poet, Charles Péguy, wrote about the importance in Classical, Christian, of the art of interpreting texts: “Teaching people to read, such would be the sole and true end of a skillful education; let the Collaborative Education reader know how to read and all is saved.” Skillful reading opens the door to understanding Revelation and is also a by Mr. Robert Terry golden key that opens the treasuries of the wisdom of the ages. Students learn phonics, practice oral narration, read both independently and aloud, and study history in order to build polonius – What do you read, key skills needed to interpret texts and open themselves up to my lord? wisdom. It is easy to see why it is crucial to the future academic success of students to develop a love of reading and to hear hamlet – Words, words, words. and read many good books over the course of childhood. Latin or another ancient language also forms part of the grammar [William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Act 2, Scene 2] curriculum. These practices will help establish a foundation for all of the arts that follow. The second aspect of grammar study is summarized by the hat more human things are there great Christian thinker of the late Roman period, Cassiodorus, than words? We tell stories, ask who writes that the “grammatical art is the skill of speaking questions, read books, compose stylishly gathered from famous poets and writers; its function is to compose prose and verse without fault; its purpose is to email, pray, sing, and attempt to please by impeccable skill of polished speech and writing.” persuadeW with words. The ancients knew this The ability to write and speak well is the second aspect of the well and they formulated a series of arts that art of grammar. The development of this skill comes through every free person should pursue to realize their oral and written narration and the progression through the classical writing program of the progymnasmata, which is human potential. They called this the three- a systematic step-by-step set of writing exercises designed fold way, or in Latin, the Trivium. The Trivium to cultivate great writing and prepare for the final art of the is composed of the arts of grammar, dialectic Trivium - rhetoric. It should be noted that one never fully (also referred to as logic), and rhetoric. In their completes the art of grammar and the building of this skill. most basic form, they allowed a person to read, Logic or Dialectic write and speak well, to reason correctly, and Dialectic is the art of reasoning. It includes the study of formal to persuade beautifully. These arts allow us logic, logical fallacies, the art of questioning, and discussion to learn anything that comes through words, of ideas. The student trained in logic can identify whether and as such, form a core element of a classical an argument is valid and sound, and they are trained to recognize various fallacies that can be found in places like the Christian education. They define the educated media and advertising. But this art isn’t only about analyzing person in respect to language. Let us take a the arguments of others; it is also about subjecting our own deeper look at each of these arts in turn. thinking to careful scrutiny and questioning as we seek to know and understand the Truth.
14 Photo by Jenny Marvin
Rhetoric Rhetoric is the final art of the Trivium that mingles grammar and logic skills and turns them to the art of persuasion. The term “rhetoric” sometimes has negative connotations in our culture, but for the Christian and classical tradition it is about communicating Truth in a way that makes it beautiful and attractive. The Roman teacher Quintilian defined an orator as “a good man speaking well” showing that even for the pre-Christian Romans, the virtue of the speaker was a part of the rhetorical art. The art is about using the available means of persuasion in the service of Truth. For Christians, the highest form of rhetoric was to be put into the service of God, so that the preacher was able to put the Word of God into the words of men. The Trivium as Stages “Teaching people to read, such of Learning One final aspect that should be mentioned in relation to the would be the sole and true end modern adaptation of the Trivium comes from Dorothy Sayers of a skillful education; let the in her 1947 speech, The Lost Tools of Learning. Sayers reasoned that the Trivium could be recast as stages of child development. reader know how to read and This idea has been picked up by many modern classical all is saved.” – Charles Péguy schools. In her model, the Grammar Stage corresponds to the period of early childhood which stresses observation, language acquisition, poetry memorization, chants, and songs. The Dialectic Stage comes when students are disposed to arguments and developing discursive reasoning through writing and debates. Finally, the Rhetoric Stage comes when students begin formal rhetoric study and their creative self- expression comes to the forefront.
The rediscovery of the Trivium by classical educators is a key factor in the success of the modern classical movement. This art helps to cultivate wise and virtuous students who will be well equipped for the many challenges to be faced in the future, whether they be college students, business owners, employees, parents, or pastors.
15 This elegant evening of dining, dancing, and fun would not be possible without our volunteers, sponsors, partners, and friends. Thank you!
The Diamonds & BowTie Ball provides a special opportunity to support Coram Deo Academy. In 2018, every teacher at CDA received a special Christmas bonus as a result of the generosity of our guests. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take home an item from the live auction, capture memories in the photo booth, and win great prizes! All proceeds help Coram Deo Academy train ethical servant-leaders and wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God.
16 Our Partners Keep Us Going Thank you for supporting the students, faculty and staff by partnering with Coram Deo Academy to advance our mission.
17 Capital Fund Your This provides for facilities, infrastructure, property, and equipment needs for the fulfillment of our mission across giving all campuses. Collin County Modulars were renovated with fresh paint, new carpet, makes an and a new office. In addition, expansions were made to the weight room and locker room. The Impact: Logic and rhetoric school students who take impact classes in the modulars now have a more comfortable learning environment. Also, Collin County athletes now have more space to train. Discover how Dallas students on New renovations have created one new rhetoric school classroom, expanded an existing logic school classroom, every campus and created two new offices in the education building. The Impact: Current logic school students and future rhetoric school students now have more space to learn benefit when and grow. you generously Flower Mound sow into Campus beautification efforts have brought a new monument sign in front of the campus, fresh paint in the grammar and logic schools, and new artwork that aligns with classical curriculum. In addition, the athletic field Cor am Deo doubled in size! The Impact: Students now have a more beautiful learning Academy environment. In addition, three athletic teams can now practice on the field at once.
Mid-Cities God has blessed us with a fourth campus, Coram Deo Academy Mid-Cities. This location is now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year. The Impact: Families in the Mid-Cities area of Dallas Fort Worth can now take part in the mission to train ethical servant-leaders and wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God. God’s mission is going forward through this opportunity to serve more families!
The CDA Flag Football Team enjoying fellowship
18 CDA Fund Ways to Give Tuition simply doesn’t cover all of the programs our Coram Deo Academy is training ethical servant- students know and love. Gifts to the CDA Fund benefit Fine Arts, Athletics, our teachers, and more! leaders and wise thinkers who will shape culture The Impact: Students are learning from teachers with for the glory of God. Consider making a year end advanced expertise in Classical education. Gifts to the tax-deductible gift to support this mission. CDA fund allow teachers to gain additional certification through CDA’s unique Classical Teacher Certification program. In addition, the CDA Fund further equips the Fine Arts and Athletics programs with resources, providing a vibrant learning experience for our students. ONLINE coramdeoacademy.org/support-cda
GIVE MONTHLY Routine giving allows us to plan for the future and promotes the sustainability of CDA.
BY PHONE (972) 691-5648 Student athletes serving at The Oaks at Flower Mound assisted living and memory care facility. Servant- BY MAIL Leadership Coram Deo Academy Fund Attn: Office of Development 4900 Wichita Trail Tuition Assistance Many families have benefitted from tuition assistance at Flower Mound, TX 75022 Coram Deo Academy. The Impact: Students are continuing CDA’s Christian, Classical, and Collaborative education without being disrupted by a difficult financial season. ~ Missions Coram Deo Academy is supporting the Roever Foundation in their efforts to open a new K-12 school in Vietnam. Some of our CDA teachers will have the opportunity to serve as Thank You! lead teachers for 3-month terms at the school. The Impact: A generation of students in Vietnam will learn from godly teachers who speak God’s truth as CDA teaches students, trains teachers, shares curriculum, and provides classical expertise to our international sister school. This unique mission opportunity will plant the seeds of God’s Word in students across the world.
19 CDA’S STUDENT PUBLICATION FALL 2019
Student Focus
In this issue — Claire DruffnerPhoto by Kennedy Thornton A look at local missions, student accomplishments and more! Camp
Camp Blessing, a Christian camp in Brenham, ver the past several summers, many CDA TX, allows children and young adults with special students have served at needs to enjoy the camp experience. According to Camp Blessing for one Blessing or more weeks. This past summer, Laura Elder, ministry director at Camp Blessing, sixty-fourO CDA students volunteered. “The mission of Camp Blessing is to provide help CDA students were paired alongside a camper with special needs; the pair and hope to people of all abilities through Christ- experienced the joys and challenges of centered camp experiences.” The 1:1 camper- the week-long camp together. Laura Elder took notice of how CDA to-volunteer ratio provides a unique mission students stepped up to serve. “They opportunity for volunteers. are amazing, selfless servants. The staff gets super excited about CDA students coming because we never have to worry when it is their week to serve. They are responsible, love Jesus, and are not ashamed of the gospel. The way they choose to love campers is so beautiful; the way they love each other is really amazing. Their strong faith and work ethic is a witness as they are serving in the capacity of being the hands and feet of Christ.”
2 Maura Johnson, a CDA parent who lot of sleep. His camper was non-verbal must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling volunteered as a Cabin Parent, saw and in a wheelchair, but this CDA student to what is good.’ It’s amazing how God firsthand how CDA students answered persevered by loving unconditionally, chooses to reveal himself to us in the the call to service. “The biggest thing praying expectant prayers, and most unlikely ways sometimes!” witnessing how God answered these that stood out to me is how selflessly Faith Anna reflected on how God grew prayers in powerful ways. So many CDA they served not only their camper, but her during this time of sowing at Camp students picked amazing campers that those around them, like other campers, Blessing. “I spent a lot of time focused are challenging in the world’s eyes, but volunteers, and staff. They dove in head- on my value in God’s sight, and on how I they trusted God with the challenge of first, giving 100% even though this was can rejoice because of my worth in Him. taking care of physical, emotional, and new to so many of them. They were so I grew in my perspective of this. When spiritual needs. I witnessed over and willing to be used by God. Volunteering I realized this for myself, it helped me over again the love and grace poured out at Camp Blessing is so rewarding to make that truth more known to our over these awesome campers who come but also hard work that has its own campers, and that helps Camp Blessing back each summer asking that specific challenges. I think the way the students to grow as an organization.” grew the most was how they had to rely CDA volunteers be their buddy.” on God for so much. Camp Blessing is Faith Anna added, “There’s no faking it Faith Anna Burton, an 11th grader at the hard! Sometimes you do not get a full there; everyone is genuinely overflowing Flower Mound Campus, volunteered night’s sleep, enough to eat at dinner, or with the love that Jesus has for us! You’ll this past summer. “Something that you have to run all day after your camper be exhausted and never want to stop stood out to me about Camp Blessing because they like moving.” at the same time because it’s such a was how they view their campers as sweet picture of loving one another their teachers. We have so much to Laura Elder acknowledges the with all you’ve got and with Jesus as learn from these kids about joy and challenges, too. “I remember sitting at your strength. I think everyone should about how to love like Jesus. Through Cross Carry talking with a CDA student definitely go give it a shot.” who had struggled all week learning one of my beautiful campers, Eva, God how to love his camper well with not a put Romans 12:9 on my heart: ‘Love
3 3-Sport Champions CDA athletes compete in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) in a division which reflects the campus enrollment. For all-state recognition, coaches rate athletes within their division. Team success is vital to ensure that voting coaches have an individual on their radar when it is time to vote on all-state awards. CDA has had its fair share of all-state award recipients and, in fact, typically has multiple honorees each year. All-state recognition in three sports during a single academic year is extremely rare, yet two CDA athletes have achieved this exceptional feat.
Kacey Heitschmidt, current senior parents will tell you that maintaining at CDA’s Flower Mound Campus, a busy schedule was key to keeping me out of trouble, but I always enjoyed the earned all-state recognition in competition and the camaraderie. volleyball, basketball, and softball during the 2018-2019 school year. Caleb: One of the primary things I liked about my high school was the Caleb Johnson, CDA Flower Mound opportunity to play multiple sports. Class of 2018, received all-state Culture pushes today’s athlete to recognition in football, soccer, and specialize in one sport but in my track & field during the 2017-2018 opinion, it was far more beneficial to school year. Kacey and Caleb reflect take part in a variety of sports. Playing on their experiences on multiple multiple sports prevents burnout, and cross-training strengthens your athletic teams at CDA. athletic ability to improve skills in your “main” sport. What was your motivation to compete in multiple sports rather What are your perceived benefits than specializing in one? of playing multiple sports? Kacey: I tend not to make decisions Kacey: One of the benefits is the without first considering all my friendships I make on all three of my options. I think I decided to stick with sports teams. Every team is different. all three sports because I couldn’t Some are more intense than others and choose which one to drop. At a young some have a larger roster than others, age, in addition to sports, my mom but I think playing multiple sports helps enrolled me in dance. After several me excel in each sport. My volleyball studios and different genres, it became swings are stronger as a result of my apparent that I enjoyed playing sports softball pitching, and the physical over dancing. For years I played soccer, demand required in basketball fuels baseball, and basketball; I was on a my club volleyball training. Everything swim team in the summer, too. My connects in a great way.
4 Caleb: Each sport requires specific courage. Playing three sports and then What advice would you give training, but most skillsets translate spending each summer training for to others? football means you are playing sports across sports. For example, the Kacey: Playing good volleyball, basketball, year-round. These years of training have endurance and footwork of soccer and softball is fun. Most athletes would built me up to take on obstacles with transfer directly to football’s agility say that playing sports is supposed to courage and an optimistic attitude, to and explosion training. The biggest be fun, and I don’t disagree with them. endure and enjoy the process, and most benefit was the camaraderie. Playing However, I would also add that playing importantly to do everything for the all three sports allowed me to establish sports is most enjoyable when you have glory of God. friendships with people from other a team that is so tightly knit that it feels sports and create strong relationships like a family. At CDA, playing as a team, with a larger network of coaches. What keys to success can you share? encouraging one another, and most importantly—glorifying the One who How has your athletic training Kacey: To achieve your best in everything gave us our talents, is really the only shaped your character, attitude, you do, you must want to be a part of thing that matters. and life? something greater than yourself. I Caleb: First of all, I would say that you Kacey: Athletic training is a big part of my could not have been my best without my can’t do anything alone. Without first everyday life. During the school year, I teammates encouraging me. Without seeking the Lord’s guidance and asking don’t have a day off. I’m either going my catcher in softball, I could not throw Him for strength, I know I would have to practice, a game, or a tournament. strikes. Without my setter in volleyball, never been successful or achieved my However, I am convinced that this busy I would not have many kills. The small goals. “Whatever you do, work at it schedule has helped me in school. I school dynamic at CDA means that I with all your heart, as working for the have to be organized, plan ahead, and have always been on teams with older Lord, and not for men,” (NIV, Col. 3:23). stay focused. My schedule requires that girls who constantly pushed me to reach Humble yourselves before Christ, serve I consistently plan each day so that I my full potential. those around you, be respectful to your can achieve success in school as well as Caleb: I don’t know if I am the best person coaches, and outwork everyone around sports. to give special keys to success, but I guess you with a humble heart. Caleb: I have learned and applied so many I would say, don’t let anyone outwork lessons of self-control, self-discipline, you. Do you want to be great? Put in the time management, leadership, work. Do you want to be successful? Put teamwork, humility, service, and in the work, plain and simple.
5 Students view a late impressionist painting by Claude Monet on a field trip to the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth
FineArts The top right: Advanced art students Kayli Richard and Stephanie Philip work on portrait drawing skills
middle right: Mrs. Kendall reviewing Oceana art for Art History in the Kimbell Art Musem
bottom right: Mrs. Dwyer leads a discussion of Maya Art at the Dallas Museum of Art 6 The CDA Pep Band plays at all home football games.
top left: Sophomore Mickey Bell won All- award winners from tyler all-saints Star Crew for her stage-manager position speech tournament include (L to R): at the TAPPS One Act Play district Madi Pitts – 1st Place in competition. Congressional Debate Thomas Sorenson – Semifinalist in bottom left: Cast and crew of A Mad Domestic Extemp Speaking Breakfast, post-performance, at the Madeline Belknap – 1st Place in TAPPS One Act Play district competition. Informative Speaking, 3rd Place in Original Oratory
7 argo, North Dakota was the place to be during the last week of July! The 66th Annual National Junior Classical League (NJCL) National Convention brought approximately 1,200 students of Latin and Greek (including roughly 250 students from Texas) to the North Dakota State University campus for a week of competition,F learning, and fun. Classics students had the opportunity to engage in a myriad of competitions including Latinthe much-anticipated Certamen (quiz bowl), athletic competitions, team sports (Ludi and Olympika), colloquia workshops on various aspects of Greco-Roman culture, a national service project, graphic arts contests, a chess tournament, mock gladiator fights, and hundreds of other activities. Awards were given to the top ten finalists of each test or contest. Two Coram Deo Academy students, J. B. Lilley and Kiley Furber, attended this NJCL National Convention accompanied by Mrs. Mary Ligon and Mrs. Patty Gaskamp.
left: J. B. Lilley leading the Texas Delegation into the last General Assembly (Roman attire required) right: J. B. Lilley with 1st Place Essay Award
8 Excellence to Start off the Year
Mrs. Ligon acted as official scorekeeper for Competitive Certamen while Mrs. Gaskamp proctored tests, judged scrapbooks, and graded essays. Since its inception in 1936, the NJCL has worked to promote the study and appreciation of Greco-Roman language, literature, philosophy, and culture among secondary school students. Boasting a membership of over 40,000 high school students across 1,200 top: Kiley Furber with new friends from the chapters in 46 states, the NJCL continuously seeks to supplement classroom activities Florida delegation through educational ventures, publicity activities, and community service. bottom: J. B. Lilley and Kiley Furber at the end Both the Collin County and Flower Mound campuses have NJCL chapters. Membership of the first award ceremony. in the NJCL is open to any student taking Latin or Greek and offers opportunities throughout the year to participate in national tests which are administered at CDA, attend regional, state, and/or national competitions, and meet together occasionally with others from our school for fun and learning.
Representing the Coram Deo Representing the Coram Deo Academy Logic School and the Academy Rhetoric School and State of Texas, Kiley Furber the State of Texas, J.B. Lilley entered nineteen contests and entered twenty contests and placed in six. placed in eleven. Open Certamen (Novice Division) 2nd Place English Essay (9th Grade) 1st Place English Oratory 5th Place Acrylic Painting 7-9 (Olympus) 2nd Place Latin Sight Reading I 6th Place Open Certamen Black Pencil 7-9 (Medusa) 8th Place (Intermediate Division) 3rd Place Latin Literature I 9th Place Classical Art II 5th Place Hellenic History I 10th Place Greek Life and Literature II 5th Place Latin Reading Comprehension II 7th Place Latin Literature II 8th Place Academic Heptathlon II 9th Place These students did a remarkable Latin Sight Reading II 10th Place job and represented both our Mythology II 10th Place school and our state well. Roman History II 10th Place
9 FIFTH GRADERS EXPLORE A field trip to Sky Ranch Texas History in East Texas brings history to life for our ON ANNUAL TRIP TO 5th graders each spring. his tradition coincides with a fourth quarter unit on Texas THistory and gives CDA students SKY RANCH the opportunity to experience history through hands-on activities. Students and parents from all three campuses are invited to travel to the beautiful town of Van. Exploring and learning in the great outdoors brings history to life. Our 5th grade wranglers are treated to Texas history and ranch activities from the 1800s. Camp guides, dressed in period costumes, tell the histories of famous Texans. Guides take students to different stations throughout the day. These stations begin with a story straight from the history books and culminate in an activity for students to enjoy. Meandering along trails in the East Texas wilderness, our first stop is a
10 battleground. Perched on some long logs, Jim Bowie tells us we children’s games. Laughter fills the air as they try their hand have a battle at hand so we must plan where our troops should at marbles, the hoop and stick game, and cup and ball. These be stationed. Looking out from atop a small hill, we observe our games make us realize that sometimes the simple items are land and discuss where to place our men for an encounter with the most fun! Santa Anna’s forces. Students strategize their battle positions After a lunch of yummy vittles, our 5th graders head out in by plotting troops on paper and collaborating with their group covered wagons to the camp barnyard. There are goats and colts to ensure all are synchronized. to pet as well as a friendly, extra-large pig to visit. Students At our second stop, we meet up with Susannah Dickinson who check to see if any eggs were laid in the hen house and meet teaches students how to shoot slingshots with corn kernels. It a very proud rooster. The group may get a little wet hauling takes a few tries, but they do get the hang of it. Parents even water from a hand-pump well to the freshly tilled garden of get to try their hand at shooting which usually results in some fruits and vegetables, just as you would on a farm in the 1800s. healthy competition! The day ends with students bravely mounting their horses We continue to traipse our way through trails and on bridges and receiving a quick lesson from their guide on how to start, over scenic ponds to the next stop, roping! Our fifth graders stop, and steer their beautiful steeds. Following the lead horse greatly enjoy learning how to rope. Davy Crockett appears to on a short trail ride, the children enjoy views of the gorgeous help us learn how to properly hold, maneuver, and throw the countryside. lasso around the roping dummy. CDA students love learning about Meeting back up with Susannah Dickinson, we go to a nearby covered wagon, which is outfitted with wares such as fruits, the great state of Texas! Our 5th grain, and wagon parts. Susannah gives us tips beforehand, graders have gone to Sky Ranch for letting everyone know that it will be a hard journey. Weight matters on a wagon pulled by animals! Each student is given the past four years, and the tradition an amount of money listed on an account sheet and asked to continues in March 2020. Yippee aye plan a wagon trip across the western frontier. We then discuss what we decided to buy and why. oh ki yay! A favorite Texas history activity (although the students don’t even know it until they get there) is playing 19th century
11 Photo by Kennedy Thornton Claire Druffner
“Since coming to Coram Deo, I have participated in two incredible summer camps, the Heifetz International Institute and Meadowmount School of Music. At both, I met incredible teachers and was really motivated by my inspiring peers who taught me so much. I also have played in two side-by-side concerts with my youth orchestra (GDYO) and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Freshman year, I played my favorite piece, the first movement of “Cello Concerto in B minor, opus 104” by Antonín Dvořák, with the Houston Civic Symphony. I had the time of my life! An especially gratifying moment happened last year, when I was able to give a full-length recital at a nearby church. CDA was very supportive. I remember walking out of class one day and seeing my poster with the recital information on it in the hallway - it was a really nice surprise and a testament to CDA’s supportive community!”
12 cover story
f you observe Claire Druffner, a Coram Deo Academy Claire values her friendships and the character of her fellow Collin County 11th grader, you see a hardworking, joyful students. The House System (which places Rhetoric School student who gets along well with others. Her teachers students in one of four “houses”) has provided opportunities and peers describe her as a kind person, supportive of to be involved, connect with others, and express her creativity. herI classmates, and a joyful learner. Many people may not School has also provided a setting that encourages growth realize, however, that outside the walls of CDA, Claire’s life in her faith, and a place where she can practice living out has a special focus: she is a gifted musician with aspirations that faith. “I have learned a lot about my Christian faith; the of becoming a professional cellist. Her résumé includes some interdenominational setting of CDA has allowed me to learn very impressive accomplishments. about the diversity of belief within the body of Christ. There Claire has performed with the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra have also been many instances where I have seen students and and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. During her freshman teachers act out servant-leadership in great and small ways. year at CDA, she had the time of This has inspired me to look for her life performing her favorite big and little ways to serve on a piece, the first movement of the daily basis.” In reference to her “Cello Concerto in B minor, opus “I have not been distracted from faith and these relationships, 104” by Antonín Dvořák, with the she shares, “having theological Houston Civic Sympony. my music by school, but rather conversations with my friends about life and God in an The cellist has participated in two atmosphere of like-minded prestigious intensive summer informed in my music by school.” people is always refreshing and camps, the Heifetz International inspiring.” Institute in Staunton, Virginia, and the Meadowmount School of Preparing for life after school, Music in upstate New York. The alumni from these camps are Claire looks forward to the day when she can professionally among the very best musicians in the world. give concerts and teach music; she aspires to “build community through music.” From her experience at CDA as both a student However, this journey has not been an easy one. Claire faces the and a musician, Claire shares her enjoyment as a student while challenge of managing a rigorous academic schedule in addition not compromising her commitment to her music, “I have not to an intense practice schedule. Perfecting her technique on the been distracted from my music by school, but rather informed cello, fine tuning her musicianship, and mastering an extensive in my music by school.” repertoire require four hours of practice each day. Additionally, she makes weekly trips to Houston for private lessons with The mission of CDA is to train ethical servant-leaders and wise the head of the Cello Department at Rice University. Although thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God. Students CDA does not currently offer a strings program, Claire chose such as Claire embody this mission through a joy and a zeal for our school because of the flexible schedule that the University- life and learning that is contagious. Pursuing truth, goodness, Model® affords. and beauty is the foundation and focus of classical education. By design, CDA’s collaborative model affords Claire a flexible Despite the extensive demands on her time, Claire has schedule; and she has maximized its framework in order to maintained an outstanding academic record, finishing summa flourish as a student, peer, and musician. Claire is committed cum laude in 9th and 10th grades. Beyond academics and music, to her academic endeavors and passionately pursues her love she treasures other aspects of her life at CDA. She participates of music all for the glory of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. in the Speech & Debate elective and contributes greatly by being an active participant in class debates. She demonostrates leadership ability in helping younger students research and prepare their debate cases.
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