For Catholic homeschool families seeking a blend of classical education and traditional faith, the Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) and Mother of Divine Grace School (MODG) stand out as compelling options. Both promise a Catholic curriculum rooted in the Church’s intellectual heritage, but their approaches diverge in philosophy, execution, and practicalities. To guide your decision, we’ve conducted an exhaustive comparison using 11 rigorous criteria: (1) teaching all seven classical liberal arts (grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, music, astronomy), (2) offering classical Latin and Greek with grammar and real reading, (3) providing Aristotelian and Scholastic philosophy, (4) delivering traditional Catholic theology (Scripture, Doctors, Catechism), (5) having active Catholic directors and Church fidelity, (6) accreditation by a reputable agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, (7) direction by experienced Christian classicists, (8) affordability including enrollment and books (under $1,000/year where possible), (9) excellent reviews from experienced families, (10) detailed grade-level study plans, and (11) international availability. This analysis, based on data as of March 2025, explores how CLAA and MODG measure up, helping you choose the best fit for your family.
Overview: Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA)
The Classical Liberal Arts Academy, founded by William C. Michael and led by Lay Dominicans, aims to resurrect the medieval Catholic education of saints like Augustine and Aquinas. Delivered entirely online, CLAA offers over 100 courses emphasizing the seven liberal arts, classical languages, and Catholic wisdom. Marketed as affordable and rigorous, it serves families worldwide with a mission to prioritize classical studies over modern K-12 norms. Does its bold vision hold up across all criteria?
Overview: Mother of Divine Grace School (MODG)
Mother of Divine Grace School, established by Laura Berquist in 1995, offers a Catholic classical approach to distance learning, serving over 6,300 students. Based in Ojai, California, MODG combines home-study with optional enrollment, providing personalized syllabi rooted in the trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric). It balances classical ideals with practical support, appealing to families seeking structure and flexibility. How does it compare to CLAA’s purist stance?
Criterion 1: Teaching the Seven Classical Liberal Arts
The first criterion—teaching all seven classical liberal arts—highlights a fundamental difference. CLAA earns a definitive “Yes.” It explicitly offers courses in grammar, logic, and rhetoric (trivium) and arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy (quadrivium), mirroring the medieval Catholic curriculum. From Elementary Grammar to Astronomy, CLAA ensures students engage with each art systematically, aiming for a holistic intellectual formation true to historical standards.
MODG, however, scores a “No.” It fully embraces the trivium—grammar in early grades, logic in middle years, and rhetoric in high school—but its quadrivium coverage is incomplete. Arithmetic and geometry appear via math texts (e.g., Saxon), and science includes some astronomy (e.g., The Stars by H.A. Rey), but music is not a formal art course, and astronomy lacks depth as a standalone study. MODG’s classical approach prioritizes language arts over the full quadrivium, aligning with a modern adaptation rather than the complete medieval model. For families insisting on all seven arts, CLAA takes the lead.
Criterion 2: Classical Latin and Greek Courses
Language instruction further distinguishes the two. CLAA earns a “Yes,” offering classical Latin and Greek courses that teach grammar and real reading of texts like Cicero, Virgil, and Homer. Its Latin I and Greek I courses focus on mastery of classical forms, preparing students for primary sources—a cornerstone of authentic classical education. This dual-language commitment reflects the training of historical Catholic scholars.
MODG also scores a “Yes.” It provides classical Latin with grammar and real reading, using texts like Wheelock’s Latin and progressing to authors like Caesar in high school. Greek is offered in upper grades with a similar focus, though less emphasized than Latin. Both programs excel here, ensuring students engage with classical languages authentically. The edge may tilt to CLAA for its equal weighting of Greek, but MODG’s Latin depth is equally impressive.
Criterion 3: Aristotelian and Scholastic Philosophy
Philosophy reveals nuanced strengths. CLAA earns a “Yes,” offering dedicated courses in Aristotelian and Scholastic philosophy, such as Aristotle’s Organon and Aquinas’s Summa Theologica. These focus on logic, metaphysics, and ethics, immersing students in primary texts rather than surveys, aligning with the Catholic intellectual tradition’s emphasis on reason and faith.
MODG also scores a “Yes.” It integrates Scholastic philosophy in high school, using Aquinas’s works and texts like Philosophy of Nature by Yves Simon. While not as standalone as CLAA’s offerings, MODG’s philosophy is woven into its classical framework, ensuring students encounter Aristotelian and Thomistic thought. Both programs succeed here, though CLAA’s broader course selection gives it a slight advantage in depth.
Criterion 4: Traditional Catholic Theology
Theology is a strength for both, earning each a “Yes.” CLAA embeds traditional Catholic theology across its curriculum, with specific courses like Baltimore Catechism, Sacred Scripture, and Aquinas’s Summa. This ensures a deep engagement with Scripture, Doctors of the Church, and the Catechism, fostering a robust faith formation integrated with classical studies.
MODG matches this with a theology program spanning K-12. From St. Joseph’s Baltimore Catechism in early grades to Understanding the Scriptures by Scott Hahn in high school, it draws on Scripture, saints, and Church teachings. Daily syllabi reinforce Catholic doctrine, making faith a cornerstone. Both excel, though CLAA’s theology aligns with its classical focus, while MODG’s integrates with a broader curriculum.
Criterion 5: Catholic Directors and Church Fidelity
Both programs score a “Yes” here, reflecting their Catholic roots. CLAA’s Lay Dominican directors are active Catholics, and its curriculum upholds Church faith and morals without compromise. Every course aims to glorify God, aligning with traditional Catholic values.
MODG, founded by Laura Berquist—a devout Catholic—also demonstrates full fidelity. Its materials, vetted by Catholic educators, emphasize Church teachings, with prayers and saint studies woven into daily lessons. Neither strays into secularism, making this a tie for families prioritizing orthodoxy.
Criterion 6: Accreditation by a Reputable Agency
Accreditation marks a practical distinction. CLAA earns a “Yes,” holding Cognia accreditation with a 2024 Index of Educational Quality score of 320—above the average of 278-283. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and respected globally, this ensures CLAA diplomas are credible for college admissions.
MODG also scores a “Yes,” accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), another Department of Education-recognized agency. Serving over 6,300 students, MODG’s accreditation is equally reputable, with transcripts accepted worldwide. Both offer accredited paths, leveling the field for families needing formal recognition.
Criterion 7: Direction by Experienced Christian Classicists
Leadership expertise favors CLAA with a “Yes.” Directed by William C. Michael and other classicists with over 25 years of experience in classical studies, CLAA’s leadership ensures an authentic classical vision. Michael’s background in Latin, Greek, and philosophy shapes a curriculum true to historical standards.
MODG scores a “Partial.” Laura Berquist, an experienced Catholic educator and author of Designing Your Own Classical Curriculum, brings deep knowledge of classical methods. However, her expertise leans toward curriculum design and homeschooling, not necessarily formal classical studies as a classicist. MODG’s staff includes qualified teachers, but classicist credentials aren’t emphasized. CLAA’s specialized leadership edges out here.
Criterion 8: Affordability for Christian Families
Affordability—including enrollment, fees, and books—shows CLAA as more budget-friendly. CLAA earns a “Yes,” with premium access at $300/year and minimal books ($50-$100/year due to online delivery), totaling $350-$400. Diploma tracks cost $700-$900 plus books, reaching $750-$1,000—still within reach. This reflects CLAA’s mission to serve all families.
MODG scores a “Moderate.” Tuition ranges from $200-$700/year depending on grade and services (e.g., $200 for basic syllabi, $700 for full enrollment with grading), with books adding $200-$300/year, totaling $400-$1,000. While affordable at the lower end, full enrollment pushes it to the threshold’s edge. CLAA’s consistent pricing wins for cost-conscious families.
Criterion 9: Excellent Reviews from Experienced Families
Both earn a “Yes,” with distinct praise. CLAA families with extensive experience laud its support, classical rigor, and transformative impact. Parents highlight personal feedback and faith integration, noting its depth as a game-changer for intellectual and spiritual growth.
MODG’s reviews from long-term users emphasize its faith, structure, and flexibility. Families appreciate the consultant support and gentle approach, with comments like “MODG made homeschooling manageable” reflecting satisfaction. CLAA appeals to classical purists, while MODG suits those valuing guidance and adaptability.
Criterion 10: Detailed Grade-Level Study Plans
Both score a “Yes,” tailored to their styles. CLAA provides detailed, task-level plans for all grades, guiding parents through each liberal art and subject. Its online platform offers step-by-step instructions, ensuring clarity for self-directed homeschoolers.
MODG also delivers detailed, task-level syllabi, with fully-scripted daily lessons for K-12. Parents receive customized plans—e.g., “Week 1, Day 1: Math, Lesson 1”—supported by consultants. CLAA’s plans suit classical autonomy, while MODG’s offer structured hand-holding. It’s a tie, with preference depending on parental involvement.
Criterion 11: International Availability
Both earn a “Yes,” with no location barriers. CLAA’s fully online model ensures global access—students worldwide can enroll and study instantly. Its digital delivery eliminates shipping issues, making it seamless for international families.
MODG offers online classes and home-study options, shipping materials globally and providing digital resources. Families from various countries report smooth use, with MODG’s support adapting to international needs. Both are equally accessible, leveling this criterion.
Head-to-Head: Strengths and Weaknesses
CLAA’s Strengths: CLAA excels in classical purity. Teaching all seven liberal arts, offering Latin and Greek, and providing deep philosophy at $350-$1,000 make it a standout. Its leadership by experienced classicists and online flexibility suit families seeking an authentic, medieval Catholic education. The affordability and global reach enhance its appeal for self-directed learners prioritizing rigor.
CLAA’s Weaknesses: The online-only format may challenge families without reliable internet or those preferring physical materials. Its intensity—requiring significant parental oversight for younger students—might daunt novices. While accredited, its niche focus may require explanation to some colleges.
MODG’s Strengths: MODG shines in structure and support. Its detailed syllabi, consultant guidance, and accredited options at $400-$1,000 appeal to families needing a manageable, faith-driven curriculum. The gentle approach for younger grades and flexibility for customization make it practical for busy or eclectic homeschoolers.
MODG’s Weaknesses: The incomplete quadrivium and higher costs for full enrollment ($1,000) limit its classical and affordability claims. Its reliance on parental execution or additional fees for teacher support may burden some families. It’s less purist than CLAA, blending classical with modern elements.
Which Program Wins?
For classical liberal arts homeschooling, CLAA is the victor. Meeting 11/11 criteria, it delivers the full seven arts, dual languages, and Scholastic philosophy at a lower cost ($350-$1,000). Its online model and classicist leadership embody the Catholic intellectual tradition, ideal for purists. Visit https://classicalliberalarts.com/ to explore.
For a traditional Catholic education with support, MODG prevails in practicality. Scoring 9/11 fully (partial on 2), it offers a faith-rich curriculum with structure and flexibility, though it sacrifices full arts coverage and costs more at the high end ($400-$1,000). Check it out at https://www.motherofdivinegrace.org/. It’s perfect for families needing guidance and a balanced approach.
Final Thoughts: Your Family’s Decision
Choosing between CLAA and MODG depends on your goals. If you seek an uncompromising classical education with all seven arts and affordability, CLAA’s $350-$1,000 and global access are unmatched. If you prioritize a structured, supportive Catholic curriculum with strong theology, MODG’s $400-$1,000 and personalized plans shine. Both uphold Church faith, but CLAA leads in classical rigor, while MODG excels in practicality. Verify details on their websites, as costs may shift post-March 2025, and select the path aligning with your family’s vision.
I hope you find this comparison helpful.
Mr. William C. Michael, O.P.
Headmaster
Classical Liberal Arts Academy
