Classical Liberal Arts Academy Blog

This page provides access to all public articles published by the Classical Liberal Arts Academy.

Recent Posts

  • CLAA Parent Meeting – 09/16/2026
    by William C. Michael
    CLAA Weekly Parent Meeting — September 16, 2026 The third parent meeting of the fall term at the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. Mr. William C. Michael introduces the new literature program and the scholastic logic courses, then answers parents’ questions for two hours. Topics discussed: Learn more at classicalliberalarts.com Parent meetings are held Wednesday evenings. … Continue
  • The Legal and Historical Case for Apostolic Succession: Defending the Unbroken Chain
    by William C. Michael
    One of the most frequent objections raised by Protestant critics against the Catholic Church concerns the doctrine of apostolic succession. The argument usually unfolds like this: “Because the Catholic Church cannot produce a continuous, name-by-name paper trail documenting every single episcopal ordination from the first century to the present day, the claim to an unbroken … Continue
  • CLAA Parent Meeting (09/09/2026)
    by William C. Michael
    CLAA Weekly Parent Meeting — September 9, 2026 Mr. William C. Michael of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy discusses the rapid expansion of the curriculum and answers parents’ questions on homeschooling in their own circumstances. Topics discussed: Parent meetings are held Wednesday evenings. Enrolled families are welcome to attend and bring questions.
  • How Schools Have Destroyed Human Learning
    by William C. Michael
    Speaker: William C. Michael, Headmaster, Classical Liberal Arts Academy Recorded: Thursday, September 3, 2026 Source: RODECaster recording 118, Stereo Mix.wav (1:15:11) The question: why does study stop when school stops? Today is Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, and I’m William Michael. I’m the headmaster of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. I’d like to talk today about … Continue
  • Weekly Parent Meeting: September 02, 2026
    by William C. Michael
    The first meeting of the fall term at the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. Mr. William C. Michael and Mrs. Dania Michael open the school year and answer parents’ questions on getting back to studies. Topics discussed: Recent article mentioned: “The Beginning of Counterfeit Classical Education” — a translation of a Latin treatise on education from … Continue
  • Libraries for Lifelong Research
    by William C. Michael
    Below is an alphabetized list of the statewide virtual library networks and digital resource portals across all 50 states, along with links to their main platforms. Note: Access requirements vary. Many use automatic IP-geolocation to give instant access to state residents, while others require authenticating with a local public library card. Mr. William C. Michael, … Continue
  • The Beginning of Counterfeit Classical Education (Vergerio)
    by William C. Michael
    Pier Paolo Vergerio (1370–1444) of Capodistria was a canon lawyer, secretary to Popes Innocent VII and Gregory XII, a participant in the Council of Constance, and afterward secretary to the Emperor Sigismund. He studied at Padua, Florence and Bologna, and taught logic at Padua for sixteen years. About the year 1402 he wrote De ingenuis … Continue
  • The Purpose and Plan of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy
    by William C. Michael
    This article states what the Classical Liberal Arts Academy teaches, why we teach it, and how it may be studied by a man of any age or circumstances. It is written for parents considering our program, for students already enrolled, and for anyone who has noticed that what is now called classical education bears little … Continue
  • Regina Ecclesia: A Twelfth-Century Portrait of the Church
    by William C. Michael
    An Illustration from the Hortus Deliciarum of Herrad of Hohenburg The Manuscript and Its Author The image before us comes from the Hortus Deliciarum, the “Garden of Delights,” an illustrated encyclopedia compiled between about 1167 and 1185 by Herrad of Landsberg, abbess of the canonesses of Hohenburg Abbey in Alsace, on the mountain now known … Continue
  • “Comparison is the Thief of Joy”: Why Catholic Parents are Unhappy
    by William C. Michael
    Comparison Is the Thief of Joy I have been working in education full time for twenty-six years now. In the Classical Liberal Arts Academy my wife provides daily support for homeschooling families and spends a great deal of time on the telephone with homeschooling mothers. Through the years we have worked with hundreds, if not … Continue
  • Why Modern Schools are Afraid of Artificial Intelligence
    by William C. Michael
    This morning I was reading an opinion article in the Harvard Crimson proposing a policy for the use of artificial intelligence in school districts. The writer warned that the technology is developing very quickly, and that if we do not get out in front of it and limit it, it is going to get out … Continue
  • Catholic Motherhood and the Spiritual Life: Your Family Is Not an Interruption
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    Many Catholic mothers long for quiet. We long for uninterrupted prayer, spiritual reading, silence, retreats, and time before the Blessed Sacrament. These desires can be very good. A mother who desires God should be grateful for that desire and cultivate it carefully. Yet a subtle temptation can accompany it. We can begin dividing life into … Continue
  • Intellectual Efficiency: Why Students Must Learn to Study from Text Sources
    by William C. Michael
    This morning I was talking with my wife, and I said, “We need to do a podcast on the importance of text-based study.” We had been discussing it for a little while when an email came in from a prospective parent asking whether the Classical Liberal Arts Academy offers live classes or an online school. … Continue
  • Thinking about Education in the A.I. Age
    by William C. Michael
    The role of artificial intelligence in education is a controversial subject today. Unfortunately, much of what is said in Christian circles is ignorant and irresponsible. Many have already decided that A.I. bad before they’ve even learned what it is or how it works. This negative opposition culture needs to be avoided or Christian children will … Continue
  • Join Us for CLAA Parent Meetings
    by William C. Michael
    Dear friends, All parents are invited to join Mrs. Michael and I for weekly parent meetings beginning on September 2, 2026. Weekly meetings will be held each Wednesday at 9:00pm EST on Zoom. We will begin at the scheduled time and continue until discussions come to an end. This year, meetings will be recorded and … Continue
  • ABANDONING “HOMESCHOOL” CULTURE FOR REAL CLASSICAL CATHOLIC STUDY
    by William C. Michael
    William C. Michael discusses the evolution of homeschooling from the late 90s to the early 2000s, highlighting the shift from traditional school-based education to home-based learning facilitated by technological advancements. He criticizes the homeschool culture for its rejection of modern technology and its focus on outdated methods. Michael advocates for a classical liberal arts education integrated into family life, emphasizing the importance of authentic Catholic community and personal study. He argues that true Catholic education should be grounded in the local parish and family culture, rather than adopting the artificial homeschool culture.
  • Music in the Quadrivium: What Classical Music Education Actually Is
    by William C. Michael
    This week I received an email from a prospective father with some questions about the quadrivium and how music is to be studied. I would like to take the question up here, because it requires some explaining and clarification, and I do not think I would do it justice in an email reply. I also … Continue
  • Understanding the Renaissance
    by William C. Michael
    In the Classical Liberal Arts Academy, we need to understand real classical Catholic culture (Aristotle, Aquinas) and distinguish it from ancient pagan culture and modern culture. The fake classical education movement doesn’t understand this distinction and is restoring a culture that is neither truly classical nor Catholic. This video by Dr. Adam Walker (Harvard) helps … Continue
  • How Should Parents Prepare to Give their Children a Classical Catholic Education?
    by William C. Michael
    In this podcast episode, Mr. William C. Michael answers answers the question of how parents should prepare to give their children a classical Catholic education.
  • The Latin Language and Its History
    by William C. Michael
    In this lesson you will learn where the Latin language came from, who used it, and why it is still studied today. Latin began as the speech of one small people. In the middle of Italy there is a plain called Latium, and the people who lived there were called the Latins. Their language was … Continue
  • Protected: Grammar Exercises in Jesuits Schools
    by William C. Michael
    This content is password protected.
  • Can We Prove that God Exists?
    by William C. Michael
    As we must speak with unbelievers in modern secular society, we must know whether the existence of God can be proven and what the arguments are by which this can be done. In the video below, a Dominican friar provides a brief explanation of the subject. Below the video the original teaching of the Dominican … Continue
  • Trading the Catholic Intellectual Inheritance For Money
    by Mr. Jared Haselbarth, O.P.
    When the modern State’s pedagogical reformers approach Catholics and offer them a better vineyard or a sum of money in exchange for the use of our field – not to continue producing long tested, deeply rooted Catholic educational outcomes but for the State’s own immediate needs – what is our response? 
  • Whether Public Charter Schools Are Fit for Catholic Communities Seeking Classical Education
    by Mr. Jared Haselbarth, O.P.
    Objection 1. It seems that public charter schools are a good and prudent choice for Catholic communities in 2026. For in this age of high taxation and burdensome private tuitions, such schools grant families from a range of economic backgrounds access to rigorous, smaller-scale learning environments that often emphasize classical methods and virtue formation. Recent … Continue
  • Making Good Use of the Summer Months
    by William C. Michael
    Dear friends,  The Spring term in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy ends on Friday, June 26th — our 18th year of study. As we move towards the end of the term and the end of the school year for some, I’d like to provide some helpful information heading into the summer.  Time for Standardized Testing Parents … Continue
  • Annual Homeschool Review for CLAA Parents
    by William C. Michael
    Based on “Complete Guide for Study in the CLAA” View in Google Docs Part I: The Purpose and Priority of Studies Reflection Things to Do Part II: Habits of Study and Student Discipline Reflection Things to Do Part III: The Integrity of Classical Studies Reflection Things to Do Part IV: The Parent’s Role and Governance … Continue
  • The Fear of “Screen Time” in Online Education: A Reasonable Examination
    by William C. Michael
    One of the most common objections raised against online education today concerns what is commonly called “screen time.” Prospective parents often express concern that enrolling a child in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy will place him in front of a computer for dangerous or unhealthy lengths of time. While these concerns are understandable in a … Continue
  • Why CLAA Students Should Consider Majoring in Classics
    by William C. Michael
    Students are often faced with a decision: (a) choose a different major or (b) choose a different college. Most students choose a different college, and it is usually a college that is inferior to the one they first applied to. They imagine that earning the same degree from an inferior college will be better than … Continue
  • New Translation Work in Logic and the Philosophical Sciences
    by William C. Michael
    When most schools—even colleges—talk about “Logic” today, they are referring to school classes that study modern textbooks designed simply to provide a “Logic course” for those institutions. When we learn, however, that the Catholic Church was the source of the true teaching of the art of reasoning, we realize that there is much more to … Continue
  • Summer Studies in the CLAA
    by William C. Michael
    As we move through May and into June, most schools are preparing to close for the summer. Modern schools are only open 180 days—less than half the days of the year. One of the greatest advantages of homeschooling is that school remains open year-round. Still, some homeschool programs only serve public school standards and provide … Continue
  • St. Albert the Great, On the Nature of Logic, Chapter 1
    by William C. Michael
    Return to St. Albert the Great, Logic Prelection In this opening chapter on the nature of logic, St. Albert the Great introduces students to one of the most important foundations of all liberal learning: the right use of reason. Logic is not merely a school subject or an exercise in argument, but the art by … Continue
  • Why Do We Need to Study Porphyry’s Introduction?
    by William C. Michael
    In the opening sentence of Porphyry’s Introduction, we read: Since it is necessary, both to the doctrine of the Categories of Aristotle, and to the formation of definitions, and in short, to those things which pertain to division and demonstration, to know what Genus and Difference, Species, Peculiarity, and Accident are; and since also the … Continue
  • Understanding the Five Predicables in Porphyry’s Introduction (Isagoge)
    by William C. Michael
    This page provides a detailed explanation of the five predicables as taught in Porphyry’s Introduction. This work is also referred to by its Greek name, Isagoge. What are the Five Predicables? In his Introduction, Porphyry proposes five fundamental ways in which something may be predicated of a subject. These are called the five predicables: Genus, … Continue
  • Lecture on Aristotle’s Ethics – Book I, Chapter 06
    by William C. Michael
    Note: The following text is a direct transcription of the spoken lecture above. Welcome to the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. This lecture is intended for students enrolled in the Academy’s Philosophy 311, Classical Ethics course. If you’re not enrolled and would like to join us for self-paced studies, please visit classicalliberalarts.com. My name is William … Continue
  • She Shall Be Saved Through Motherhood: Taking Up the Work God Has Given You
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    The Work That Belongs to a Mother Many young mothers find themselves unsure of what to do when their children become disruptive in public. They feel torn between wanting to remain where they are and knowing that others may be distracted. These moments are not easy, and they can leave a mother feeling uncertain or … Continue
  • Choosing between Standard and Premium Tuition
    by William C. Michael
    Families who enroll in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy are offered two modes of participation in the course of study: Standard Tuition and Premium Tuition. Both provide access to the full CLAA curriculum, but they differ in the manner in which that curriculum is pursued. The distinction is not one of content, but of guidance. … Continue
  • Helping Women Love Their Husbands: Lessons from 28 Years of Marriage
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    Today marks twenty-eight years of marriage for my husband and me. When I look back over those years, I do not see a perfect story. Instead, I see a faithful one. I see a life built not on feelings, but on daily choices—choices to love, to forgive, and to remain. This is what I hope … Continue
  • Video Lectures Being Published
    by William C. Michael
    The Classical Liberal Arts Academy will be adding many video lectures prepared to support students in the study of the classical Catholic curriculum. These lectures are designed to explain the content of course lessons in a clear and orderly manner, so that students may not only complete their assignments, but also understand challenging concepts as … Continue
  • CLAA Curriclum Development System
    by William C. Michael
    A look behind the scenes at how work is getting done in the CLAA. The Classical Liberal Arts Academy is engaged in a work of uncommon scope and importance: the construction of a complete course of studies in the classical Catholic tradition. This is not a matter of assembling a few isolated courses, but of … Continue
  • The Absurdity of Modern Mathematics
    by William C. Michael
    Mathematicians argue that negative numbers exist because they can serve as square roots for positive quantities. A screenshot of the OpenStax Algebra textbook above (the most widely used textboook in the world) provides an example of this teaching. This is fed to kids in schools and they drink it in as normal. This idea, however, … Continue
  • Special Offers for Family, Annual Enrollment
    by William C. Michael
    As we enter enrollment season in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy, we are happy to continue to offer several special enrollment options. Discounted Family Plans If you are enrolling more than three students in the Academy, you may be able to save by enrolling under our Family plans instead of individual Student plans. Discounted Annual … Continue
  • The Greek Origin of Liberal Education
    by William C. Michael
    This article provides a helpful explanation of the development of the seven liberal arts, based on the chapter on that subject in Thomas Davidson’s Aristotle and Ancient Educational Ideals. The tradition of the seven liberal arts did not arise in ancient Greece as a fixed or formal system, but developed gradually from a more unified … Continue
  • Recommended: Davidson, “Aristotle: Ancient Educational Ideals”
    by William C. Michael
    Thomas Davidson’s “Aristotle and Ancient Educational Ideals” posits that education is the deliberate cultivation of the soul towards eudaimonia, or human flourishing, focusing on character development rather than just information acquisition. The text outlines a hierarchical curriculum, culminating in philosophical contemplation, that serves as a foundation for moral formation and a virtuous life within the … Continue
  • What is the Goal of a Classical Catholic Education?
    by William C. Michael
    Modern students and parents often ask what will come of an education in the classical liberal arts, philosophy, and theology. The question itself reveals a misunderstanding. It assumes that education is justified only by what follows it—by admission to a university, by the securing of employment, or by the increase of income. In this way … Continue
  • Classical Catholic Tutoring in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy
    by William C. Michael
    In every age, parents desire not merely that their children succeed in school, but that they be truly educated—that their minds be formed, their judgment strengthened, and their lives ordered toward what is good and true. Yet in our own time, education has been largely reduced to a system of mechanical exercises, standardized assessments, and … Continue
  • What is Classical Philosophy?
    by William C. Michael
    According to St. Thomas Aquinas, philosophy is nothing other than the work of human reason seeking to understand the order of things. This definition, though simple, opens before us the whole scope of classical learning. For wisdom, as St. Thomas explains, is the perfection of the intellectual faculty, and the mark of the wise man … Continue
  • When Should a Child Begin Latin Studies?
    by William C. Michael
    This is one of the most common questions asked by parents, and the answer depends less on the child’s age than on the level of support available to him. Parent/Tutor Support The proper time to begin Latin studies is determined largely by the support available to a student. A young child is quite capable of … Continue
  • Sophistry in Modern Astronomy
    by William C. Michael
    In this essay, I wish to challenge certain assumptions that are commonly taken for granted in modern explanations of planetary motion. Terms like “inertia” and “tangential velocity” are frequently invoked as if they were true causes, yet upon closer examination, they appear to function more as convenient descriptions than as genuine explanations. By examining the … Continue
  • The CLAA is More Scientific, Not Less, than Modern Schools
    by William C. Michael
    Modern science has been proven, over the past 400 years, to be incapable of accomplishing what the ancient philosophers explained it could never accomplish: providing a more accurate and certain knowledge of the world than philosophy. Plato explained this — and he wasn’t even smart enough to figure out the art of Reasoning. Aristotle also … Continue
  • True Social Life Flows from the Contemplative Life
    by William C. Michael
    The tension within modern Catholic culture regarding “socialization” is not merely a practical concern, but a deeper confusion about the nature and purpose of human life. Parents are urged to immerse their children in constant activity—teams, clubs, peer groups—under the assumption that this produces well-formed, socially competent individuals. Yet the Church continues to hold up … Continue
  • How to Teach Reading at Home Using the Gospel of John (Simple Step-by-Step Method)
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    A Simple and Practical Guide for Mothers Many mothers wonder how to teach reading at home in a simple and effective way. This is one of the most common concerns in homeschooling. Yet, reading can be taught simply, peacefully, and successfully—even with several children at once. The Classical Liberal Arts Academy’s English Reading Gospel of … Continue
  • Is College Worth It? The Real Purpose of Modern Higher Education
    by William C. Michael
    Questions concerning who should attend college, for what purpose, and by what means are of great importance, for many young adults are making decisions that require decades to recover from. It is necessary to begin by correcting a common and costly misunderstanding concerning the nature of modern higher education. Many today continue to speak of … Continue
  • What Is a True Catholic Education? A Guide for Parents
    by William C. Michael
    It is necessary for Catholic parents to consider carefully what they mean when they speak of education. In many conversations today, one hears confident references to methods, programs, and well-known educational figures, as though these were sufficient guides for forming children. Parents compare curricula, adopt labels, and align themselves with prevailing trends, yet rarely pause … Continue
  • We Need to Study Aristotle’s Politics
    by William C. Michael
    In most places today, civics education languishes in a culture of ignorance and irrational feeling. It presents political life as an arena in which men and women battle for the control of public resources. It makes no effort to establish a clear view of the nature of man or the true purpose of society. Students … Continue
  • Recommended: Debate on God and Morality (Douthat and Pinker)
    by William C. Michael
    In this debate, cognitive psychologist Steven Pinker and New York Times columnist Ross Douthat explore whether a secular society can truly sustain itself. For years, many intellectuals predicted that as religion declined, society would become calmer, more rational, and more scientific. Instead, modern politics often feels just as fervent—driven by new forms of moral conflict, … Continue
  • Example of a Philosophy Comprehension Assessment
    by William C. Michael
    In the Classical Liberal Arts Academy, we provide rigorous comprehension assessments that challenge students to thoroughly study lessons and demonstrate their understanding of important concepts. These assessments will be difficult for most students because they require careful study and thoughtful, well-written responses. Students may benefit from seeing a model for imitation. This morning, I completed … Continue
  • Starting Late: Restoring Order in the Home When Habits Have Already Gone Wrong
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    Many young mothers begin family life with good desires, but without firm principles. They love their husbands. They love their children. They want a peaceful Catholic home. They want reverence at Mass. They want ordered sleep, happy children, and time for prayer. Yet many find themselves, after a year or two, living in disorder. The … Continue
  • Don’t Be Presumptuous about “Family Planning”
    by William C. Michael
    Summary Young Catholic couples should not feel pressured to have large families by cultural or political messaging. Decisions about children must be made prudently and privately by husband and wife, based on their real circumstances, including health, finances, and social environment. Large families are not a requirement of Catholic teaching, and having many children should … Continue
  • Save 30-50% off on Verbum Academic Software
    by William C. Michael
    One tool I use daily for study and writing is Verbum, which is one of the largest digital libraries available for Catholic books. I’m happy to announce that Verbum has added the Classical Liberal Arts Academy to its list of recognized colleges, seminaries and universities, and offers 30-50% off on its academic software for enrolled … Continue
  • Man and Machine: Generic vs. Individual Superiority
    by William C. Michael
    In the present age of artificial intelligence, it has become common to assert that man is superior to machines. This claim is often made as though it were obvious, needing no defense. Yet when examined carefully, it becomes clear that such a statement is usually made in a generic and theoretical sense rather than in … Continue
  • How to Handle Private Beliefs in Public Life
    by William C. Michael
    Summary Living with strong convictions in a free and diverse society requires a clear distinction between private and public life. In private life, individuals may order their actions entirely according to their own beliefs. In public life, however, they must respect the equal rights and freedoms of others and cannot treat shared spaces as extensions … Continue
  • Physical Education for Classical Schools
    by William C. Michael
    Summary Modern education suffers from two extremes in physical training: on one side, sedentary and undisciplined children who are weak and unhealthy; on the other, overtrained athletes engaged in excessive, specialized sports that do not contribute to a well-lived life. Neither extreme is reasonable. Drawing on Aristotle, physical education must aim at a golden mean—a … Continue
  • Schools are Ready for Change
    by William C. Michael
    In my work in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy I receive contacts from schools that acknowledge their awareness that the current school model is not sustainable and that improvement is needed. They are ready for change but there is a problem: being educated in modern schools themselves, and having no idea where to look for … Continue
  • Holy Week in a Busy Home: Loving Christ in the Midst of Motherhood
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    When Holy Week Feels Out of Reach Holy Week has come, and the Church grows quiet. The readings grow heavy, and we are invited to walk with Christ in His Passion—to watch, to pray, and to remain with Him. The Church slows down and asks us to look closely at suffering, love, and sacrifice. Yet … Continue
  • The Bible and Classical Education
    by William C. Michael
    The relationship between the Bible, philosophy, and classical education is often misunderstood in modern discussions, especially among Christians. It is commonly assumed that the Bible replaces all other forms of knowledge, or that the world before Scripture was largely ignorant and in need of correction. From this assumption, it follows that children should be taught … Continue
  • Wednesday Parent Meetings
    by William C. Michael
    Dear Parents, Each Wednesday evening at 9:00 PM (EST), my wife and I host an open Zoom meeting for CLAA families. All parents—both prospective and currently enrolled—are warmly invited to attend. There is no cost to participate, though registration is required. The meeting room opens promptly at 9:00 PM. I begin with a brief update … Continue
  • The Methods of Investigation and the Formation of the Intellect: A Classical Approach to Education
    by William C. Michael
    Before any student can profit from the study of the arts and sciences, he must understand that knowledge does not fall from heaven, nor is it to be obtained by memorizing information put in front of us. All true learning depends upon a right order of inquiry, and the sciences themselves were originally established by … Continue
  • How to Make “Great Books” Education Great
    by William C. Michael
    Modern enthusiasm for “Great Books” programs rests on an assumption that deserves careful examination—namely, that it’s good for students to read all of history’s influential literature. It is suggested that by immersing students in the works of Homer, Plato, Shakespeare, Dickens, etc., they will learn to “think for thmselves” and become wise men and women. … Continue
  • Rethinking Socrates: The Danger of “Critical Thinking”
    by William C. Michael
    In modern circles, especially where we find people talking about classical education, Socrates is spoken of as if he were a martyr. He’s spoken of as a hero of Western civilization who is to be honored and imitated. And yet, if we think about the life of Socrates carefully and accurately, and think about what … Continue
  • Persevering in Lent: Faithfulness in Uncertain Days
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    When Life Feels Uncertain There are seasons in a mother’s life when everything feels uncertain. Plans shift, news comes that we did not expect, and the future feels unclear. Yet at the same time, the dishes remain, the lessons must be taught, meals must be made, and prayers must still be said. Lent often meets … Continue
  • The “Liberal Arts” Aren’t What They Used to Be
    by William C. Michael
    In the Oxford English Dictionary, we find the following definition: liberal arts (n.) – Originally: the seven subjects of the trivium (grammar, rhetoric, and logic) and quadrivium (arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy) considered collectively (now historical). In later use more generally: arts subjects as opposed to science and technology. The term “liberal arts” has not … Continue
  • Abelson, The Seven Liberal Arts
    by William C. Michael
    Paul Abelson’s The Seven Liberal Arts explains that the liberal arts were originally a fixed and ordered curriculum designed for the intellectual formation of free men, consisting of the Trivium and the Quadrivium as studied in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy today. Abelson shows that these arts were not a loose collection of subjects but … Continue
  • Why College Classics Programs are Dying (Republish)
    by William C. Michael
    It’s remarkable to look back at the curricula of colleges and universities, even as far back as the early 1900s, and observe the heavy emphasis on classical studies. A college education was synonymous with Greek and Latin studies, philosophy, theology, reasoning, and rhetoric. Education meant proficiency in classical studies. However, this began to change in … Continue
  • The Importance of Real Curriculum Work
    by William C. Michael
    What is commonly called “curriculum work” today is not curriculum work in the proper sense. It is simply the listing of topics to be studied, or the selection and arrangement of study materials. Textbooks, videos, and worksheets are gathered into grade level and subject containers, and this is called a “curriculum.” However, it lacks the … Continue
  • The Definition of “Classical Education”
    by William C. Michael
    One of the revealing problems in the “classical education movement” is that those involved in it cannot define the term “classical education” in a way that is to be expected from men and women with a classical education. It does not seem that the essence of “classical education” is actually known. It is simply a … Continue
  • What’s the Difference between Philosophy and Theology?
    by William C. Michael
    Yesterday, I posted a talk answering some questions on classical education—what is classical curriculum, and so on. You can see that talk published on March 20. In the midst of that talk, toward the end actually, I discussed a topic that I think is pretty important, and I even received some feedback on that part … Continue
  • Questions about Classical Education and the CLAA Curriculum
    by William C. Michael
    Last night, I received an email from a contact who had some questions about the Classical Liberal Arts Academy curriculum, and as I looked at the questions, I thought they might actually be questions that others would like answers to. So what I’m going to do in this talk today is answer those questions in … Continue
  • “Get Married and Have Babies!” A Warning against Modern “Pro-Family” Messaging
    by William C. Michael
    The Protestant Reformation has led many Catholics to believe that marriage and child-bearing is the chief end of the Christian life. A common political message today, presented from what is considered a “Christian” perspective urges Christians to “Get married and have babies!”. A romanticized message of family life is promoted which denies the consequences of … Continue
  • The Key to Learning and Debate in Confusing Times
    by William C. Michael
    Yesterday, I received a message from a Catholic mother who models a virtue needed to learn about and enjoy an authentic classical Catholic education. This virtue is valuable in all areas of life, especially when matters are confusing and immediate reactions would be ignorant and emotional. I wanted to share this letter as an example … Continue
  • The Discernment of Spirits in the Annunciation
    by Mrs. Grace Peletier, OP
    The Catholic Church has always taught that the faithful must “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) before accepting any claim of divine origin. This principle is vividly illustrated in the Gospel of Luke, where the Blessed Virgin Mary both questions the angel Gabriel at the Annunciation and then travels to confirm Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Both actions … Continue
  • CLAA Classical School Improvement Program
    by William C. Michael
    In recent decades, interest in classical education has grown rapidly. Many schools now describe themselves as classical academies or classical learning programs, and parents increasingly seek education rooted in the intellectual traditions of Western civilization. Yet the meaning of the term classical education is often unclear. Schools that identify as classical may offer very different … Continue
  • The Classical School Spectrum: Understanding the Degrees of Classical Education
    by William C. Michael
    In recent years the term classical school has become increasingly common in educational discussions. Many schools now identify themselves as classical academies or classical learning programs. Yet the meaning of the term is often unclear. Some schools adopt the label because they teach Latin. Others emphasize great books or Western history. Some include courses in … Continue
  • The CLAA Classical–STEM Spectrum: A Framework for Evaluating School Curricula in the 21st Century
    by William C. Michael
    In recent years, the language of education has become increasingly confused. Many schools now describe themselves as “classical schools,” yet the meaning of the term varies widely. Some institutions apply the label because they teach Latin. Others emphasize great books or Western history. Some introduce courses in logic or rhetoric while otherwise retaining a modern … Continue
  • Bishop Barron on “The Story of America”
    by William C. Michael
    The video above was published by the White House on March 13, 2026. In it, Bishop Barron explains the philosophical principles on which American society was established. It is strongly recommended for all Academy students. God bless your studies,Mr. William C. Michael, O.P.HeadmasterClassical Liberal Arts Academy
  • Bachelor in Classical Christian Studies (BCCS) at the Classical Liberal Arts Academy
    by William C. Michael
    The Classical Liberal Arts Academy is pleased to announce the development of a new degree program: the Bachelor in Classical Christian Studies (BCCS). This program represents the culmination of many years of research and curriculum development at the CLAA and provides a structured course of study in the classical liberal arts rooted in the Catholic … Continue
  • Understanding the Error of Protestantism
    by William C. Michael
    The error of Protestantism can be understood very easily. We simply need to understand the context of the New Testament writings. The New Testament was written before 70 AD, when the Jewish temple was still in full operation. The temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. The Catholic Church was founded in 33 … Continue
  • An Honest Correction Regarding Catholic Education
    by William C. Michael
    As a father of 10 children, one lesson that I learned early in my parenting experience was that it’s very easy to have a peaceful, happy family. It’s very easy to have a happy wife. It’s very easy to have happy children, really. It’s very easy to have everyone happy with me if I never … Continue
  • Affordable Catholic Homeschool Curriculum
    by William C. Michael
    One of the most common concerns among Catholic homeschooling families is the cost of education. Parents want to provide their children with a faithful and intellectually serious education, but many families must also manage the financial realities of raising and supporting a household. As a result, many parents search for an affordable Catholic homeschool curriculum … Continue
  • Catholic Homeschool High School Curriculum
    by William C. Michael
    The high school years are one of the most important stages of a student’s intellectual formation. During these years young people move beyond basic literacy and arithmetic into deeper studies that prepare them for adult life. For Catholic homeschooling families, choosing a Catholic homeschool high school curriculum requires careful thought. Parents want their children to … Continue
  • Online Catholic Homeschool Curriculum
    by William C. Michael
    The rapid growth of online education has created new opportunities for Catholic homeschooling families. Parents who once relied entirely on printed textbooks and manual grading can now make use of online learning systems that assist with lessons, assessments, and recordkeeping. For families seeking an online Catholic homeschool curriculum, the challenge is not merely finding digital … Continue
  • The True Goal of Catholic Work and Study
    by William C. Michael
    Today is Saturday, March 7, 2026 and I’m William Michael, the headmaster of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. If you’d like to learn about what we’re doing to restore classical Catholic education, and if you’d like to join us and study at no cost, check out our website at classicalliberalarts.com. This morning, I was thinking … Continue
  • School is for Intellectual Formation, Not Social Life and Sports
    by William C. Michael
    Today is Thursday, March 5, and this is William Michael of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. One of the most important mistakes that parents make is seeking to find a school that provides everything that their children need to grow and develop well. Parents look for schools to provide not only academic instruction and assessment, … Continue
  • Don’t Be Deceived by Critics of the Church
    by William C. Michael
    Today, the following image was posted was made on social media: The image was spread around by men and women who were interested in criticizing the Second Vatican Council. The argument goes like this: 1. Whatever happens after Vatican II was caused by Vatican II.2. The decline in religious priests and sisters happened after Vatican … Continue
  • Why Catholic Mothers Should Study the Lives of the Saints
    by Mrs. Dania C. Michael, O.P.
    Most Catholic mothers know the importance of reading the Bible. The Word of God teaches us how to live and reveals God’s plan for our salvation. Many mothers also read the Catechism so they can understand the teachings of the Church and pass them on to their children. Yet the Church offers another great source … Continue
  • Does God Change His Mind?
    by William C. Michael
  • Was Peter the First Pope?
    by William C. Michael
    Recently, I’ve been engaged in a number of interesting discussions with Protestants who deny that the papacy was established by Christ in the person of St. Peter. And as I’ve been engaged in these discussions for several days, I’ve been just jotting some thoughts down and organizing my own thoughts on the topic, studying the … Continue
  • Homeschool Advice for Catholic Parents
    by William C. Michael
    I’d like to take some time today to talk about a plan for homeschooling that I would recommend for homeschooling parents who have no idea what they’re doing. When I say homeschooling parents who have no idea what they’re doing, I’m not being negative or critical. I’m being honest. I’m talking to Christian parents who … Continue
  • Modern Sciences in Classical Catholic Education
    by William C. Michael
    This talk is intended for parents and students of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy who are trying to understand how Catholic students should think about the study of the natural sciences, with a Catholic mindset, with a coherent system of Catholic thought. Many think that there’s a choice to be made between Classical Studies and … Continue
  • The Bible Does Not Teach “Sola Scriptura”
    by William C. Michael
    In this talk, I’d like to share a response to the Protestant teaching of sola scriptura, or the Protestant idea that everything necessary for the Christian life must be present in Sacred Scripture, or must be proven from Sacred Scripture and from scripture alone. Any time that Protestants and Catholics attempt to speak to each … Continue
  • Realistic Goals for Catholic Homeschooling in the Modern World
    by William C. Michael
    Catholic families who hope to live faithfully and raise their children well in the modern world must begin with realistic goals. The conditions under which Catholic parents now live are not those of medieval Christendom, nor even those of nineteenth-century America. They live under the influence of compulsory education laws. They live in an economy … Continue
Print Friendly, PDF & Email