Our Philosophy
CLAS Uniquely Equips Schools
We equip schools with the principles of a Charlotte Mason education that will allow them to apply the philosophy in their unique school setting. There are many different kinds of schools in the CLAS network; traditional, five day a week schools, four day a week schools, homeschool hybrids, and more. Some have half day K-2 programs, others have preschools, and several go through high school. Regardless of the vision, we honor each school's particular needs for their community by helping them integrate the Charlotte Mason philosophy in a way that works for them.
Who Was Charlotte Mason?
Dubbed the “pioneer of sane education,” Charlotte Mason was a 19th century innovator who created a biblical and practical educational philosophy that reflects a comprehensive understanding of the nature of children. Charlotte was a British educator, author, and reformer known for her unique philosophy of education that emphasizes a broad, humanities based approach to learning. She advocated for experiential learning and the crucial role of parents in providing children with an "abundant feast of ideas" from which to learn and grow.
Because of her belief that children are persons to be nurtured and not products to be manipulated, the result of her principles and practices are students who love to learn and use their gifts to glorify God and enjoy His creation. Current research increasingly affirms Mason’s philosophy as vital to the deep and long-lasting education of 21st century children.
What is the Charlotte Mason Philosophy?
Charlotte Mason believed children love to learn when presented with rich material and the opportunity to explore. She celebrated the whole child who was formed in the image of God. These methods develop students who display imagination and the ability to think creatively and critically about ideas. Some of the core practices include:
- Living Books - books that inspire thought and creativity, provide ideas and engage natural curiosity, and lead children to an authentic love for reading and learning
- Narration - the practice of repeating back what is heard or read for the purposes of gaining a deeper understanding and making connections
- Studies - picture, nature, and composer studies that are integrated into the humanities curriculum and inspire a love for God's world and the beauty within it
- Habits - working with parents to ensure children establish good habits at home and at school in the areas of: attention, perseverance, respect, obedience, self-control, responsibility, humility, integrity, honesty, and order
- Short lessons - providing children time to ruminate on information they've learned in order to think creatively about it, create connections and deeper meaning, and apply it in new ways