Anchored by the Classic Learning Test

In this episode of the Anchor Podcast, Jeremy Tate and guests Luke Heintschel and Genavive Edman discuss the mission and vision behind Coeur d'Eucharist Academy, a Catholic school in Northern Idaho. They explore the challenges and opportunities within the classical education movement, emphasizing the importance of returning to the roots of Catholic education, which prioritize virtue and excellence over mere academic achievement. Genavive shares her journey from a homeschool background to leading a school that aims to foster a strong community and a deep understanding of faith among students. Luke adds insights on the significance of whole-person formation in education, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that integrates both academic rigor and character development.Chapters00:00The Mission of Catholic Education01:00Introducing Coeur d'Eucharist Academy02:06Personal Journeys to Classical Education04:32The Debate on Classical vs. Liberal Education07:25The Decline of Catholic Schools09:31Origins of Coeur d'Eucharist Academy12:47Influences and Inspirations14:10Distinctive Features of the Academy19:32Navigating Diocesan Relationships21:46The Revival of Catholic Education24:28Curriculum and Academic Focus29:38Books That Shape Our Mission

The conversation with Mike McKenna provides insights into the world of Classical Christian Education and the shift away from school rankings to celebrate partner schools.TakeawaysClassical Christian education emphasizes the development of the whole person in ChristThe CLT is moving away from school rankings to highlight and celebrate partner schoolsChapters00:29 Introduction to Mike McKenna and Classical Christian Education03:17 Mike McKenna's Educational Journey06:09 Mars Hill Academy Strengths and Community09:36 Mission Preservation in Education12:16 Adopting CLT Assessments15:43 Engagement and Preparation for Success18:35 Impactful Texts and Closing Thoughts

How should classical education respond to artificial intelligence—and what happens to formation when machines can teach faster than humans? In this panel from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, CLT brings together leading scholars and practitioners to wrestle with AI, virtue, and the future of learning.​Moderated by Dr. Angel Adams Parham (University of Virginia; former President of the CLT Board of Academic Advisors), this conversation features Dr. Christopher Perrin (Classical Academic Press), Dr. Brian Williams (Templeton Honors College, Eastern University), and Erin Valdez (University of Austin; education and public policy). They discuss how AI is already reshaping classrooms, what is at stake for the telos of education, and how classical schools, homeschoolers, and universities can use new tools without sacrificing human formation.Across the panel you’ll hear:Stories from higher ed and K–12 about plagiarism, AI‑graded essays, and “alpha schools” that rely on AI tutors instead of teachers.A deep dive into the difference between information and formation, and why contemplation, attention, and love of the good cannot be automated.​Concrete use‑cases where AI may genuinely serve classical learning (e.g., language drilling, logistics, research assistance) and where it risks dehumanizing students.​Recorded live at the 2025 Annapolis Summit, hosted by Classic Learning Test (CLT). Perfect for parents, teachers, school leaders, and students who care about classical education, virtue ethics, and the future of humane learning in an AI age.

Taken from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, this episode brings together leading voices in classical education to clarify how CLT thinks and talks about learning. “Towards a Common Language at CLT” features Dr. Timothy Wiens, Laura Berquist, Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, Dr. Daniel Peterson, and Dr. Justin Smith in a lively roundtable on what terms like “classical,” “liberal arts,” “formation,” and “rigor” really mean.They explore why shared language matters for schools, homeschool families, and colleges partnering with CLT, and how a clear vocabulary can unite diverse approaches around a common vision. Educators, parents, and students will gain a deeper understanding of CLT’s mission and how it seeks to serve the renewal of learning in the modern world.Perfect for anyone asking: What exactly do we mean by “classical education,” and how does CLT fit into that story?

This episode brings together three of the most influential public intellectuals of our time for a rare, honest conversation about truth, disagreement, and unity in a polarized age. Father Robert Sirico moderates a powerful dialogue between Dr. Cornel West and Professor Robert P. George as they discuss their co‑authored book, Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division.Episode descriptionCan people who profoundly disagree still be friends—and work together for the common good? In this special panel discussion, Father Sirico hosts Cornel West and Robert P. George to explore how to seek truth, argue with integrity, and practice real civility without watering down conviction. They share personal stories, hard‑won wisdom, and practical principles for disagreement that is honest, charitable, and fruitful.Listeners will hear them wrestle with:Why truth matters more than tribalism or party loyaltyHow to argue in good faith without demonizing opponentsThe role of faith, conscience, and moral courage in public lifeWhether you are a student, educator, pastor, or concerned citizen, this conversation offers a hopeful model for how to think deeply, disagree strongly, and still recognize the dignity of those on the “other side.”

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast by Classic Learning Test, Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with 98‑year‑old Blouke Carus to share an unforgettable story of childhood under Nazi Germany, escape to the United States, and a life shaped by liberal arts education. Carus reflects on what it was like to grow up under totalitarianism, the moment his family fled, and how coming back to America formed his understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the human person.​Drawing on decades as a leader in publishing and education, Carus explains why studying the great books, history, and philosophy gave him resilience, moral clarity, and a sense of purpose that ideology could never supply. This conversation is ideal for students, parents, teachers, and school leaders seeking an alternative to purely technocratic education and looking to recover a deeply human vision of learning.​Listeners will hear about:Life as a child in Nazi Germany and the dangers of propaganda and dehumanizationHis escape back to the United States and the gratitude that shaped his vocationHow a liberal arts education informed his career, leadership, and family lifeWhy reading the great books is essential for forming free and virtuous citizens todayIf you care about classical education, the future of American schools, or how to form the next generation against totalitarian thinking, this episode is for you.

Today Jeremy is joined by Susan Morrow, PhD, who obtained her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center.  Susan describes her unique childhood growing up in a funeral parlor, her educational journey as well as moral conflicts she experienced as a professional scientist, and her ultimate decision to devote herself full time to raising her family.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Shannon Johnston, Assistant Professor of Art and Director of the Pathmaker program at Newman University. They discuss how Pathmaker is reimagining higher education by offering students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years through an innovative, project-based learning model that emphasizes mentorship and individualized learning experiences. They also reflect on the growing influence of AI in both art and education, while emphasizing that human creativity remains irreplaceable.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Chad Pecknold, Associate Professor of Theology at the Catholic University and author of Fire on the Altar: Setting Our Souls Ablaze through Augustine’s Confessions. They discuss St. Augustine as offering the structural blueprint for Western civilization and Christianity as the religious DNA embedded within it. They also dive into the term Christian nationalism and the strong, cultural desire to return to public Christianity. stpaulcenter.co/fireonthealtarInstagram: @stpaulcenter and @emmausroadpublishingX: @ccpecknold

On this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren is joined by Semi Park, founding Headmaster of Orange County Classical Academy. She discusses her experiences serving underserved schools, her transition to classical education, and the founding of OCCA amidst significant challenges and opposition. They emphasize the importance of mission-driven education, the role of parents, and the need for diversity in thought over mere representation. She also addresses the current challenges facing classical education in California.