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Jay Boren, headmaster of St. Benedict Classical Academy in South Natick, Massachusetts, emphasizes the importance of wisdom and virtue in Catholic classical education. He describes this educational approach as a means to cultivate minds and hearts toward truth, goodness, and beauty. According to Boren, "As Catholics, we believe that this process of conversion conforms us to Christ and leads us to God."
Boren believes that classical Catholic education should reconnect with traditional educational values. While reading classic texts and learning Latin are important, he argues they serve to connect students with historical wisdom.
The approach contrasts with education focused primarily on career preparation. Boren notes that while it is important for students to find meaningful work, success should not be measured solely by financial achievement but by striving for holiness and truth.
The movement toward classical Catholic education is described as a "renaissance," with new schools being established nationwide. This shift is driven by demand from parents seeking rigorous education grounded in authentic Catholicism.
Boren highlights the role of laypeople in founding these schools, which often operate independently of religious orders. This development represents a significant change from past models heavily reliant on such orders.
At St. Benedict Classical Academy, the community plays a central role. The school has grown significantly over the years and provides tuition assistance to ensure accessibility for mission-aligned families.
To support this trend, initiatives like the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education and the Catholic Talent Project have been established to train teachers and staff for these schools. Boren hopes for continued partnerships between seminaries and new schools.
Charlie Camosy is professor of medical humanities at Creighton School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska.
