Immaculate Conception Cathedral School, the Parish School of our Mother Church, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Midtown Memphis, will transition to a Classical Education model beginning this fall, announced The Cathedral Pastor Fr. Robert Szczechura. The curriculum change will give ICCS, a co-ed Pre-K through Eighth Grade School, the distinction of being the only Catholic school in Memphis to offer Classical Education.
“Classical schools have been emerging all over the country, in both the Christian and secular environments,” said Fr. Szczechura. Students will be taught the virtues of wisdom, honesty, integrity and respect–but, more importantly, to consider these in every decision they make.”
Based on the ancient goals of education, a Classical Education is focused on a traditional curriculum, including the use of classical books and art, with a concentrated study of the core academic disciplines: history, literature, mathematics and science as well as visual and performing arts with a strong emphasis on language, literacy, writing and mastery of the English language.
The focus is shifted away from technology in the classroom to promote interpersonal communications and real dialogue.
The change to a Classical Model was the result of months-long study and research by a team of school board members consisting of alumni, school parents and educators charged with evaluating the school and suggesting ways to maintain sustainability in the competitive private school market.
“We believe these changes will enable us to maintain Catholic education in Midtown Memphis for years to come,” said Fr. Szczechura.
Please click on the following links to read, Fr. Robert Szczechura’s letter and Superintendent Nic Antoine’s letter, regarding this exciting announcement:
Note: Now in its 100th year, ICCS was established by the Sisters of Mercy a year after Immaculate Conception Catholic Church was built on the corner of Rozelle and Central in the Central Gardens. Rooted in Catholic principals, the school serves a richly diverse group of students from a variety of faiths and backgrounds from across the Memphis area.
