In response to the growing demand for skilled classical educators, Taylor University has joined forces with the Society for Classical Learning (SCL) and Classical Academic Press to launch a new graduate program designed to equip teachers for excellence in classical education. This initiative offers a track of seven graduate-level courses that lead to SCL teacher certification.
Co-directed by Eric Cook, President of the Society for Classical Learning, and Joelle Hodge, President of Classical Academic Press, the program emphasizes the foundational principles of classical education. Coursework covers essential topics such as classical pedagogy, school and classroom culture, curriculum development, and student assessment. The program also integrates high-impact lecture content from ClassicalU.com, a leading platform in teacher training.
Participants will gain hands-on experience through a practicum with schools accredited or endorsed by the Society for Classical Learning, ensuring practical, real-world preparation for the classroom.
This collaboration arrives at a critical moment. Classical Christian education is experiencing unprecedented growth—with over 677,500 students enrolled in 1,551 institutions during the 2023–2024 academic year. That number is expected to double by 2035, according to Forbes. Between 2019 and 2023 alone, 264 new classical schools opened across the country (RealClearPolitics). In light of this surge, Taylor University's new initiative positions it as a national leader in preparing the next generation of classical educators.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Taylor University and Classical Academic Press to offer a rigorous and practical program for training future classical educators,” said Eric Cook, President of the Society for Classical Learning. “This is more than a certification—it’s a pathway for shaping thoughtful, virtuous, and well-prepared teachers who will lead the next chapter of the classical education movement.”
