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Schedule 2025-26 For more information on the courses listed below, consult the Course Offerings page. Mon day 9:00 - 10:30 am Bible Overview 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Introductory Biology Tuesday 9:00 - 10:30 am Creative Writing 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Introduction to Literary Analysis 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Algebra I 12:30 - 2:00 pm Great Books II 12:30 - 2:30 pm Pre-Algebra 3:30 - 5:00 pm Growth and Structure of the English Language II 7:00 - 8:30 pm Integrated Biology Wednesday 9:00 - 10:30 am Bible Overview 7:00 - 8:30 pm The World of Faërie: Fairy Tales, Faith, and Enchantment Thursday 9:00 - 10:30 am Integrated Math, Science, and Engineering (IMS) 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Algebra I 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Music: Meaning and Materials

Setup & Registration Location All classes take place in person at the Presbyterian Church of Manchester ( 394 Lydall Street, Manchester, CT 06042). See our Schedule and Calendar for meeting days and times, term dates, and holidays. Frequency and Duration Classes meet for 90 minutes or two hours once or twice weekly, as specified on the Course Offerings page. Tuition $400 per full-year course Registration Please contact the teacher of the course you wish to register in by email (click on the name of the teacher on our About or Course Offerings page). Teachers are happy to set up a phone conversation to discuss their courses and student placement; please include your phone number in the email if you'd like to be contacted by phone.

If you wish to support the work of The Civitas School, charitable donations may be made to The Presbyterian Church of Manchester 394 Lydall Street Manchester, CT 06042 Checks should be made out to the Presbyterian Church of Manchester with “Civitas School donation” in the memo line. Charitable donations may be tax deductible only to the extent allowed by law. Giving

Full Course Catalog Registration for academic year 2025-26 is currently open. To inquire about a class, please contact the teacher via email (click on the teacher's name below). If you would like to discuss a course or student placement over the phone, please include your phone number in your email to the teacher. Pre-Algebra (Laurie Warren ) Aims to develop confidence and independence in the concepts and skills necessary to approach Algebra successfully. Grade: 7, 8, 9 (placement test required) Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Algebra I ( Laurie Warren ) Using Elementary Algebra by Harold Jacobs, students will cover topics such as operations, square roots, graphing, linear, simultaneous and quadratic equations with plenty of practice. This is a dialect approach where illustrations and real life critical thinking problems help students understand why formulas work and how to apply them. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10 (placement test required) Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) Geometry (Marty Georges ) This two-semester course will cover elements of classical Euclidean geometry: logic, proofs, and deductive reasoning; points, lines and planes; rays and angles; congruent triangles; parallel lines and quadrilaterals; transformations and symmetry; area; right triangles; regular polygons and circles; geometric solids and volume; and coordinate geometry. Course material will be drawn primarily from Harold Jacob's Geometry (3rd edition), with supplemental material from Euclid's Elements . Weekly homework will emphasize student mastery of essential principles, as well as application to practical examples. Grade: 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 NEW! Introductory Biology (Charles Nystrom ) Over 2 semesters, we will work together through the wonders of biology, focused on going beyond the text, memorization, and classification, and into the sacred, marvelous, and created. The class will consist of lectures, homework assignments, a midterm and final, and creative opportunities. Guidance will be provided for completion of optional (but highly encouraged) at home labs, and select group lab demonstrations will be organized as we are able. Fall Semester: Using the first half (modules 1-8) of Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Biology , 2nd ed (Wile & Durnell) as our framework, we will cover the tenets of biology, microbes, fungi, the chemistry of biology, cell structure/anatomy, cell reproduction and DNA, and genetics. Spring Semester: Using the second half (modules 9-16) of Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Biology , 2nd ed (Wile & Durnell) as our framework, we will cover evolution, ecology, invertebrates, plants, and vertebrates. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: General Science course; ability to read, take notes, and work independently Meets once a week (see Schedule ) NEW! Integrated Biology ( Charles Nystrom ) Intended to be a companion course to the core Biology course, or to serve as a stand alone course for the motivated student or curious life-long learner. Using that week’s core biology material as a starting point, we will explore anything and everything biology touches: graduate fields of study, careers, industries; theology, philosophy, poetry, art; medicine, practical life, whimsy. We will begin with review of optional homework/readings, move into group discussion/activity, and end with a time of informal lecture/dialogue that is open to the public. Optional grading and adjustably rigorous assignments can be discussed on an individual basis, or the class can be taken without a grade in mind and simply to explore biology. Parents are welcome to participate as they desire. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests; written and oral assignments optional Pre-requisites: currently taking or have taken high school biology; or strong interest in biology Meets once a week in the evening (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 (no cost to students of Introductory Biology course) Integrated Math Science and Engineering (IMS) ( Marty Georges ) Exploration of classical problems of science and engineering throughout history, particularly those problems that have led to the development of mathematical methods that scientists and engineers take for granted today. Students will learn to develop solutions to problems using first principles of physics and engineering. The course will consist of lectures, in-class collaborative problem solving, weekly homework, and unit studies. Topics may vary depending upon the interests of students; previously the class analyzed, modeled, and accurately predicted the performance and trajectory of a SpaceX Falcon 9 booster. Grade: 11, 12 Prerequisites: Algebra II, Trigonometry, Geometry; Pre-calculus or Calculus desired. Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) Observational Astronomy ( Marty Georges ) Introduction to astronomy intended for the novice and focused on the practical aspects of observing the heavens both with the naked eye and with a telescope. Particular attention will be devoted to the coordinate system of the night sky; the order and system of constellations; how to locate celestial objects; the motion of the sun, m oon, stars, and planets; the use of software to plan and model observations (i.e. Starry Night); and the use of a large amateur telescope. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 Music: Meaning and Materials (John Sundet ) We think of music as primarily about listening and pleasure, but these things are merely a gateway to the riches that deeper musical study yields. This course provides an introduction to music with a focus on language and participation, covering philosophy (musical meaning, learning to think about music), physics and materials (rhythm, tone and pitch, timbr e, etc.), notation, and theory (temperament, scales, keys, harmony, etc.) . The course will approach all topics via concrete musical examples and stress active active musical involvement using our voices—the primary musical instrument given to each of us. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Prior musical experience welcome but not needed. Meets once a week (see Schedule ) What has Athens to do with Jerusalem? (Intro to Philosophy) ( Marty Georges ) “A great deal as it turns out.” —Dr. John Mark Reynolds. Introduction to philosophy through selected readings exploring faith, reason, and western civilizations. Topics may vary depending upon the interests of students, but will include at minimum: existence; properties; belief, justification, and knowledge; the intersection between faith and philosophy; and the history of philosophy. Particular attention will be devoted to the development of critical reading and concise writing skills through the use of analytical outlines and a weekly précis. The course will consist of lectures, in-class discussions, weekly reading assignments, an d short papers (<650 words). We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 Bible Overview (John Sundet ) A guided journey through the full text of the Bible designed to promote biblical literacy and to establish the basis for a lifetime of reflection and re-engagement with the text. A prominent goal is to assure that no book or chapter remains obscure or unr elated to the redemptive narrative. First semester: Genesis through Song of Songs; Second semester: Isaiah through Revelation. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) NEW! Introduction to Literary Analysis (Debbie Goodale ) Literary analysis is taught through various skills: annotating, how to infer themes, identifying and learning how authors use literary devices to enrich meaning, character analysis, and identifying the narrative elements that make a story. These skills when practiced will help students grow in their capacity to read complex text. Socratic circles and learning how to question the text is another essential higher level reading skill. Writing will be an essential component as students learn how to support their assertions about the text through strong textual evidence. Grade: 7, 8 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Creative Writing (Debbie Goodale ) In this course, students will explore different forms of creative writing, such as poetry, memoir/narrative pieces, creative nonfiction, and journaling. Students will analyze mentor texts (the writing of published authors) as models for improving and expanding their creative writing skills. Students can expect mini-lessons and practice in creative writing skills, including word choice, voice, tone, etc. In addition, students will read various texts by poets and writers that speak to the creative writing process. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Literary Study Toolkit I: Basic Analysis (Joseph Leake ) This one-semester course will equip junior high students with the tools and confidence they need to approach literature in high school and beyond. One half of the course will focus on poetry, from comprehension and enjoyment to form, structure, and terminology. (What’s the difference between a metaphor and a simile? Between assonance and alliteration? Between the Italian sonnet and the English sonnet?) The other half will focus on prose fiction: plot structure, character classification, genre, terminology. (What’s the difference between falling action and resolution? Between a protagonist and a deuteragonist? Between a romance and a Bildungsroman?) Assignments will include short readings, quizzes, and creative writing in the genres studied. Grade: 7, 8 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 Literary Study Toolkit II: Mythology (Joseph Leake ) Do you know what Hamlet means when he describes his mother as “like Niobe, all tears”? Most modern readers don’t have the background information necessary to grasp the classical allusions that pervade not only Shakespeare, but virtually every author up until the 21st century. This course offers students a welcoming and engaging entrée into Greco-Roman and Norse mythology, walking them through the important myths that have shaped, inspired, and adorned so much of western literature. Assignments will include short readings, quizzes, and creative rewriting of a myth. Grade: 7, 8 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 Great Books of Western Civilization I (Joseph Leake ) Consider this course an invitation to embark on a three-year exploration of western literature, a ticket to tantalizing worlds lost to time, and the opportunity of a lifetime to see through the eyes of our intellectual forebears. Students will face the herculean—and richly rewarding—task of wrestling with the weightiest works of the western tradition from the ancient to the early medieval: Gilgamesh , Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey , Aeschylus’ Oresteia , Virgil’s Aeneid , Beowulf , Norse Eddas , The Saga of the Völsungs , and Njal’s Saga . Alongside the literature, the course will give students an historical framework for understanding the trajectory of western thought and art, covering such topics as the heroic age, orality and literacy, the consolidation of power under Rome, the subsequent dissolution of the Empire and rise of European nations, the spread of Christianity, and the conversion of the pagan north. Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 This course constitutes a portion of our three-year Great Books program; each Great Books course is offered in rotation, and students may take them in any order NEW! Great Books of Western Civilization II (Joseph Leake ) Picking up the threads from the previous course, this second installment in our Great Books program teases out the richly woven tapestry of thought from the High Middle Ages through the Renaissance. Students will enter the alien yet oddly-familiar and strikingly beautiful worlds depicted in The Song of Roland , the Lays of Marie de France, the Arthurian romances of Chrétien de Troyes, Dante’s Divine Comedy , Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales , Sir Gawain and the Green Knight , Cervantes’ Don Quixote , and Shakespeare’s Hamlet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream . Emerging with a robust understanding of this crucial epoch in the western tradition, students will delve into such topics as the transition from heroic epic to romance, the spread of the Italian Renaissance, Humanism and the Reformation, and the development of English drama. Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) This course constitutes a portion of our three-year Great Books program; each Great Books course is offered in rotation, and students may take them in any order Great Books of Western Civilization III (Joseph Leake ) Details coming soon Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 This course constitutes a portion of our three-year Great Books program; each Great Books course is offered in rotation, and students may take them in any order NEW! The World of Faërie: Fairy Tales, Faith, and Enchantment (Joseph Leake ) G.K. Chesterton once described a time when, in search of something to read, he found himself looking drearily through a stack of dreary-sounding modern novels, when all of a sudden he found one that made him cry out for joy: “Here at least, here at last, one could find a little common sense!” he thought. The book he had found was a copy of Grimms’ Fairy Tales . C.S. Lewis once observed that fairy tales were an essential part of preparing children for the trials and tribulations of the modern world, reasoning “Since it so likely that they will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage.” And J.R.R. Tolkien wrote that fairy tales contain an image of the Gospel, “giving a fleeting glimpse of Joy, Joy beyond the walls of the world, poignant as grief.” What did Tolkien mean by this? And how could Chesterton and Lewis claim that fairy tales were relevant—even vital—in the modern, “real” world? We’ll explore the answers to these questions (and more!) in this course, as we delve into the origins, symbolism, and artistry of the fairy tale tradition. We’ll examine the roots of fairy tales in ancient myth and trace out the influence of fairy tales on modern fantasy and film; discover the origins of the word “fairy” itself; survey the great 19th-century effort to rescue fairy tales from oblivion; read and discuss the sometimes-surprising original versions of well-known stories such as Sleeping Beauty and The Little Mermaid , as well as less-well-known tales such as Soria Moria Castle , Childe Rowland , and The Battle of the Birds ; examine the writings of authors such as Chesterton, Lewis, and Tolkien on the value and meaning of fairy tales for Christians; and ultimately, consider why it is that fairy tales have always delighted readers and filled them with wonder—and continue to do so today. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests or written assignments Course meets 14 weeks one evening per week (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 Growth and Structure of the English Language I: Greek and Latin Roots (Joseph Leake ) Never again agonize over the difference between “affect” and “effect” or find yourself puzzled by the meanings of words like “pellucid,” “pusillanimous,” and “parsimonious”! A detailed study of the Greek and Latin elements (roots, prefixes, and suffixes) in English—the building blocks of thousands of words—expands students’ vocabulary and enables them to write and speak with greater precision. Additionally, the study of Greek and Latin roots in English enriches students’ comprehension (and appreciation) of the classics of English literature. Why, for example, does Shakespeare describe Ophelia as a “document in madness”? Why does the word “condescending” sometimes have positive (rather than negative) connotations in the novels of Jane Austen? This course provides students a deeper, more complex understanding of the English language and the histories and stories that make it what it is. Discover what the words “villain” and “village” have to do with one another; what the word “egregious” has to do with sheep; why a “decimal” means a tenth of something, but “December” is the twelfth month instead of the tenth; and much more! Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 NEW! Growth and Structure of the English Language II: English Language and Literature, Medieval to Modern (Joseph Leake ) Did you know that English boasts the oldest tradition of vernacular literature in Europe, reaching back over 1,300 years? English grammar and vocabulary have changed and developed over time to make, not only the language we know today, but also that of our greatest literary and historical monuments—from the Old English of the first Bible-translations and the Middle English of The Canterbury Tales to the Renaissance English of Shakespeare, from the neoclassical style of Jane Austen and the Declaration of Independence to the use of American dialect in the novels of Mark Twain. Students powerfully strengthen their understanding and use of English by studying the history of both the language and its literature together. This approach allows students to put down deep roots in English: instead of starting from abstract principles of grammar and usage and then applying those principles, students begin organically with the language and literature itself; they go “inside” the language and learn from its literary Masters, acquiring along the way enhanced vocabulary, greater skill in composition, and increased literary comprehension. Come find out why some characters say “thou” but others say “you” in Shakespeare’s plays, what the witches in Macbeth have to do with the dragon in Beowulf, why saying that Sir Lancelot “wept with heavy cheer” is not as contradictory as it looks, what the real difference is between “sit” and “set,” “lie” and “lay”; and much more! Grades: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Arthurian Literature and Composition (Joseph Leake ) Exploration of Europe’s greatest cycle of stories, the Arthurian legend. Students will learn literary analysis and interpretation and hone their composition skills through studying a range of texts, including Celtic myth, medieval romance, Renaissance allegory, and the fiction of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Grade: 10, 11, 12 Not offered for academic year 2025-26 Senior Thesis Writing Class ( Eleanor Georges ) Advanced writing course that hones skills of critical thinking, research, argumentation, and editing, refines the writing process (outlining, drafting, revising), and culminates in the composition and public presentation and defense of a thesis-length essay. Grade 12 Meets twice weekly, Spring semester only (day and time scheduled based on availability of registered students ) The Worlds of Lewis and Tolkien (Joseph Leake ) An evening course—open to both high school students and adults—exploring the literary works that inspired the fictional worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Reading from selected works of Tolkien and Lewis, as well as the very tales that so profoundly shaped these authors’ imaginations, including Greek and Norse mythology, Celtic and Anglo-Saxon legend, and the fairy-tales of northwestern Europe. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests or written assignments Course meets 14 weeks; not offered for academic year 2025-26 Special cost: $100 Latin through the Aeneid (Isabella Leake ) Most Latin curricula require at least 2-3 years of grammar study before giving students the rich and satisfying experience of reading great Latin texts—such as Vergil’s Aeneid —in the original. This course, however, takes the opposite approach, taking the Aeneid not as the end goal but as the starting point. Students at any level of Latin, beginner to advanced, will learn to construe and translate this great Roman epic, mastering or reviewing the relevant vocabulary and grammar alongside study of the text. The instructor will guide each student in developing an individualized plan of study according to his prior experience (if any) with Latin. The class will also study and memorize one Christian text (such as the Apostles’ Creed or Lord’s Prayer) and one Latin hymn per term. Both classical and ecclesiastical pronunciation will be introduced and used. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Not offered for academic year 2024-25 OTHER COURSES IN DEVELOPMENT If you would like to see us offer a particular course or discipline in future semesters, please let us know! Suggest a course Name Email I would be interested in (select all that apply) Additional math options Additional English options Additional science options History Foreign language Electives Classes for younger students Other Further details [optional] Submit

High School Course Offerings 2025-26 Registration for academic year 2025-26 is currently open. To inquire about a class, please contact the teacher via email (click on the teacher's name below). If you would like to discuss a course or student placement over the phone, please include your phone number in your email to the teacher. Algebra I ( Laurie Warren ) Using Elementary Algebra by Harold Jacobs, students will cover topics such as operations, square roots, graphing, linear, simultaneous and quadratic equations with plenty of practice. This is a dialect approach where illustrations and real life critical thinking problems help students understand why formulas work and how to apply them. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10 Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) NEW! Introductory Biology (Charles Nystrom ) Over 2 semesters, we will work together through the wonders of biology, focused on going beyond the text, memorization, and classification, and into the sacred, marvelous, and created. The class will consist of lectures, homework assignments, a midterm and final, and creative opportunities. Guidance will be provided for completion of optional (but highly encouraged) at home labs, and select group lab demonstrations will be organized as we are able. Fall Semester: Using the first half (modules 1-8) of Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Biology , 2nd ed (Wile & Durnell) as our framework, we will cover the tenets of biology, microbes, fungi, the chemistry of biology, cell structure/anatomy, cell reproduction and DNA, and genetics. Spring Semester: Using the second half (modules 9-16) of Apologia’s Exploring Creation with Biology , 2nd ed (Wile & Durnell) as our framework, we will cover evolution, ecology, invertebrates, plants, and vertebrates. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 Pre-requisites: General Science course; ability to read, take notes, and work independently Meets once a week (see Schedule ) NEW! Integrated Biology ( Charles Nystrom ) Intended to be a companion course to the core Biology course, or to serve as a stand alone course for the motivated student or curious life-long learner. Using that week’s core biology material as a starting point, we will explore anything and everything biology touches: graduate fields of study, careers, industries; theology, philosophy, poetry, art; medicine, practical life, whimsy. We will begin with review of optional homework/readings, move into group discussion/activity, and end with a time of informal lecture/dialogue that is open to the public. Optional grading and adjustably rigorous assignments can be discussed on an individual basis, or the class can be taken without a grade in mind and simply to explore biology. Parents are welcome to participate as they desire. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests; written and oral assignments optional Pre-requisites: currently taking or have taken high school biology; or strong interest in biology Meets once a week in the evening (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 (no cost to students of Introductory Biology course) Integrated Math Science and Engineering (IMS) (Marty Georges ) Exploration of classical problems of science and engineering throughout history, particularly those problems that have led to the development of mathematical methods that scientists and engineers take for granted today. Students will learn to develop solutions to problems using first principles of physics and engineering. The course will consist of lectures, in-class collaborative problem solving, weekly homework, and unit studies. Topics may vary depending upon the interests of students; previously the class analyzed, modeled, and accurately predicted the performance and trajectory of a SpaceX Falcon 9 booster. Grade: 11, 12 Prerequisites: Algebra II, Trigonometry, Geometry; Pre-calculus or Calculus desired. Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Music: Meaning and Materials (John Sundet ) We think of music as primarily about listening and pleasure, but these things are merely a gateway to the riches that deeper musical study yields. This course provides an introduction to music with a focus on language and participation, covering philosophy (musical meaning, learning to think about music), physics and materials (rhythm, tone and pitch, timbr e, etc.), notation, and theory (temperament, scales, keys, harmony, etc.) . The course will approach all topics via concrete musical examples and stress active active musical involvement using our voices—the primary musical instrument given to each of us. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Prior musical experience welcome but not needed. Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Bible Overview (John Sundet ) A guided journey through the full text of the Bible designed to promote biblical literacy and to establish the basis for a lifetime of reflection and re-engagement with the text. A prominent goal is to assure that no book or chapter remains obscure or unr elated to the redemptive narrative. First semester: Genesis through Song of Songs; Second semester: Isaiah through Revelation. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) NEW! Great Books of Western Civilization II (Joseph Leake ) Picking up the threads from the previous course, this second installment in our Great Books program teases out the richly woven tapestry of thought from the High Middle Ages through the Renaissance. Students will enter the alien yet oddly-familiar and strikingly beautiful worlds depicted in The Song of Roland , the Lays of Marie de France, the Arthurian romances of Chrétien de Troyes, Dante’s Divine Comedy , Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales , Sir Gawain and the Green Knight , Cervantes’ Don Quixote , and Shakespeare’s Hamlet and A Midsummer Night’s Dream . Emerging with a robust understanding of this crucial epoch in the western tradition, students will delve into such topics as the transition from heroic epic to romance, the spread of the Italian Renaissance, Humanism and the Reformation, and the development of English drama. Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) This course constitutes a portion of our three-year Great Books program; each Great Books course is offered in rotation, and students may take them in any order Creative Writing (Debbie Goodale ) In this course, students will explore different forms of creative writing, such as poetry, memoir/narrative pieces, creative nonfiction, and journaling. Students will analyze mentor texts (the writing of published authors) as models for improving and expanding their creative writing skills. Students can expect mini-lessons and practice in creative writing skills, including word choice, voice, tone, etc. In addition, students will read various texts by poets and writers that speak to the creative writing process. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) NEW! Growth and Structure of the English Language II: English Language and Literature, Medieval to Modern (Joseph Leake ) Did you know that English boasts the oldest tradition of vernacular literature in Europe, reaching back over 1,300 years? English grammar and vocabulary have changed and developed over time to make, not only the language we know today, but also that of our greatest literary and historical monuments—from the Old English of the first Bible-translations and the Middle English of The Canterbury Tales to the Renaissance English of Shakespeare, from the neoclassical style of Jane Austen and the Declaration of Independence to the use of American dialect in the novels of Mark Twain. Students powerfully strengthen their understanding and use of English by studying the history of both the language and its literature together. This approach allows students to put down deep roots in English: instead of starting from abstract principles of grammar and usage and then applying those principles, students begin organically with the language and literature itself; they go “inside” the language and learn from its literary Masters, acquiring along the way enhanced vocabulary, greater skill in composition, and increased literary comprehension. Come find out why some characters say “thou” but others say “you” in Shakespeare’s plays, what the witches in Macbeth have to do with the dragon in Beowulf, why saying that Sir Lancelot “wept with heavy cheer” is not as contradictory as it looks, what the real difference is between “sit” and “set,” “lie” and “lay”; and much more! Grades: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Senior Thesis Writing Class (Eleanor Georges ) Advanced writing course that hones skills of critical thinking, research, argumentation, and editing, refines the writing process (outlining, drafting, revising), and culminates in the composition and public presentation and defense of a thesis-length essay. Grade: 12 Meets twice weekly, Spring semester only (day and time scheduled based on availability of registered students ) NEW! The World of Faërie: Fairy Tales, Faith, and Enchantment (Joseph Leake ) G.K. Chesterton once described a time when, in search of something to read, he found himself looking drearily through a stack of dreary-sounding modern novels, when all of a sudden he found one that made him cry out for joy: “Here at least, here at last, one could find a little common sense!” he thought. The book he had found was a copy of Grimms’ Fairy Tales . C.S. Lewis once observed that fairy tales were an essential part of preparing children for the trials and tribulations of the modern world, reasoning “Since it so likely that they will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage.” And J.R.R. Tolkien wrote that fairy tales contain an image of the Gospel, “giving a fleeting glimpse of Joy, Joy beyond the walls of the world, poignant as grief.” What did Tolkien mean by this? And how could Chesterton and Lewis claim that fairy tales were relevant—even vital—in the modern, “real” world? We’ll explore the answers to these questions (and more!) in this course, as we delve into the origins, symbolism, and artistry of the fairy tale tradition. We’ll examine the roots of fairy tales in ancient myth and trace out the influence of fairy tales on modern fantasy and film; discover the origins of the word “fairy” itself; survey the great 19th-century effort to rescue fairy tales from oblivion; read and discuss the sometimes-surprising original versions of well-known stories such as Sleeping Beauty and The Little Mermaid , as well as less-well-known tales such as Soria Moria Castle , Childe Rowland , and The Battle of the Birds ; examine the writings of authors such as Chesterton, Lewis, and Tolkien on the value and meaning of fairy tales for Christians; and ultimately, consider why it is that fairy tales have always delighted readers and filled them with wonder—and continue to do so today. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests or written assignments Meets once a week in the evening for 14 weeks (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 OTHER COURSES IN DEVELOPMENT If you would like to see us offer a particular course or discipline in future semesters, please let us know!

Event Schedule 2025 The Civitas School offers events with an educational and spiritual focus as part of our calling to serve and enrich the local community. We welcome anyone, whether a Civitas student or not, to attend these events. Upcoming Events Saturday, June 28, 2025 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm Civitas Summer Lecture Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part I Join Civitas teacher Eleanor Georges for an evening of learning and literary delight as we consider the play's historical backdrop, the changes Shakespeare made to his sources, and the richness of his language. Whether you’re brushing up before a Backyard Shakespeare performance, reacquainting yourself with an old favorite, or simply in the mood for a rollicking good time, you’ll come away seeing Falstaff, Prince Hal, and the whole merry band in a new—and Gospel-infused—light. Date TBD | 7:00 - 8:30 pm Teacher Open House Civitas instructors in math, science, English, music, and biblical literacy will be on hand to meet prospective students and parents, discuss their classes, and answer questions. If you've been wanting to meet face-to-face, see the classroom spaces, find out more about Civitas or a particular course, or even just chat about philosophy of education—this will be your chance! Previous Events Thursday, May 15, 2025 | 6:30 - 9:30 pm Friday, May 16, 2025 | 6:30 - 9:30 pm Senior Thesis Defense Come see our graduating seniors defend their capstone theses. Each evening, students will present their projects, defend them against a panel of Readers, and take Q&A from the audience. Thursday evening presentations: 6:30 Screens Across Generations: How Social Media Undermines Critical Thinking and Foresight 7:30 AI Cannot Create: AI is Limited to Pattern Recognition Systems that Can Generate Facsimiles, but Art Comes from the Imagination — the Divine Spark of Ingenuity Found Only in Mankind 8:30 AI and Ethics Friday evening presentations: 6:30 The Advantages of Being the Youngest of a Large Family 7:30 The Dyslexic Difference: Recognizing the Dyslexic Strengths and Potential for Unique Societal Impact 8:30 Why Young Adults Leave Their Faith, and the Remedy Each presentation will start on time. If you are early for a student’s turn, please join us by entering quietly and taking a seat in the back. The students will not be disturbed. We will make sure that there are enough chairs, and you can move up later for the next presentation. Both evenings culminate in celebratory fellowship with families, students, teachers, and the Civitas community. This is a great opportunity for younger students to get inspired and be challenged in their academic pursuits. Saturday, April 12, 2025 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm Civitas Book C lub Sir Gawain & the Green Knight Read the classics in community! Join Civitas teachers, students, parents, and members of the local Christian community in reading and discussing some of the best and most beloved classics of world literature. ( More about the Civitas Book Club .) Our discussion of Sir Gawain & the Green Knight will be led by Civitas teacher Joseph Leake. Saturday, January 25, 2025 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm Civitas Book C lub The Book of Ezekiel Read the classics in community! Join Civitas teachers, students, parents, and members of the local Christian community in reading and discussing some of the best and most beloved classics of world literature. ( More about the Civitas Book Club .) Our discussion of Ezekiel will be led by Civitas teacher John Sundet. Friday, December 20, 2024 | 7:00 pm A Great Light: Christ in Advent Poetry & Theology with Dr. Joseph Leake Medieval Christians possessed a vivid and resplendent vocabulary for describing the Advent and Nativity of Christ. In this talk, co-sponsored by the Edwards Institute and The Civitas School, Dr. Leake will examine some Advent-related images used by medieval theologians and poets, tracing their origins from the rich store of Greek, Latin, Gothic, and Old English words and phrases, and discuss how these descriptions deepen and enrich our joy in Christ’s first coming. Saturday, October 19, 2024 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm Civitas Book C lub Jane Austen's Persuasion Read the classics in community! Join Civitas teachers, students, parents, and members of the local Christian community in reading and discussing some of the best and most beloved classics of world literature. (More about the Civitas Book Club .) Our discussion of Persuasion will be led by Civitas teachers Joseph and Isabella Leake. (More about Persuasion . ) Thursday, August 22, 2024 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm Teacher Open House Six Civitas instructors in math, science, English, music, and biblical literacy will be on hand to meet prospective students and parents, discuss their classes, and answer questions. If you've been wanting to meet face-to-face, see the classroom spaces, find out more about Civitas or a particular course, or even just chat about philosophy of education—this will be your chance! For more information and a list of participating teachers, please see our blog post about the event. Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 8:30 am - 12:30 pm Magistras & Majestas: Education and the Glory of God What is it like to be a Civitas student? Now is your chance to find out! Sample the excitement, spiritual nourishment, and joy of a Civitas education as five expert and enthusiastic teachers model our teaching philosophy through brief lessons—what can algebra, engineering, and composition, Shakespeare, Bach, Jane Austen, and Tolkien teach us about Christ?—followed by a round-table Q&A about classical education and luncheon for all. Come be a student for a morning and see how pursuit of knowledge reveals the majesty of God and how the liberal arts teach us to surrender ourselves in worship. If you'd like more information, please see our blog post and the event/registration page . Magistras & Majestas May 18, 2024, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM More info Details Friday, November 10, 2023 - Saturday, November 11, 2023 How to Sing the P salms Theopolis Regional Cou rse with Paul Buckley & Brian Moats Join us for a two-day event of instruction, worship, and fellowship! Paul Buckley and Brian Moats of the Theopolis Institute will give us a vision for reclaiming Psalms as the hymnbook of the church as we explore the biblical, theological, and practical reasons for singing the Psalms. But more importantly, we will SING. We will sing A LOT! Read our write-up of this event on our blog . Brochure

Academic Calendar 2025-26 First week of classes September 8 - 12, 2025 Thanksgiving break November 24 - 28, 2025 Christmas break December 15, 2025 - January 2, 2026 Winter break February 16 - 20, 2026 Easter break March 20 - April 3, 2026 Last week of classes May 18 - 22, 2026 Academic Calendar 2024-25 First week of classes September 9 - 13, 2024 Thanksgiving break November 25 - 29, 2024 Christmas break December 16, 2024 - January 3, 2025 Winter break February 17 - 21, 2025 Easter break April 14 - 18, 2025 Last week of classes May 19 - 23, 2025 Academic Calendar 2023-24 First week of classes September 11 - 14, 2023 Thanksgiving break November 20 - 24, 2023 Christmas break December 18, 2023 - January 4, 2024 Winter break February 20 - 24, 2024 Easter break April 1 - 5, 2024 Last week of classes May 20 - 23, 2024

About Civitas We are a ministry of the Presbyterian Church of Manchester , currently offering in-person à la carte classes primarily for homeschooled h igh school students (some classes are open to younger students or adults). With teachers whose mastery is borne of their love of their disciplines, The Civitas School provides Christ-centered study toward a life of wisdom, the glory of God, and the love for His Creation and our community. Course Offerings Calendar Registration What is classical education at Civitas? A t Civitas, "classical education" reflects a commitment to traditional modes of pedagogy directed toward moral formation, knowledge and love of God, and a rich, joyful life of Christian discipleship. Towards those ends, The Civitas School offers the following means... Training of the Affections The Bible calls us to love what is lovely, to admire what is true and good. But because we are fallen creatures, this does not always come naturally to us. As educators, we recognize the need to guide our students toward the pursuit of transcendent truth, goodness, and beauty. Integration Our vision of education is one of integration between disciplines and across all aspects of life. The arts and the sciences speak to each other. Academics and spiritual life inform one another. Body and mind work in tandem, and both must be equipped and nourished. The Great Conversation We embrace the great works and great ideas of the ages. We believe that young people can appreciate the works of Plato and Beethoven, and we enable students to participate in the Great Conversation. We invite them to engage with the community of thinkers across time—from Shakespeare to Copernicus, Augustine to Van Gogh—that have shaped and formed our world. Civitas Teachers Marco Campelli holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics & Actuarial Science from Grove City College and currently works as an Actuary at Prudential specializing in Methodology, Financial Modeling, and Data Analytics. Eleanor Georges holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Certificate in Technical Writing (California State University, Long Beach). She has taught the literature of William Shakespeare for 21 years through Backyard Shakespeare in Bolton CT, and has taught thesis writing to senior high school students for the past 10 years. Marty Georges holds a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics (University of Washington, School of Engineering) and a Master’s degree in Philosophy (Biola University). He has worked for 38 years in the aerospace industry and has taught classes in Philosophical Foundations for a Christian Worldview and Integrated Math Science. Debbie Goodale holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Minor in Secondary Education and a Master’s degree in Reading and Language Arts (both Eastern Connecticut State University). She has 17 years of experience teaching middle school and high school Language Arts in local schools. Isabella Leake holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Classics and a Master of Arts in Medieval Studies (both University of Connecticut). For 7 years she developed and taught a Latin program for The Potter’s School, covering all levels of Latin from junior high to Advanced Placement. Joseph Leake holds a BA in English (University of Southern Mississippi) and an MA and PhD in Medieval Studies (University of Connecticut). He taught college composition at UConn for 8 years and has taught high school English online at The Potter’s School for 7 years. Charles Nystrom holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology (Wheaton College, IL) and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (Cornell University). He has practiced small animal medicine for 3 years (cat, dog, some exotics) and worked in numerous research and teaching assistant roles in areas such as botany, parasitology, and anatomy & physiology. John Sundet holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Theory and Composition (University of North Texas) and a Master’s degree in Arts and Religion with emphasis in Systematic Theology (Westminster Theological Seminary). Laurie Warren holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education (Chestnut Hill College) and has been teaching homeschooled students in various settings for many years, most recently high school literature and history.

Junior High Course Offerings 2025-26 Registration for academic year 2025-26 is currently open. To inquire about a class, please contact the teacher via email (click on the teacher's name below). If you would like to discuss a course or student placement over the phone, please include your phone number in your email to the teacher. Pre-Algebra (Laurie Warren ) Aims to develop confidence and independence in the concepts and skills necessary to approach Algebra successfully. Grade: 7, 8, 9 (placement test required) Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Algebra I ( Laurie Warren ) Using Elementary Algebra by Harold Jacobs, students will cover topics such as operations, square roots, graphing, linear, simultaneous and quadratic equations with plenty of practice. This is a dialect approach where illustrations as real life critical thinking problems help students understand why formulas work and how to apply them. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10 (placement test required) Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) NEW! Introduction to Literary Analysis (Debbie Goodale ) Literary analysis is taught through various skills: annotating, how to infer themes, identifying and learning how authors use literary devices to enrich meaning, character analysis, and identifying the narrative elements that make a story. These skills when practiced will help students grow in their capacity to read complex text. Socratic circles and learning how to question the text is another essential higher level reading skill. Writing will be an essential component as students learn how to support their assertions about the text through strong textual evidence. Grade: 7, 8 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Creative Writing (Debbie Goodale ) In this course, students will explore different forms of creative writing, such as poetry, memoir/narrative pieces, creative nonfiction, and journaling. Students will analyze mentor texts (the writing of published authors) as models for improving and expanding their creative writing skills. Students can expect mini-lessons and practice in creative writing skills, including word choice, voice, tone, etc. In addition, students will read various texts by poets and writers that speak to the creative writing process. Grade: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) NEW! Growth and Structure of the English Language II: English Language and Literature, Medieval to Modern (Joseph Leake ) Did you know that English boasts the oldest tradition of vernacular literature in Europe, reaching back over 1,300 years? English grammar and vocabulary have changed and developed over time to make, not only the language we know today, but also that of our greatest literary and historical monuments—from the Old English of the first Bible-translations and the Middle English of The Canterbury Tales to the Renaissance English of Shakespeare, from the neoclassical style of Jane Austen and the Declaration of Independence to the use of American dialect in the novels of Mark Twain. Students powerfully strengthen their understanding and use of English by studying the history of both the language and its literature together. This approach allows students to put down deep roots in English: instead of starting from abstract principles of grammar and usage and then applying those principles, students begin organically with the language and literature itself; they go “inside” the language and learn from its literary Masters, acquiring along the way enhanced vocabulary, greater skill in composition, and increased literary comprehension. Come find out why some characters say “thou” but others say “you” in Shakespeare’s plays, what the witches in Macbeth have to do with the dragon in Beowulf, why saying that Sir Lancelot “wept with heavy cheer” is not as contradictory as it looks, what the real difference is between “sit” and “set,” “lie” and “lay”; and much more! Grades: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 Meets once a week (see Schedule ) OTHER COURSES IN DEVELOPMENT If you would like to see us offer a particular course or discipline in future semesters, please let us know!

Adult Course Offerings 2025-26 Registration for academic year 2025-26 is currently open. To inquire about a class, please contact the teacher via email (click on the teacher's name below). If you would like to discuss a course or student placement over the phone, please include your phone number in your email to the teacher. NEW! Integrated Biology ( Charles Nystrom ) Intended to be a companion course to the core Biology course, or to serve as a stand alone course for the motivated student or curious life-long learner. Using that week’s core biology material as a starting point, we will explore anything and everything biology touches: graduate fields of study, careers, industries; theology, philosophy, poetry, art; medicine, practical life, whimsy. We will begin with review of optional homework/readings, move into group discussion/activity, and end with a time of informal lecture/dialogue that is open to the public. Optional grading and adjustably rigorous assignments can be discussed on an individual basis, or the class can be taken without a grade in mind and simply to explore biology. Parents are welcome to participate as they desire. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests; written and oral assignments optional Pre-requisites: currently taking or have taken high school biology; or strong interest in biology Meets once a week in the evening (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 (no cost to students of Introductory Biology course) NEW! The World of Faërie: Fairy Tales, Faith, and Enchantment (Joseph Leake ) G.K. Chesterton once described a time when, in search of something to read, he found himself looking drearily through a stack of dreary-sounding modern novels, when all of a sudden he found one that made him cry out for joy: “Here at least, here at last, one could find a little common sense!” he thought. The book he had found was a copy of Grimms’ Fairy Tales . C.S. Lewis once observed that fairy tales were an essential part of preparing children for the trials and tribulations of the modern world, reasoning “Since it so likely that they will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage.” And J.R.R. Tolkien wrote that fairy tales contain an image of the Gospel, “giving a fleeting glimpse of Joy, Joy beyond the walls of the world, poignant as grief.” What did Tolkien mean by this? And how could Chesterton and Lewis claim that fairy tales were relevant—even vital—in the modern, “real” world? We’ll explore the answers to these questions (and more!) in this course, as we delve into the origins, symbolism, and artistry of the fairy tale tradition. We’ll examine the roots of fairy tales in ancient myth and trace out the influence of fairy tales on modern fantasy and film; discover the origins of the word “fairy” itself; survey the great 19th-century effort to rescue fairy tales from oblivion; read and discuss the sometimes-surprising original versions of well-known stories such as Sleeping Beauty and The Little Mermaid , as well as less-well-known tales such as Soria Moria Castle , Childe Rowland , and The Battle of the Birds ; examine the writings of authors such as Chesterton, Lewis, and Tolkien on the value and meaning of fairy tales for Christians; and ultimately, consider why it is that fairy tales have always delighted readers and filled them with wonder—and continue to do so today. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 + adult No tests or written assignments Meets once a week in the evening for 14 weeks (see Schedule ) Special cost: $100 Music: Meaning and Materials (John Sundet ) Introduction to music from the perspective of language and participation. Covers physics and philosophy of music, notation, and theory, stressing concrete examples and active involvement with voice—the primary musical instrument given to each of us. Grade : 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Prior musical experience welcome but not needed. Meets once a week (see Schedule ) Bible Overview (John Sundet ) A guided journey through the full text of the Bible designed to promote biblical literacy and to establish the basis for a lifetime of reflection and re-engagement with the text. A prominent goal is to assure that no book or chapter remains obscure or unrelated to the redemptive narrative. Grade: 9, 10, 11, 12 (also open to adult students ) Meets twice weekly (see Schedule ) OTHER COURSES IN DEVELOPMENT If you would like to see us offer a particular course or discipline in future semesters, please let us know!

Equip your child for a lifetime of learning and discipleship with classes at The Civitas School, a classical Christian school where students and teachers seek truth, goodness, and beauty. What is Civitas? Located in Manchester, Connecticut, the Civitas School is a classical school initiative growing out of and cultivating love of wisdom , community , Christ , and the Church . We desire to come alongside homeschool families, offering top-notch instructio n for junior high and high school students in a warm , collegial , Christ-centered learning environment. Our hallmarks are: Eruditio “teaching ” and “knowledge ” Excellence of instruction based on mastery of a discipline and the calling to share it Disciplina “learning ” and “discipleship ” Pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty to the end of knowing and serving God Civitas “community ” and “citizenship ” The imperative to serve and enrich the local community and wider world through Christian education Find out more Course Offerings Registration

Subscribe to our blog! Join our email list and receive notifications when we publish a new post. Enter your email here Subscribe Thanks for following along! Isabella Leake Jul 15 1 min Category: Civitas Events Announcing our first Teacher Open House! We're excited to invite prospective students and parents to our first Teacher Open House on Thursday evening, August 22, 2024 at the... 36 views 4 likes. Post not marked as liked 4 Joseph Leake May 12 2 min Category: Word Origins Baking bread & making stories What does baking have in common with creating a story? At first glance, they might seem unrelated activities, calling for totally... 23 views 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Joseph Leake Apr 14 2 min Category: Word Origins The delights and discoveries of etymology Did you know that squirrel means “shadow-tail” in Greek (skíouros), or that a companion originally meant someone you break bread (Latin... 19 views 2 likes. Post not marked as liked 2 Joseph Leake Mar 31 1 min Category: Festivity A Hopkins poem for Easter Sunday Today, we present for your delight a poem by Gerard Manley Hopkins, written around 1875. There is so much to like in this poem, but we... 31 views 3 likes. Post not marked as liked 3 Isabella Leake Mar 17 2 min Category: Civitas Events Announcing our Spring 2024 event... We’re excited to share that plans are afoot for our upcoming event, titled Magistras et Majestas: Education and the Glory of God, on... 92 views Post not marked as liked Joseph Leake Mar 3 3 min Category: Wisdom of the Ages Writers weigh in on the worth of old books One of the priorities of a classical education is the reading of old books. That’s not to say we never read new books, but it is to... 23 views 2 likes. Post not marked as liked 2 Isabella Leake Feb 18 2 min Category: Wisdom of the Ages Eight thought-provoking quotes about education What is the goal of education? What are the hallmarks of a specifically Christian education? And what, in its essence, is education?... 71 views 4 likes. Post not marked as liked 4 Joseph Leake Jan 21 5 min Category: Festivity The hidden link between Middle-earth & “O Come, O Come Emmanuel”: Part II “I felt a curious thrill, as if something had stirred in me, half wakened from sleep.” J.R.R. Tolkien wrote these words in recollection... 23 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Isabella Leake Jan 6 5 min Category: Festivity A musical Epiphany: “Videntes stellam” three ways One of the joys of discovering Medieval and Renaissance music is finding the same text—often a Biblical text—used over and over again by... 20 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Isabella Leake Dec 24, 2023 5 min Category: Festivity What’s so great about “The Holly & the Ivy”? Today, on the Eve of Christmas, I’d like to share some reflections on one of my favorite Christmas carols, “The Holly & the Ivy.” Over... 15 views Post not marked as liked Joseph Leake Dec 20, 2023 4 min Category: Festivity The hidden link between Middle-earth & “O Come, O Come Emmanuel”: Part I Would it surprise you to learn that J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth and the Advent hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” are cousins? The beloved... 45 views 4 likes. Post not marked as liked 4 Isabella Leake Dec 5, 2023 2 min Category: Civitas Events Weekend Psalm chanting event was a success and delight The evening of Friday, November 10 opened a rich and joyous weekend of learning, singing, and worshipping at our first Civitas-hosted... 73 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Isabella Leake Nov 19, 2023 2 min Category: Educational Philosophy Welcome to our new blog! Who are the Civitas School teachers? Why is Christian education important to them? How do they articulate the intersection of academic... 58 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1