Classical curriculum at Petra Academy forms lifelong learners
Valerie Lewis, a junior at Petra Academy in Bozeman, has already made lifelong friends at the school… notable names, such as C.S. Lewis, Aristotle, Augustine, Homer, and many others.
“The classical curriculum at the school has introduced me to the great books of Western Civilization, grounded me in the importance of logical thought, allowed me explore my creativity through theater, and encouraged me to take part in sports,” explained Valerie.
Valerie did not feel welcome at her public school, and was given the opportunity to attend Petra Academy as an ACE scholar.
“I simply would not be able to attend Petra without the ACE Scholarship program,” she explained. “This school has transformed my life and I will strive to honor the opportunity I have been given by leading a just, upright life.”
Craig Dunham, headmaster at Petra Academy, said that Valerie exemplifies the kind of students that the school’s founders had in mind when they established the school in 1995. This past year, the Pre-K to 12th school served 215 students from 135 families in the Bozeman area.
“Recognizing our need for God’s grace, our mission is to awaken love and wonder in our students by teaching them to observe with humility, think with reason, and articulate width charity for the flourishing of humanity and the renown of Jesus the Christ,” explains Mr. Dunham.
“We value our partnership with ACE Scholarships – the staff is helpful and efficient and there is no bureaucracy to get in the way of awarding scholarships,” he explained. “ACE is a game changer for families, and incredibly beneficial to our school, providing $28,000 dollars last year to help Petra families with need.”
Petra Academy offers a classical and Christian alternative to Bozeman public schools, which are considered by many to be good, explained Mr. Dunham. That said, the average ACT score of Petra graduating seniors last year was 28 – 8 points higher than the Montana state average.
For information on Petra Academy, visit www.petraacademy.com