Citadel Life
The House System, known in CLASSICAL lingo as “Citadel Life,” aims to create a sense of belonging, discipline, and camaraderie among students.
In 2025, Cincinnati Classical Academy will be introducing its “house system” for grades 7-9, and eventually for the entire Upper School (grades 7-12). We believe that implementing a House System, similar to the esteemed traditions found in schools across Europe and Australia, can enhance our Upper School’s sense of community, promote character development, and create a dynamic platform for intramural competition and collaboration.
House System History
The House System, with its rich history and evolving purpose, remains a dynamic and cherished tradition in education, enriching the lives of students and contributing to the vibrant culture of educational institutions worldwide.
The House System, known in CLASSICAL lingo as “Citadel Life,” aims to create a sense of belonging, discipline, and camaraderie among students. Each citadel will have its own provost responsible for students’ well-being, academics, and discipline. Students will compete in various citadel events, including sports, academics, and arts.
Citadel Life
Our CLASSICAL house system is composed of four citadels, each named after renowned fortress cities in Europe, also called “SentinelCities,” watched over by sentinels who guarded the fortress cities, protecting them from invading barbarians. Each citadel, led by a faculty provost, will have its own unique identity and will develop its own traditions.
Citadel Carcassonne
Carcassonne, France
Motto: “Virtus in Unitate” (Strength in Unity)
Mascot: The Brave Lion
Symbol: A lion rampant with fasces
Nickname for Members: Carkies
Citadel York
York, England
Motto: “Veritas Vincit Omnia” (Truth Conquers All)
Mascot: The Unbridled Stallion
Symbol: A stallion rearing up on its haunches
Nickname for Members: Yorkies
Citadel Siena
Siena, Italy
Motto:“Ad Astra Per Sapientiam” (To the Stars Through Wisdom)
Mascot: The Wise Owl
Symbol: An open book with a shining star above it
Nickname for Members: Senesis
Citadel Valletta
Valletta, Malta
Motto:“Sapientia et Virtus” (Wisdom and Virtue)
Mascot: The Spirited Phoenix
Symbol: A phoenix rising from flames
Nickname for Members: Letties
Terminology
Citadel: a fortress typically located in a city, designed to protect the inhabitants and defend the area from enemy attacks. The term “citadel” is derived from the Italian word cittadella, which means “little city.”
Provost: title used in various contexts, sometimes referring to a person in charge of a castle, town, or educational institution. In CLASSICAL lingo, the provost is the faculty member assigned to lead one of our four citadels.
Citadel Activities
Citadel Life will provide numerous opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Intramural sports competitions
- Academic challenges and debates
- Creative arts showcases
- Community service projects
- Leadership development initiatives
- Citadel outings and field trips
- Regular citadel meetings and assemblies
Competition, Culture, and Identity
To encourage teamwork, friendly rivalry, and healthy competition, the Upper School will hold annual inter-citadel competitions in areas such as athletics, service, academics, and the arts. Points earned by each house will contribute to the Citadel Cup, awarded annually to the most successful citadel.
Students will be encouraged to actively contribute to the development of their citadel culture and identity. Each citadel will create its own traditions, chants, and cheers, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among members.