Building CLASSICAL Culture and Camaraderie

As we embark on our third year as a school, now with grades K-8, there is a palpable sense of excitement in the air. The progress we’ve made together is remarkable, and we are looking forward to seeing our students flourish. This new school year marks not only the continuation of our educational odyssey but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter: the preparation for our first high school class as we expand toward becoming a full-fledged K-12 school on two permanent campuses.

 

This growth comes with new initiatives that we believe will enhance the CLASSICAL experience for our students. One such initiative is the introduction of our “Citadel System,” a tradition we are excited to launch later this year with a special sorting ceremony for middle school students.

 

Starting in 2025, the Citadel system will officially be in place for grades 7-9 and will gradually encompass the entire Upper School, grades 7-12. The Citadel system is modeled after the time-honored house systems found in esteemed schools across Europe and Australia. This system is designed to foster a stronger sense of community, encourage character development, and provide a dynamic platform for inter-house competition and collaboration.

 

In our version, known as “Citadel Life,” students will be assigned to one of four citadels, each named after a renowned fortress city in Europe. These citadels will serve as a “home” for the students throughout their time at Cincinnati Classical Academy’s Upper School, offering them a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Each citadel will be led by a faculty provost, who will mentor and guide the students, overseeing their well-being, academics, and character development.

 

Citadel Life will bring a wealth of opportunities for our students to engage in a variety of activities ranging from intramural sports competitions and academic challenges to creative arts showcases and community service projects. We will also host inter-citadel competitions, with students vying for the prestigious Citadel Cup in areas such as athletics, service, academics, and the arts.

 

We believe that Citadel Life will not only enhance school spirit but also encourage positive behavior, character development, and leadership among our students. It is designed to create a vibrant and supportive school environment where every student can thrive, contribute, and take pride in their citadel identity.

 

As we continue to build on the strong foundation of Cincinnati Classical Academy, we look forward to seeing the many ways in which our students will grow and excel through Citadel Life. We are excited to share more details with you in the coming months and can’t wait to see the positive impact this initiative will have on the CLASSICAL community.

 

Torches Up!