Academics

Why Classical Education at JRA Academy

 

  • Cultivates wisdom through the great ideas of Jerusalem, Rome, and Athens
  • Trains students to think clearly, reason deeply, and communicate with eloquence
  • Strengthens the practice of virtue in thought, word, and action
  • Connects students to a rich intellectual tradition that has shaped Western civilization
  • Encourages disciplined study, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning
  • Prepares graduates to lead with integrity and purpose in any field
  • Inspires students to pursue truth, goodness, and beauty in every area of life

 

Our Values

 

1. We recognize that people need to know right from wrong to make good decisions for themselves, their families, communities, our country, and the world. Knowledge without wisdom and character is unreliable. That’s why we strive to ensure our students explore the best knowledge Western civilization has to offer in addition to it’s collective wisdom so they know how to use it to pursue the good, the true, and the beautiful.


2. America is unique in world history and is responsible for more freedom and happiness than any other country past or present. And while we don’t deny its flaws, we teach a fair and balanced view of its contributions and vices letting all the facts speak for themselves.


3. Families work hard for their money and shouldn’t have to choose between a first-class education or making a mortgage payment. We work to keep tuition at a level most families can afford without sacrificing the quality of the education our students deserve.


4. Though we’re not a religious school, we recognize the unique role Judeo-Christian values have played in developing both America and Western civilization. Accordingly, religion is supported at JRA for our families of all faiths while respecting families with uncertain or no faith. For interested families, we offer an elective hour a week of Bible/Torah study, or whatever faith your family follows, during the school day or after with your clergy of choice. Ultimately, we’re neither religious nor secular, we’re Classical.


5. The team makes the magic happen in exceptional schools. At JRA, the role of administration is to provide resources and guidance to allow faculty to meet our mission and excel professionally. We strive to be the best school to work for in Minnesota.
 

Prioritizing Human‐Centered Learning at JRA Academy

 
Rooted in time‐tested methods: Students learn through rich literature, intentional instruction, and meaningful conversation.


Designed for deep focus: Our classrooms cultivate attention, reflection, and sustained engagement of ideas for growing minds.


Built on real relationships: Teachers are exemplary leaders, guides, and mentors; students interact face‐to‐face, not through screens.


Grounded in tactile learning: Books, handwriting, recitation, and discussion form the core of daily academic life.


Aligned with current research: Studies continue to affirm that environments emphasizing attention and teacher‐led instruction support stronger learning outcomes.


Intentional and straightforward: We choose tools that strengthen understanding and character – creating a calm, orderly space where students can think clearly and grow in wisdom.