Live Oak offers a Christian classical education beginning in the Grammar years (Junior Kindergarten to Grammar 6), proceeding through the Logic years (grades 7th-9th), and concluding in the Rhetoric years (grades 10th-12th). In the fall of 2004, a Grammar School for Kindergarten through 5th grade was opened. In 2009-10, we began to offer Jr. Kindergarten – Rhetoric I (10th grade students). Our first graduating class of Rhetoric III (12th grade) graduated in the year of 2011-2012. Our school is one of the largest private schools in Waco and one of few to offer a full 14 year program. Class sizes will remain small to foster individualized instruction and to enhance learning opportunities.
Our academic program challenges students by:
- exploration of rich texts
- chronological approach to history
- discovery of nature and its laws through hands-on experiments
- progression in the “why” of mathematics
- experiences in the fine arts
- translation of Latin, verbalization of Spanish
- the mystery of God shown in the Bible
- programs of competitive athletics
- asking layers of questions
- formulation of organized essays and sound arguments
Grammar School
The core curriculum in JK-Grammar 6 will include history, literature, grammar, reading, writing, spelling, Bible, math, and handwriting. The special classes include studies in science, Spanish or Latin, art/art history, music/music history, geography, and physical education. Chapel is held weekly on Tuesday. JK-Grammar 1 have a geographical emphasis moving from JK – habitats, continents and oceans to K – countries of the world to Grammar 1 – how we became America (with a geographical emphasis) and learning the states. Grammar 2 begins the historical cycle with Ancients through Grammar 6 in the Modern era. During the G2-G6 years students also cycle through the narrative of the Bible in canonical order – three years in the Old Testament and two years in the New Testament. Science progresses from studies of animals, plants, and the life cycle (early biology) to earth science, physics, chemistry, and life science. Our advanced math curriculum based on the Singapore approach takes our Grammar 6 students into visually being able to solve algebra problems.
Logic School
Logic students have Math, Science, Literature and Composition, Latin and History(the historical cycle starts again) everyday. Old or New Testament Studies and formal Logic classes are offered on a semester basis. Fine Arts, Athletics and study hall share integrated hours that allow for student interest to create the most effective schedule. Athletics is held last period with after-school practice for Logic I and II, while Logic III students take part in Athletics first period with before-school practice, as a part of the high school teams associated with Rhetoric school.
Rhetoric School
Rhetoric students are ready for the best part of a classical education. These blue-coated students continue with daily Math (finishing with Calculus I,II or Statistics according to aptitude) and Science (concluding with AP Chemistry, AP Biology or Environmental Science. While Rhetoric I (10th grade students) have separate daily History and Literature and Composition classes, Rhetoric II an III have capstone double period courses that integrate primary texts and literature from the covered historical time period in a discussion format that is fostered by our large oval Harkness tables. Advanced Theological Studies, Civics/Economics and Rhetoric classes are utilized to prepare RIII students for a final thesis which is required for graduation.
Encore Enrollment
Live Oak offers core or encore status to students. Families who wish to provide academic instruction in the home setting may choose to attend the elective blocks as a supplement to home education in grades 1-3. Encore students will be encouraged to take part in group activities and social events. Junior High and High School students are eligible to participate in athletics for Live Oak with compliance to the TCAL rules. Any student who is enrolled on a part time basis is expected to be receiving additional coursework under parental supervision. Part time enrollment at Live Oak does not represent a complete and thorough education.
Admissions Policy
The student body of Live Oak will be chosen through a formal application process. Written applications will be made available to all prospective students. An interview and family dialogue with each prospective student will follow to ensure the compatibility of the school’s educational philosophy for each child. Students of average to above average academic success are usually best suited to match the school’s pace. Live Oak encourages cultural and ethnic diversity. Live Oak will admit students of any race, national, or ethnic origin and will not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies or school administered programs.
