Upper School
ACADEMICS
Upper School
Upper school at Coram Deo Classical School consists of the Rhetoric phase of the Trivium. The rhetoric phase of the trivium, typically undertaken during high school years, focuses on honing students’ communication and persuasive skills. Building on the knowledge from the grammar phase and the critical thinking developed during the logic phase, this stage emphasizes the art of expressing ideas clearly and effectively. Students learn to write and speak with eloquence and conviction, mastering the use of language to inform, persuade, and inspire. They engage in debates, deliver speeches, and produce well-structured essays, all aimed at perfecting their ability to present arguments convincingly. The rhetoric phase empowers students to articulate their thoughts confidently and persuasively, preparing them for leadership roles and effective participation in society.
Highlights of Upper School at Coram Deo Classical School
Official Transcripts
Coram Deo Classical School, recognized as a non-traditional private school in Georgia, provides official transcripts that meet state standards for academic documentation. Our transcripts detail each student’s coursework, grades, and credits, reflecting a rigorous classical education. As an accredited institution, Coram Deo ensures that transcripts are professionally prepared, accepted by colleges, and fully compliant with Georgia state requirements, supporting students in their academic progression and college applications.
Classical Learning Test (CLT)
Coram Deo Classical School is also proud to offer the Classical Learning Test.
The Classical Learning Test (CLT) is an alternative standardized test designed for college admissions, similar to the SAT and ACT, but with a focus on assessing a student’s understanding of classical education principles. It emphasizes critical thinking, logic, and the great works of Western literature, philosophy, and historical thought. The test includes sections on verbal reasoning, grammar and writing, and quantitative reasoning, reflecting a broad and rigorous educational foundation.
Students and educators may choose the CLT for several reasons:
- Alignment with Classical Education: The CLT aligns closely with the curriculum of classical education schools, which often emphasize the trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric) and the great works of Western civilization.
- Critical Thinking and Reasoning: The CLT emphasizes critical thinking and reasoning skills over rote memorization, providing a more holistic measure of a student’s intellectual capabilities.
- College Admissions: Many colleges and universities, particularly those with a classical or liberal arts focus, recognize and accept the CLT as part of their admissions process.
- Educational Values: The test reflects and reinforces the educational values of schools that prioritize a classical education, offering a meaningful assessment that resonates with their teaching philosophies.
- Broad Recognition: An increasing number of higher education institutions are acknowledging the CLT, making it a viable and respected option for students aiming for college admission.
Clubs
Coram Deo is proud to offer multiple clubs during school hours to round out a students extracurricular activities. Our clubs include:
- Beta Club
- Investment Club
- Turning Point USA
AP Classes
We offer AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, and AP Physics I.
House System
The house system provides a unique way to build community, foster friendly competition, and develop leadership among students. In this system, students are placed into “houses,” which serve as smaller communities within the school that often span across grades, creating a family-like structure. Each house is named after a significant figure in Christian history, providing students with role models to emulate. Through regular house activities, including academic competitions, athletic events, service projects, and chapel gatherings, students build relationships, develop teamwork, and take on leadership roles. Older students often mentor younger ones within their houses, encouraging a spirit of discipleship and mutual support. This system not only strengthens school unity and morale but also reinforces character formation, as students learn to embody Christian virtues like integrity, humility, and respect within their house and the larger school community.
School Dances
Coram Deo Classical School also hosts a Fall Dance(in the fall semester) and a themed Semi-Formal dance(in the middle of the Spring Semester).
Eighth Grade
Eight grade at Coram Deo Classical School is the beginning of a student’s high school experience. In eighth grade, a student may choose to take electives, participate in school dances, etc.
Ninth-Twelfth Grade
Ninth to twelfth grade is a crucial time in a student’s life. Coram Deo Classical School is here to guide and increase your student’s chances of success in what they choose to pursue after high school.
Contact Us
Questions? Contact Krissy Bush, the current Vice Principal of Upper School at Coram Deo Classical School.