Mission & Academics Blog
From Curiosity to Character: Self-Directed Learning in Classical Education
When truth comes to us through beauty, it changes who we are. David Hicks eloquently captured this idea when he wrote, "Whenever truth comes to man by way of beauty, it necessarily transforms his character and enobles his behavior." I love this quote—you can always find it in my office. This observation speaks to the heart of what we strive for in classical education—not just the acquisition of knowledge, but the transformation of character through encounters with truth and beauty. It is a lofty goal but a valuable one.
While our curriculum provides a rigorous and unchanging foundation in the Brookfield Academy’s tradition, we recognize that students thrive when they can also pursue their individual interests. Many of our scholars find creative expression and personal growth through art, athletics, music, and drama. These activities aren't mere add-ons to "real" education; they're essential dimensions of a complete classical education that nurtures the whole person and contributes to human flourishing.
Yet what continually amazes me is how our students seek knowledge beyond both our core curriculum and these established extracurricular paths. Their natural curiosity and passion for learning manifest themselves in remarkable ways throughout our school community. Let me offer two examples.
In our Lower School, the Expert Program exemplifies this spirit of self-directed learning. Students select topics that fascinate them— they can choose whatever they want. This year, I have seen them choose interests such as hedgehogs, martial arts, germs, the Titanic, Mary Kay cosmetics, Greek mythology, and fireworks, to name just a few. They research their chosen subjects thoroughly and prepare presentations for teachers, parents, and peers. Watching these young scholars take ownership of their learning journey and share their discoveries with genuine enthusiasm is genuinely delightful. Their eyes light up as they become the authority on their chosen subject, experiencing the joy of pursuing knowledge for its own sake.
This same spirit continues in our Upper School through the International Freedom Scholars program. After completing a rigorous set of prerequisites, students embark on in-depth explorations of topics of their choice. Organ transplantation, secondary education, sound therapy, or mental health are just a few I have observed over the years. Then, their research must extend across three different nations, always examined through the lens of freedom. This demanding program requires extensive reading and research, yet students willingly choose this path.
Why do students opt into these challenging pursuits? It stems from a genuine love of learning and the special joy that comes from following one's particular interests. From our youngest learners to our graduating seniors, these young people embody what it means to be seekers of truth—one of our school's five guiding stars.
Hopefully, in these self-directed endeavors, our students discover that learning isn't just about fulfilling requirements or earning grades. It's about the transformative encounter with truth and beauty that David Hicks described—an encounter that shapes character and elevates behavior.
