Relational Education
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Understanding Grade-Band Learning at Hearthside Academy
Parents often ask: “How does learning work when students of different ages are taught together?” Grade-band learning is not a shortcut or a compromise—it is a thoughtful, time-tested educational approach rooted in Charlotte Mason’s philosophy and used successfully in small schools, tutorials, and home education communities for over a century.
What is Grade-Band Learning?
Rather than separating students strictly by grade level, we group them into developmental bands based on maturity and readiness. Students learn together in community while being guided to meet age-appropriate expectations for thinking, writing, and responsibility:
- Grades 7–8: Upper Middle Forms (Transitional Years)
- Grades 9–10: Upper Forms (Academic Formation)
- Grades 11–12: Senior Forms (Synthesis & Leadership)
Why We Use Grade Bands
Charlotte Mason believed that education is the formation of a person, not the completion of a checklist. Grade-band learning allows us to:
- Preserve intellectual dignity for every student
- Foster meaningful discussion across ages
- Reduce busywork and increase deep thinking
- Emphasize understanding over memorization
- Build a strong, family-like learning culture
- Model how learning naturally occurs in families throughout history
One Curriculum, Different Expectations
All students share the same core living books in history, literature, Scripture, and the arts. What differs is how students engage with the material. Every student is challenged appropriately—no one is rushed, and no one is held back.
Grades 7–8: Learning to Attend and Express
- Oral narration is primary
- Written narrations are short and guided
- Emphasis on attention, comprehension, and clear expression
- Teacher support is frequent and encouraging
Grades 9–10: Learning to Think and Argue
- Written narrations and structured essays
- Increased independence in reading
- Introduction to rhetoric and analysis
- Students begin leading discussions
Grades 11–12: Learning to Synthesize and Lead
- Analytical and persuasive writing
- Seminar-style discussions
- Independent research and capstone work
- Mentorship, service, and leadership roles
How Assessment Works
We believe meaningful assessment comes from knowing the student well. Standardized testing is not the primary measure of learning, though we support families who choose it.
Assessment includes:
- Oral and written narrations
- Essays and long-form writing
- Teacher conferencing (one-on-one guidance)
- Projects and presentations
- Observation of habits, diligence, and growth
What About Core Subjects Like Math & Science
While humanities are often shared, math and science are taught according to individual readiness. This ensures students receive both personalized instruction and academic rigor.
- Classical and Euclidean Geometry is taught as a humanity in community
- Placement-based general math is individualized and taught online at home
- Science follows a structured progression with labs and notebooks
- Teacher provides direct instruction and one-on-one conferencing
Benefits of Grade-Band Learning for Students
Older students learn leadership and service; younger students are inspired by mature examples. Students in this model typically:
- Develop confidence speaking with adults and peers
- Learn to articulate ideas clearly
- Grow in responsibility and independence
- Form strong relationships across ages
- Experience learning as meaningful, not mechanical
Preparing for College & Life
Grade-band learning does not limit academic outcomes. In fact, it often strengthens them. Graduates leave prepared not only for college, but for thoughtful, purposeful adulthood.
Our program:
- Meets high school credit requirements
- Produces transcript-ready documentation
- Develops strong writing and critical thinking skills
- Encourages vocational discernment and service
In a Snapshot
Grade-band learning allows us to offer a rich, intellectually prosperous education that honors each student as a person. By learning together and being challenged individually, students grow in wisdom, character, and understanding—the rightful aim of a Charlotte Mason education.
OUR SUBJECTS
Worship, Prayer & Spiritual Formation
Spiritual formation focuses on deepening our relationship with God, and all of our academic pursuits have this central focus. The practice of giving daily glory to our Creator Father is inspired by several forms of expression, such as the hearing of modern, traditional and ancient hymns, accompanied by intentional prayer, and followed by the practice of devotional and biblical readings, all which help us reflect deeply on our relationship with Christ and His sacrifice. The Christian hymn tradition, in particular, is so rich in content and nature with its deep connections to important theological ideas and liturgical practices that we place this time as first importance in all of our daily activities. Interestingly, there are more than 165 references to singing in the Word of God, from the “Song of Moses” in Exodus 15 to the “Song of Praise to God Coming in Judgement” in Psalm 96. There are references to music and musical instruments in the Bible beyond those associated with the song lyrics in the Psalms or hymn-singing in churches. Jesus mentions playing music for dancing on a flute and singing a dirge (Matthew 11:17; Luke 7:32). First Corinthians includes references to a clashing gong, a clanging cymbal (13:1), and a trumpet or bugle making an unclear sound (14:8). In other cases, we sometimes think of things as “songs” even when there is no explicit mention of singing or music (as in the “songs” of Mary and Simeon in Luke’s Gospel.
Bible & Church History Studies
Charlotte Mason believed that Scripture studies should be of first importance in our daily subjects. Here at Hearthside Academy, we spend the year reading about the history of the Church and narrating the Word of God chronologically, focusing on Old Testament twice a week and New Testament once per week, with open group discussions deepening our understanding of God’s Great Covenant and its application to our lives. All grade levels progress in reading the Bible and commentaries more independently, and are introduced to several types of Bible study helps.
History, Biography & Geography (Ancient, World, U.S.)
Mason said that history is the pivot upon which the curriculum turns. History from ancient and modern eras are so varied that it is helpful to think about it like a Van Gogh painting made entirely of little dots all put together (pointillism) rather than a line drawing. Ancient, world, and cultural histories will most often intersect by region or topic rather than strictly by chronological order. In this way, history and geography streams begin to overlap throughout the year. As we read about the various events, people, and regions of the world, a sense of the time period as a whole will emerge as a picture emerges from the many different dots within the painting.
Citizenship & Ethics
Citizenship lessons help students learn to live in a way that honors God, the people around them, and themselves. They also learn how our government and economic systems function, and how to participate as a citizen with integrity. Evaluation of character happens through conversation during Bible, History, and Literature readings. The goal is to give students something worthwhile to think about so that over the course of many years they can develop their own informed opinions while showing respect to those whose opinions differ from theirs.
Living Books, Literature & Reading
Stories from literature help us better understand humanity. C.S. Lewis’ Narnia Chronicles, for example, have spiritual and moral lessons to convey. The Christian moral vision embodied in the stories is about a great cosmic struggle between good and evil, and the need of every creature to choose between them. The vision of the stories corresponds to Lewis’ view of the world itself, which in one of his essays he described as a universe in which “there is no neutral ground” and in which “every square inch, every split second, is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan.” In Shakespeare, we see an uncovering of the wide panorama of human experience through his 39 plays. The comedies, tragedies, and histories that students read will spark imaginations with stories that transcend time and culture. Reading and speaking literature delights students as they learn timeless stories, meet a variety of characters, enrich their minds, and instruct their consciences. Students will begin by simply enjoying the hearing of literature read aloud, then speaking it aloud to the group and, finally, writing short compositions, comparisons, and commonplace entries.
Genres of study can include biblical stories, church history, historical fiction, poetry, and other works of literature. Students in all grades start reading more texts written during the time period studied along with classic pieces. Books are grouped into two distinct categories: group readings and personal readings. The literature utilized in group readings are able to span multiple ages and grade levels while stretching the student’s comprehension, vocabulary, and reading level as a whole. The literature utilized in personal readings are tailored to a specific subject, grade, comprehension, or reading level which is more or less individualized in nature.
Writing, Narration & Oratory
Narration is the act of retelling events in a student’s own words, written or orally, in sequence, and with great detail. It is a type of oral essay response to broad open-ended questioning for a recall of information regarding a literature piece. Living books are written in a way that makes narration easy as events come to life through the story and characters. Here we practice close-reading techniques in different genres and authors to aid students in the development of memory, enthusiasm, sympathy, wide outlook, and sound judgement regarding life and literature. Students become proficient in public speaking and narration through reading aloud histories, poetry, biographies, etc., which aid in the embodiment of truth in a literature piece.
English Grammar & Language Studies
Students are taught to apply grammatical knowledge to their own written narrations and compositions throughout the year. The writing content primarily focuses on what students are learning in the literature and histories presented. Advances in writing composition occur naturally and organically as students become more adept at organizing and expressing ideas beautifully and masterfully.
Music History & Composer Studies
Overall, music is an everyday part of our studies from hymns to composers. Formal lessons expose the student to a number of significant classical and contemporary music composers and compositions, providing a sense of the sounds of a particular time period studied throughout the program and introducing them to a variety of beautiful musical pieces, genres and traditions. Elie Sigemeister once said, “Music is no isolated thing. Its forms, colors, and expressive qualities do not spring from nowhere; they come out of life itself. Often, of course, they are to be enjoyed for themselves alone, in the concert hall or one’s armchair. But music also reflects human experiences, hopes, and struggles. It may give an insight into the individual and society, into the lives of those far removed from our own in time and place—an insight no other art can provide in this exact way.”
Art Appreciation & Architecture Studies
Picture study is a part of the subject of Art Appreciation. Students will study six or more works each term in order to build a relationship with each artist and the pervading styles of the period. This will enable them to recognize the artists as old friends when they happen upon them again cross-curricular, in museums, or later on in life. In Architecture, students will consider what makes for beauty in design as we explore cathedrals, museums, and cultural sites around the world in order to gain an appreciation for artistic expression throughout history.
Mathematics: A Humanities Study in Classical & Euclidean Geometry
In the Charlotte Mason tradition, mathematics is not merely a utilitarian skill or technical exercise; it is a humanity — a study that shapes the moral and intellectual imagination, awakens wonder, and reveals the order and beauty woven into creation. Mathematics belongs among the humanities because it concerns itself with universal truths, aesthetic harmony, and the language of reason that all people can share. It cultivates habits of thought that are moral as well as intellectual: honesty, attentiveness, perseverance, humility, and delight in discovery. Galileo thought of the universe in terms of mathematics, expressed in triangles, circles and other geometric shapes. There is a divine language speaking eloquently through mathematics—similar to poetry—translating truth that never changes. We see evidence of this shown in the stars and planets; ancient art and architecture; human DNA strands; all biological life including animals, insects, plants, flowers, and molecular structures, etc. From the macrocosm down to the microcosm, we see our Creator’s symphony of mathematical language being played out for all to see, if we simply begin to view it from a closer and more intentional place.
Traditionally, Charlotte Mason incorporated Euclid’s Elements into her mathematics curriculum, viewing it as a foundational text for classical geometry and logical reasoning. Her approach emphasized a gradual introduction to mathematical concepts through real-world, visual, and interactive experiences, leading to the formal, proof-based study of Euclid, which was considered the “liberal art of geometry” in her day. Mason’s philosophy of “living” math, which involved short, engaging exercises, mental math, and student-led discovery of concepts, was applied to the study of Euclid. We introduce Mason’s example for mathematical lessons by utilizing applied mathematics drills at the student’s competency level and interweave geometric fundamentals as they appear in nature, art, science and symbolism as a precursor to the more advanced study of Euclid’s Elements.
For those families desiring a more “traditional” sequence of high school Mathematics, we follow Mason’s example for mathematical lessons in Pre-Algebra and Geometry (7th grade); Algebra and Geometry (8th grade); Algebra and Geometry (9th and 10th grades); Algebra II, Trigonometry, and Precalculus (11th grade); and Precalculus or Calculus (12th grade). Students should look ahead to college mathematics requirements at schools they may want to attend or majors they desire to pursue and plan accordingly. In this traditional capacity, our students enroll in Math and Physics Courses taught by Derek Owens. They view the lectures on a computer and send and receive written and/or corrected work through email or mail.
Science: General Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics & Microbiology
The study of science is one of the primary ways students develop a relationship with the things of the universe. To accomplish this, a Mason science program consists of general science, with nature lore, natural history, and community as optional elements woven within the Advanced Nature Studies program (see below). Science is offered according to grade levels as follows: General Science (7th & 8th grades); Chemistry (9th grade); Biology (10th grade); Physics (11th grade); and Microbiology (12th grade). Students should look ahead to college science requirements at schools they may want to attend or majors they desire to pursue and plan accordingly.
Science: Advanced Nature Studies
In addition to mandatory general science courses, Charlotte Mason believed students should be immersed in the natural sciences and botanical living studies of the anatomy of plants, animals, insects, cells and microorganisms. Nature studies give us an intimate look at plant and animal behaviors to awaken wonder and interest in developing deeper relationships with God’s creation. The study of natural history allows us to examine the biodiversity of a particular area or region, looking attentively at the interconnection between plants, animals, and the environment across a landscape and throughout time. We offer Advanced Nature Studies as part of an extracurricular field arts program that takes place on Saturdays throughout the year. During this important time, we gather as community of student naturalists engaging in nature journaling, fellowship, and the arts while connecting with God’s creation.
ALVEARY+ SYLLABIRD
Frequently Asked Questions
Our program is open to middle and high school students in grades 7–12.
The 2025–’26 academic year runs September 2, 2025–June 5, 2026.
Our schedule generally includes both in-person and online learning to enhance flexibility and promote independent study routines with effective time-management skills for a student’s future success. Teachers use technology such the Syllabird digital lesson planner and group chat to enhance learning, communicate, and monitor student progress.
In-Person Studies (onsite)—Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: 9:00 am to 2:30 pm.
At-Home Studies (online)—None for the 2026-2027 school year. All studies are in-person at this time.
Note: Both in-person (onsite) and at-home (online) learning include a 45-minute lunch and short breaks as needed. Students must bring a packed lunch with snacks and beverage for onsite learning days. Purified water is available onsite.
Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) currently provides families up to $7,000 per year of tuition assistance for about 88,000 students across Arizona. These funds can be used to pay for tuition costs through ESA’s direct payment platform. Personal books and materials purchased every term are in addition to tuition and run approximately $600–$1,200 over the course of a year, which can be split into bi-annual or quarterly payments. Personal books and materials remain with the student following their academic studies.
Registration fee: $250 due at the time of registration to hold the student’s place and billed annually thereafter. This fee is non-refundable.
Student tuition & payment schedule: $5.500 per year billed in four (4) equal payments of $1,375 per quarter. Payments are aligned with the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship Award (ESA) disbursement schedule which takes place July 15 (for September 2025 start), October 15, January 15, and April 15 throughout the academic year.
Alternate Payment Plans: Families not using the ESA direct tuition payment platform may opt for 10 equal monthly payments of $550 to be setup with automatic payment, August through May. Credit card transaction fees are also passed along to the family. Payment by check or money order will not accrue additional credit-card transaction fees.
ESA Administrative Fees: $43 per quarter (approximate).
Yes! We plan an annual half-week camping trip at the end of the academic year where we can come together as students and families to celebrate our hard work and dedication while enjoying the great outdoors, fellowship by the campfire, worship, and much more!
Outdoor Field Art Day Camps: Fees and location TBD.
2026 Annual Camping Trip: Fees and location TBD.
Exams: Student exams are performed via well-thought out and articulated verbal and written narrations regarding specific subject material or a literature piece. Exams are performed at the end of each term with full results and progress reports made available.
Report Cards: Report cards are available at the end of each term or upon student withdrawal. All term report cards for grades 7-12 are reflected in Key Performance Levels 1–4.
Sampling of report card Performance Level grading system:
|
Key for Performance Levels (The goal is for all students to reach Level 3, Proficient, by the end of the year.) |
||
|
4 |
Advanced |
Student demonstrates an advanced understanding of concepts, skills and processes taught in this reporting period. Student exceeds grade-level expectations. |
|
3 |
Proficient |
Student consistently demonstrates an understanding of concepts, skills and processes taught in this reporting period. |
|
2 |
Developing |
Student is not yet consistent in demonstrating an understanding of concepts, skills, and processes taught in this reporting period. |
|
1 |
Beginning |
Student does not demonstrate an understanding of grade level concepts, skills and processes taught in this reporting period. Student is performing significantly below grade-level expectations. |
|
NA |
Not Assessed |
Not assessed this reporting period. |
Transcripts: Students begin to acquire official transcript credits upon entering high school in the 9th grade. Transcripts for grades 9–12 are available at year-end or upon student withdrawal. Credits are reflected as follows:
Seven (7) total high school credits are possible every year:
- (1.5) History & Geography;
- (1.0) English Grammar & Composition
- (.50) Literature, Reading & Oratory;
- (1.0) Mathematics;
- (1.0) Science;
- (1.0) Music, Art & Architecture; and
- (1.0) Spiritual Formation, Bible Studies & Church History
Sampling of courses and credits:
|
Architecture: World Sites |
.25 |
|
Art: Drawing/Painting |
.25 |
|
Art History: Christian Art and Artists |
.25 |
|
Bible/Church Hist.: OT/NT/Ancient Church |
.50 |
|
English: Grammar/Composition/Debate |
1.0 |
|
Geography/Cartography: World Study |
.50 |
|
History: U.S./World/Ancient |
1.0 |
|
Literature and Reading: Epic Poetry/General Poetry/Shakespeare |
.50 |
|
Mathematics: Algebra II/Geometry |
1.0 |
|
Music: Composers/Mus. Theory/Piano Inst. |
.25 |
|
Science: Biology/Botany/Nature Studies |
1.0 |
|
Spiritual Formation: Christian Theology |
.50 |
As a member of Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE), our graduates are granted participation in the annual AFHE graduation ceremony. The AFHE is a statewide organization serving the needs and protecting the rights of Arizona’s homeschooling families since 1983. AFHE is a non-profit 501(c)(3) educational, religious, and charitable corporation run by a Christian board of directors.
2025–2026 Academic Year:
- Fall Break: October 13, 2025
- Thanksgiving Break: November 24–28, 2025–December 5, 2025
- Christmas Break: December 22, 2025–January 2, 2026
- Spring Break: March 9–13, 2026
- Memorial Day: May 25, 2026
We use a learning management application called Syllabird. This application is free for families and serves as the place where assignments are posted and submitted and where feedback is given. Instructions for accessing Syllabird are in the course welcome letter provided by the instructor.
ONSITE Learning: The school will provide an assigned iPad for the student to work on while on school property.
ONLINE Learning and Zoom Gatherings: The student will need the following technology for online learning and Syllabird studies from home:
Computer: You will need a stable, reliable computer with a processor with a speed of 2 GHz or higher on one of the following operating systems: Mac OS with Mac OS 10.9 or later; Windows 11 or 10 (S Mode is not supported). We do not recommend using an iPad or other tablet for joining Zoom tutorial classes online. An inexpensive laptop or netbook would be a better solution. Please note that Chromebooks are allowed but not preferred, as they do not support certain features of Zoom and other applications.
High-Speed Internet Connection: You will also need access to high-speed Internet, preferably accessible via Ethernet cable right into your computer. Using Wi-Fi may work, but will not guarantee you the optimal use of your bandwidth. The faster your Internet, the better. We recommend using a connection with a download/upload speed of 5/2 Mbps or better.
Webcam and Headset: Some online courses with our educational partners require Zoom to operate. If you do not have a webcam built into your computer, you will need to purchase an external webcam. We also recommend using a headset for audio rather than a built-in microphone and speakers, as this will help reduce background noise heard by the entire class. Make sure to get a headset that is compatible with your device—USB, 3.5 mm, or Bluetooth.
Zoom: We use a web conferencing software called Zoom for our online classes. Zoom is free to download and easy to use. For reliable performance, after your initial download of Zoom, it is important to frequently update the app as described in the instructions below.
To Download Zoom:
- Visit zoom.us/download.
- Click to download the first option listed: Zoom Client for Meetings.
- Open and run the installer on your computer.
- At the mandatory parent-student orientation session, parents and students
will be provided with instructions and a link for joining their
particular class
To Update Zoom:
- Launch the app on your computer.
- Click on your profile image (or initials) in the corner of the app.
- Select “Check for updates” from the dropdown menu.
- Install.
Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) Funding
Hearthside Academy (formerly Solus Christus Classical Academy) is an approved vendor for the Arizona Department of Education’s Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA). Empowerment Scholarships expand educational opportunities for eligible students outside of the public school system, provides funding that can be used for a wide variety of educational expenses, and pays for private school tuition, educational therapies, tutoring, and more. Families interested in this funding are encouraged to apply directly at the Arizona Department of Education ESA homepage.
