Young adults in high school are very concerned with their appearance, both physically and socially. Therefore, we capitalize on this by improving their learned debate skills by teaching them to be persuasive. Through the Trivium, students are taught facts early, then taught to think logically and finally, trained to be persuasive by articulating arguments based in facts and logic Rhetoric School — Grades 9–12 The Rhetoric School completes the classical educational progression by teaching students to think deeply, communicate clearly, reason persuasively, and articulate truth with wisdom and conviction. Students move beyond acquiring knowledge and analyzing ideas to developing the ability to defend their beliefs, communicate effectively, and engage the world as thoughtful Christian leaders. 

1. English & Literature — Students study significant works of classical, Christian, American, and British literature while developing advanced skills in grammar, composition, literary analysis, research, and persuasive writing. Students learn to articulate ideas with clarity, beauty, logic, and eloquence through essays, research papers, speeches, and presentations. 

2. Bible & Theology — Students progress through a systematic study of Scripture while examining biblical doctrine, Christian worldview, apologetics, ethics, and the relationship between faith and culture. Students are challenged to know what they believe, understand why they believe it, and communicate their beliefs thoughtfully and respectfully. 

3. History — Students study Western civilization, American history, world history, government, and economics through a chronological and classical framework. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding the ideas, people, events, movements, and philosophies that have shaped civilizations and the modern world. 

4. Logic & Critical Thinking — Students develop formal and informal reasoning skills and learn to recognize sound and unsound arguments. Through the study of logic, students learn to analyze claims, evaluate evidence, identify fallacies, construct arguments, and defend conclusions using reason and sound judgment.

5. Rhetoric — The defining discipline of the Rhetoric School teaches students to communicate truth beautifully, persuasively, and appropriately. Students practice public speaking, debate, persuasive writing, presentations, and formal argumentation while learning how to address an audience with confidence, wisdom, and integrity. 

6. Mathematics — Students continue through advanced mathematics according to their individual progression, developing quantitative reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Courses may include Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Statistics, and other advanced mathematics offerings. 

7. Science — Students study the natural world through rigorous laboratory and inquiry-based courses while considering scientific knowledge within a Christian worldview. Courses may include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, and advanced science offerings. Students learn to observe carefully, evaluate evidence, conduct experiments, and communicate scientific conclusions. 

8. World Languages — Students develop proficiency in a foreign language through the study of vocabulary, grammar, conversation, reading, writing, and culture. Advanced students may progress into upper-level language courses, including AP-level study where available.

9. Fine Arts & Music — Students are encouraged to cultivate beauty, creativity, discipline, and cultural understanding through music and the visual and performing arts. Opportunities may include art, music, choir, theater, and other artistic disciplines. 

10. Physical Education & Athletics — Students develop physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Athletics and physical education are viewed as opportunities to develop character and stewardship of the body.

11. Leadership & Christian Character — Students are given opportunities to develop leadership skills, responsibility, service, and personal integrity. The Rhetoric School seeks to prepare young men and women to lead with humility, courage, wisdom, and a commitment to serving others. 

12. Senior Capstone & Preparation for College and Life — As students approach graduation, they are challenged to synthesize the knowledge and skills developed throughout their classical education. Through advanced research, presentations, public speaking, service, and college preparation, students demonstrate their ability to think independently, communicate effectively, and apply their education to the responsibilities of adulthood. The Goal of the Rhetoric School The ultimate goal of the Rhetoric School is not simply to prepare students for college, but to prepare them for life. A Veritas graduate should be able to pursue truth, recognize goodness, appreciate beauty, reason carefully, speak persuasively, and live courageously from a distinctly Christian worldview. The Rhetoric School therefore seeks to graduate students who are wise thinkers, articulate communicators, faithful Christians, and confident leaders prepared to influence their families, communities, professions, and the world for generations to come..