Castle Pines families join together to open a new school
By Julie Montoya
A new standard in education has been set with the opening of the Arma Dei Academy in Highlands Ranch. This classical, Christian school is the passion of four Douglas County families who were looking for more when it came to the education of their children.
The Vigil and Nossaman families of Castle Pines teamed with the Macdonald and Cartwright families of Highlands Ranch, and created a kindergarten through eighth grade program based on the Trivium model of learning.
The Trivium model of education focuses on biblical teachings and implements a teaching model based on grammar, logic and rhetoric. Kindergarten through fifth grade focuses on grammar studies. Sixth grade through eighth grade focuses on logic studies. And eventually the school hopes to expand into a ninth through twelfth grade program that will focus on rhetoric.
The Arma Dei Academy inspires its students to examine their own beliefs, not simply accept them. Greg Vigil, the school’s headmaster, believes that children are independent thinkers and we should “set the bar high; for the children will respond to the challenge.” The Arma Dei Academy does that through its forward approach to education, woven throughout with spirituality, and a deep love to glorify God.
The Academy curriculum is rigorous and well-rounded, creating a foundation for learning steeped in a classical model that stands the test of time. Courses include phonics, literature, composition, Latin, history, math and science, as well as formal art and music instruction. The Arma Dei Academy is a registered Association of Classical and Christian Schools (ACCS); the only one of its kind in Douglas County, and follows the classical Christian model.
Registration for the Fall 2013-2014 academic year is now open. Families who are interested in learning more are encouraged to attend the Academy’s informational meeting on February 12, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the campus in Highlands Ranch. Prospective parents can RSVP for the meeting or contact the school for information by e-mail info@armadeiacademy.com. To contact the school directly, call 303-346-4523.
The Arma Dei Academy is located at 345 Wildcat Reserve Parkway in Highlands Ranch.
