The Dean's List

The Habersham School

The Dean's List is a podcast created by The Habersham School to help parents feel better connected to classical education and better prepared as parents.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Raising Children, Raising Readers Part TWO

    Host Clay Hining and guest Jacquie Miller explore how parents can fill the home with excellent, nourishing books and help children grow into thoughtful readers. Jacquie explains narration as a practice in attention, comprehension, and active listening. She then offers age-aware guidance for using it without turning reading into a chore. content  type: interview primary  goal: educational guest  name: Jacquie Miller keywords: classical Christian education, reading aloud, living books, Charlotte Mason, narration, active listening, parenting, children's literature, reading comprehension Chapters: 00:00 Bonus Episode on Reading 06:00 Building your Home Library 14:00 Rereading Novels 17:00 Parent Responsibilities  20:01 How to find excellent literature 23:42 The Practice of Narration 34:56 Narrating in the Grammar Stage 43:00 Narrating in the Logic Stage 46:03 Teenagers, ideas, and the great conversation 54:18 Shared experiences, trust, and lasting conversations 57:25 Closing reflections, prayer, and credits Resources: The Wingfeather Saga - https://store.rabbitroom.com/collections/the-wingfeather-saga?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20119658610&gbraid=0AAAAAoiz8wYZ8SEQfgYZ0KWXF79IIQb2W&gclid=CjwKCAiAqabXBhBUEiwAw_SQpYyLT1eEtMaXYJM00sJsjv8N169l-pEn5wrwB2xwh0C3bLdO4WjkBBoCEgEQAvD_BwE  Ambleside Online - https://www.amblesideonline.org/  Honey for a Child’s Heart - https://www.zondervan.com/p/honey-for-a-childs-heart/  Books Children Love - https://www.crossway.org/books/books-children-love-tpb/?srsltid=AYCX9vKT3VHeMah64K_fcOJoicBdssTE5urh7LZXVmh9woeQJYFRbDiE  Let the Authors Speak - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0964068117?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback  Mortimer Adler list Great Books of the Western World - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Books_of_the_Western_World  Comments/Questions: Please reach out to us podcast@thehabershamschool.org

  2. 2d ago

    Raising Children, Raising Readers Part One

    Former Habersham School parent, teacher, Academic Dean, and Interim Head Jacquie Miller joins host Clay Hining to explain how families can build a lasting culture of reading. They discuss Mortimer Adler’s three kinds of reading, how to approach difficult books, and practical ways to model reading, manage screens, and make family reading enjoyable without turning it into a source of guilt.  content  type: interview primary  goal: educational guest name: Jacquie Miller keywords: family reading, classical Christian education, reading habits, Mortimer Adler, How to Read a Book, Charlotte Mason, parenting, screen time, great books, reading aloud key  topics: Analytical reading means first listening carefully to an author’s ideas, then evaluating and responding rather than beginning with a critical stance. Parents cultivate readers by modeling the habit and making books visible in everyday family life. Practical ways to establish reading time include setting children up to focus, creating a calm atmosphere, and making reading feel special and enjoyable. Families can set intentional, shared boundaries around screens so reading and face-to-face time have room to grow. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dean’s List 00:29 Intro Jacquie Miller and today’s topic 06:00 What are you reading? 16:00 Habersham Distinctives 18:55 Family Reading Night  21:45 Three types of reading 26:24 Reading for understanding 34:18 Good guilt, bad guilt, and beginning where you are 38:40 How can parents model reading? 48:07 Creating joyful regular family reading time 51:37 Parents define what is normal at home 54:12 Closing prayer and a preview of the bonus episode Resources: Jared Seff Art - https://jaredseff.com/ Mariana Langley Art - https://marianalangley.com/ Ambleside Online and curriculum list of great books - https://www.amblesideonline.org/ How to Read a Book by Mortimer Adler - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=how+to+read+a+book+by+mortimer+adler&adgrpid=186027543803&hvadid=793130451731&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9011285&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=14003231116176743380--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14003231116176743380&hvtargid=kwd-331782247194&hydadcr=10151_13856065_2447023&mcid=bfab0dabe88c377ba11c09b61011c186&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_5ungc5srp5_e  On Reading Well by Karen Swallow Prior - https://www.amazon.com/Reading-Well-Prior/dp/1587435837/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34MS81D5T8451&keywords=karen+swallow+prior+on+reading+well&qid=1692292730&sprefix=karen+swallow+prior+on+reading+wel%2Caps%2C203&sr=8-1 Books mentioned: Consider This… by Karen Glass The Road by Cormac McCarthy The Divine Comedy by Dante The Philosophy of Hebrew Scripture by Hazoni Tolstoy short fiction The End of Drought by Ruth Pitter Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky The Two Best Novels Ever Written by Peter Kreeft  Lord of the Rings by JRR Tolkien Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton The Original Homeschooling Series by Charlotte Mason

  3. Oct 13

    Can Classical Christian Students Go To College?

    Today we explore how The Habersham School interacts with the college guidance process. Our scope of education is lofty, going far beyond only preparation for college. We focus on character formation, virtue, and understanding God's design for students. Amanda Ryan shares insights on guiding students through college decisions, emphasizing the importance of identity in Christ and holistic development. Keywords:  classical Christian education, college guidance, character formation, virtue, student development, college acceptance, faith-based education, college road trip, student leadership, college life key  topics:  The mission of Habersham School and its focus on virtue and character The importance of viewing education as Christian discipleship Guidance process for college-bound students and the role of parents The significance of understanding vocation versus occupation College acceptance and what colleges look for in applicants The college road trip and campus visits as part of student exploration The impact of community involvement and leadership in college life Addressing parental fears and supporting students through transitions sound bites:  "Education is a pathway of Christian discipleship" "Colleges care about character and virtue" "Helping students lean into who God has made them to be" Chapters: 00:00 Can Classical Christian Students go to college? 06:20 Lofty Goals for Education 08:45 College Pennants on the Wall 12:01 Guidance process for college-bound students 14:36 Understanding Vocation and Occupation 21:15 Parent Roles in College Decisions 25:59 COLLEGE ROAD TRIP! 29:08 Lucy and Hamilton class of 2024 37:02 How did you pick your school and major? 40:23 Connections around Campus 49:21 Advice for students and parents 54:00 Reflections   56:07 Closing prayer and credits Resources: Learn more about The Habersham SchoolThe University of Georgia - https://www.uga.edu/ RUF at UGA - https://www.uga.ruf.org/ Emmy Squared - https://www.emmysquaredpizza.com/location/athens-ga/ Samford University - https://www.samford.edu/ SOAC - https://samford.presence.io/organization/samford-outdoor-adventure-club Whiskey Foxtrot - https://www.whiskeyfoxtrotbham.com/ Comments or Questions: podcast@thehabershamschool.org Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review and please subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

  4. Sep 22

    Liturgy - the Work of the People

    We explore the significance of liturgy in classical Christian education, featuring insights from Dr. Preston Atwood on how daily rhythms of scripture, prayer, and song shape students' hearts and minds. Discover practical ways to incorporate meaningful liturgy into school and family routines to reorder affections, foster deeper faith, connect to meaningful community, and build richer prayer lives for our students.  content  type: Interview primary  goal: Educational keywords: liturgy, Christian education, prayer, scripture, school routines, faith formation, Christian songs, Psalms, family prayer, spiritual habits, parenting, worship at home  key  topics: Definition and importance of liturgy in Christian education How liturgy shapes students' affections and loves over time The significance of traditional hymns and Psalms Practical ways for families to incorporate liturgy at home takeaways: Liturgy is the work of the people, shaping hearts through repeated practices. Consistent liturgical habits embed Christian virtues and biblical truths. Old hymns and Psalms carry deep theological and artistic value. Family routines can incorporate scripture, prayer, and song easily. Participating in historic Christian liturgy connects us to a larger tradition. sound bites: "Liturgy embodies truth and beauty in artistic form." "The Psalms evoke the full range of human emotion." "Start small and develop an appetite for liturgy." Chapters: 00:00 Daily Habit of Hearing the Good News 01:33 Welcome to The Dean’s List 4:30 Alums Missing Liturgy 6:45 What is Liturgy? What are the hopes of practicing liturgy? 10:55 Reciting Scripture and Reciting Prayers 13:39 Personal Preferences and Church Hymns  15:10 Cantate Domino - a liturgical songbook for Classical Christian Schools 17:49 Compiling Cantate Domino 19:05 The Significance of the Psalms in Christian Worship 21:45 Collected Prayers of the Saints 23:35 Exordiums and Assembly Sayings 27:05 Parents Incorporating Worship at Home 31:51 Reflecting on Liturgy and the Conversation with Dr. Atwood 38:55 Closing Prayer 39:30 Ending Credits Resources: Dr. Preston Atwood, Head of School https://www.wamemphis.com/Cantate Domino - https://hymnworks.com/product/cantate/ Every Moment Holy - https://www.everymomentholy.com/ Learn more about The Habersham SchoolComments or Questions: podcast@thehabershamschool.org Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review and please subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Guest Biography: Preston Atwood is in his third year as the head of school at Westminster Academy. He earned his PhD and MA in Classical & Ancient Near Eastern Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a ThM and MDiv at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a BA in Humanities at Scarborough College. Dr. Atwood is the author of two books (Cantate Domino: A Liturgical Songbook for Classical Christian Schools and Translating a Translation) and several articles and book chapters. He is also a solo piano composer.

  5. Sep 1

    Why Latin Isn't Dead (and Why Your Kids Should Learn It)

    Why do we still study a "dead" language? In this episode, host Clay Hining sits down with Sarah Traut from The Habersham School to unpack the lasting value of Latin education. Far from an academic artifact, Latin serves as a master key to Western civilization, language mechanics, and critical thinking. Tune in to discover how engaging with classical texts builds disciplined reasoning, rich cultural literacy, and a deeper connection to the modern world. content type: Interview primary goal: Educational keywords: Latin education, Western civilization, classical studies, language learning, The Habersham School, cultural literacy, classical languages, education philosophy key topics: The historical importance of Latin in education The benefits of learning Latin for understanding Western civilization The role of Latin in developing language and reasoning skills The cultural and historical insights gained through Latin study The evolution of language education and the place of Latin today takeaways: Studying Latin provides deep insights into Western civilization and its history. Latin enhances understanding of modern languages and improves cognitive skills. Learning Latin helps students engage with classical texts and ideas directly. The study of Latin fosters a precise and disciplined approach to language and thought. Latin education connects students with the cultural and historical roots of Western society. guest name: Sarah Traut sound bites: "Latin is a key to understanding Western civilization." "Knowing Latin gives you a deeper understanding of the world." "Latin connects us to the great authors and ideas of the past." Chapters: 00:00 Why study Latin? 02:00 Pros and Cons about Latin and modern languages 02:31 Sarah Trout's educational background and role at Habersham 03:40 Go DAWGS 04:32 Lead Teacher and Schedule Maker 05:30 Why Our Family Chose Habersham 07:10 What is Something that Disappeared from Classrooms? 11:00 Paper and Pencils, Handwriting, Humanities, and Latin at THS 13:20 Seeing Latin in television and on vacation 15:22 Latin in European culture and architecture 17:00 Latin as a tool for understanding the world and oneself 18:20 Latin on the US Dollar Bill written by Virgil 20:24 Differences in Modern Day Language Programs and Latin Programs 23:13 Early Latin education builds curiosity 24:48 Who do you want your child conversing with? 27:42 The importance of reading Latin texts in original language 28:51 Latin is an instrument that aims to the good 30:35 The Portrait of a Graduate 32:00 Latin as a framework for precise thinking, syntax and logic 34:02 Byproducts of Latin study: language skills and cognitive benefits 37:40 Parents encouraging perseverance in Latin learning 41:12 The enduring value and fun of Latin education 42:07 Closing prayer 42:35 Credits and Next Topic Resources: Learn more about The Habersham SchoolComments or Questions: podcast@thehabershamschool.orgEnjoyed this episode? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

  6. Aug 7

    A Timeless Choice: Classical Christian Education

    In this episode, we explore the essence of classical Christian education through a conversation with Howe Whitman, founder of The Wilberforce School, and insights from host Clay Hining and co-host Brent Beaumont of The Habersham School. Discover why this timeless approach to education is vital for nurturing well-rounded, virtuous individuals. content type: Interview primary goal: Educational keywords: classical education, Christian education, homeschooling, character development, timeless curriculum, education trends, parenting, school partnership key topics: The core principles of classical Christian education The importance of time-tested methods and materials The role of education in restoring God's image in students The contrast between trend-based and tradition-based education Practical ways parents can partner in education at home guest name: Howe Whitman sound bites: "Our students are image bearers of God." "Classical education is time-tested learning." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:08 Summer Adventures and Reflection 05:16 Preparing for the School Year 07:23 Big Questions 09:02 The Mission of The Habersham School 10:28 Restoring the Image of God in Students 12:30 College Pathways for Classical Students 13:39 The Value of a Classical Curriculum 17:19 Introducing Howe Whitman 18:39 Music and Personal Preferences 22:49 Howe's Educational Background and Journey 24:58 The Founding of The Wilberforce School 27:38 The Need for Integration of Faith and Education 29:30 The Impact of Classical Education on Character 33:48 The Value of the Great Books and Classics 36:42 The Danger of Chronological Snobbery 38:45 Why Parents Should Choose Classical Christian Education 43:24 The Role of Technology and AI in Education 44:18 Practical Advice for Parents in the New School Year 48:23 The Power of Reading Aloud with Children 49:54 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Visit 51:41 Reflections on Classical Education and Parenting 53:20 Closing Prayer by Thomas Aquinas resources: The Wilberforce School https://wilberforceschool.org/  The Habersham School https://thehabershamschool.org/  Andy Crouch - The Three Callings of a Christian https://andy-crouch.com/extras/the_three_callings  Wendell Berry - Why I am Not Going to Buy a Computer https://classes.matthewjbrown.net/teaching-files/philtech/berry-computer.pdf Justin Earley - Habits of the Household https://habitsofthehousehold.com/  Justin Earley - Hang Ten Movement https://www.hangtenmovement.com/ Comments or questions podcast@thehabershamschool.org

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About

The Dean's List is a podcast created by The Habersham School to help parents feel better connected to classical education and better prepared as parents.

Information

  • Creator
    The Habersham School
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Habersham School
  • Show Website
    The Dean's List

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