Anchored by the Classic Learning Test

Classic Learning Test

Anchored is published by the Classic Learning Test. Hosted by CLT leadership, including our CEO Jeremy Tate, Anchored features conversations with leading thinkers on issues at the intersection of education and culture. New discussions are released every Thursday. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.

  1. 6D AGO

    Teaching Latin and Greek as Living Languages with Guillermo Dillon - Anchored Podcast #education

    https://www.polisjerusalem.org/ https://www.polisjerusalem.org/resource/unus-duo-tres-latine-loquamur-per-scaenas-et-imagines/ What if we’ve been teaching Latin and Greek all wrong? In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren Schwab sits down with Guillermo Dillon, Senior Consultant in the U.S. for the Polis Institute, to discuss why the future of Latin and Ancient Greek depends on something bigger than textbooks, but on our understanding of why these languages must be kept alive. Guillermo makes the case that Greek and Latin should not be treated as “dead languages” or mere tools for boosting test scores, but as living gateways into the intellectual tradition of the West—the "Republic of Letters", as the American Founding Fathers referred to it. From spoken Latin and immersive pedagogy to the growing demand for trained classical language teachers, this conversation explores what it would look like to teach ancient languages as languages once again. Be sure to check out Guillermo Dillon’s forthcoming book, a practical teacher’s guide designed to help educators teach "Unus, Duo, Tres" using a communicative, immersive Latin method. This resource is built specifically to help schools and teachers bring spoken Latin into the classroom with confidence. Learn more about Guillermo and the Polis Institute here: [https://www.polisjerusalem.org/ https://www.polisjerusalem.org/resource/unus-duo-tres-latine-loquamur-per-scaenas-et-imagines/ Timestamps 00:40 – Introduction & Guest Background 02:54 – Guillermo’s Educational Journey 05:16 – Growing Up Bilingual & Learning Languages 07:12 – Discovering Spoken Latin 10:50 – Why Learn Latin and Greek? 16:56 – Why Speaking Latin Matters 17:01 – The POLIS Institute & Its Mission 19:56 – The Classical Education Teacher Shortage 25:51 – Training Teachers, Not Just Buying Curriculum 30:25 – Advice for Schools Starting Latin Programs 34:30 – Guillermo’s New Book & *Unus, Duo, Tres* 38:35 – Teacher Success Stories 40:47 – A Book That Changed Guillermo’s Life: *Antigone* 43:38 – Final Thoughts & Closing #AnchoredPodcast #ClassicLearningTest #Latin #AncientGreek #ClassicalEducation #Humanities #GreatBooks #POLISInstitute #LiberalArts #TeacherTraining

    44 min

  2. APR 28

    Anchored Podcast Special Edition: Ben Sasse and Keith Nix #anchoredpodcast #clt #education

    Most people accept death as the ultimate loss—Ben Sasse embraces it with humor, hope, and a profound faith that changes how we see life, death, and education. In this deeply personal yet inspiring episode, one of America's most eloquent voices shares how a terminal diagnosis sharpened his moral clarity and deepened his understanding of what truly matters. Ben Sasse, a former senator, university president, and thoughtful advocate for classical Christian education, opens up about confronting mortality with a rare combination of honesty, humor, and faith. He recounts the moments that have shaped his view on life’s purpose, from reading old books at Oxford to serving in the U.S. Senate. You’ll discover how his fight with cancer has transformed his approach to education—focusing on cultivating virtue, love, and friendship rather than mere career success. Also joining Ben Sasse and Jeremy Tate in the conversation is Keith Nix, who has served as the Head of School at Veritas School in Richmond, VA, since 2010. We break down: The importance of reading the Great Books to gain perspective beyond our moment How classical Christian education aims to reorder our affections and nurture true friendship The vital role of intergenerational engagement in building resilient communities The radical significance of the Sabbath in cultivating gratitude and humility Ben shares moving stories about friendship, faith, and the hope that sustains him through suffering.  His candid reflections on mortality challenge us to make what time we have count—by loving our neighbor, pursuing truth, and living with eternal hope. This episode is perfect for educators, parents, and anyone wrestling with life’s biggest questions—especially in a culture fixated on outcomes and success. If you believe education is about forming humans who love goodness and beauty, you won’t want to miss this powerful conversation. 00:00 Intro  01:08 A Vision for Education   03:11 Oxford & the Power of Small Seminars   06:37 Friendship and the Good Life   08:57 Family, Education, and Moving for Values   13:15 From Public School to Classical Christian Education   16:19 The Art of Rhetoric & Great Speakers   20:12 Influences of Great Orators   23:14 A Father’s Discipline & Coaching   24:42 Challenges in Classical Christian Education   25:57 Core Values & Future of the Tradition   28:39 The Telos Debate (How Do You Say It?)   34:37 Education Beyond Job Training   35:30 Rethinking the Factory Model of Schooling   37:45 Family & Intergenerational Life   38:21 Friendship, Community, and Education   40:00 Social Media & Peer Segregation   42:10 Hands-On & Artistic Learning   45:10 Maturation, Responsibility, and Service   46:18 Over-Consumption & the Search for Purpose   47:18 Music, Math, and the Language of Heaven   48:48 Seminar-Based Learning   49:25 Facing Death & Living Well   49:54 Suffering, Resurrection, and Hope   50:39 Faith in the Face of Illness   53:45 Shared Loves & Deep Friendship   55:29 Community Across Generations   56:10 Humor, Death, and the Christian Life   57:09 The Hope of Final Victory   58:10 Beauty, Identity, and Creation   59:41 Gratitude, Legacy, and a Life Well Lived   01:00:11 Final Reflections & Memorable Friendship

    1h 2m

  3. APR 23

    The Significance of Faith, Education, and Assessment with Dr. Gary Welton

    CLT Study: https://www.gcc.edu/Home/Staff-Directory/Staff-Detail/gcc-study-finds-predictive-value-in-classic-learning-test In this episode, we chat with Dr. Gary Welton, a dedicated professor and administrator at Grove City College, about his personal journey, the unique environment at Grove City, and the role of standardized assessments like the CLT in higher education. Discover how faith influences academic pathways and the importance of preserving classical liberal arts traditions in today's educational landscape. Key topics include: Dr. Welton’s upbringing in Grove City and his faith-based education journey The advantages of Grove City College’s emphasis on classical and  Christian education Insights into the College Learning Test (CLT) and its predictive validity for college success Trends in standardized testing following the shift toward test-optional policies How classical literacy and familiarity with tradition benefit modern students Favorite books that have shaped Dr. Welton’s worldview, including Les Misérables and The Possessed Timestamps: (0:05) - Welcome and introduction to Dr. Welton’s background (1:20) - The impact of Grove City College on student development (4:44) - Dr. Welton’s faith background and experience in secular universities (8:27) - The origin and findings of the pioneering CLT outcome study (10:53) - Trends in college admissions and test requirement policies (13:08) - Validation of the CLT as a predictor of first-year GPA (14:56) - Connection between classical texts and assessment literacy (16:17) - The importance of cultural and literary literacy in education (18:24) - Unexpected results and insights from the CLT study (20:28) - Homeschooling and school background impacts on scores (24:45) - Lessons for other institutions from the CLT validation study (26:22) - The importance of focused reading for developing mature intellectual skills (28:23) - Dr. Welton’s top books and their influence on his life and work (32:14) - Closing remarks and future hopes for college assessment

    34 min

  4. APR 21

    From Public School to Classical Leadership - Dr Eric DeVries, Headmaster of HCCSA #anchoredpodcast

    Many believe that school growth requires sacrificing uniqueness, but Dr. Eric DeVries shows how Hill Country Christian School is expanding while maintaining its core identity. By fostering a vibrant, Christ-centered culture, the school thrives even as enrollment surpasses 700 students. With over 17 years of experience in leading classical Christian schools, Dr. DeVries shares insights into how strategic clarity and a commitment to moral and spiritual formation drive growth in North Austin. He explores balancing rigorous academics like STEM with the timeless virtues of classical education, all while staying true to the school's faith-driven mission. Discover: How to maintain a church-integrated culture in a growing secular-style school Strategies to prevent mission drift while pursuing enrollment goals Balancing classical humanities with pioneering STEM programs The role of clear messaging in reinforcing school identity Real student stories showcasing the transformative power of classical education In an era where many schools chase numbers at the risk of losing their soul, Dr. DeVries argues that sustainable growth relies on clarity, conviction, and a deep commitment to core principles. This episode is essential for school leaders, parents, and educators passionate about preserving educational integrity amid expansion. Dr. Eric DeVries, head of Hill Country Christian School of Austin, leads a thriving community that prioritizes faith, excellence, and joy in learning. His leadership offers. 1:01 - Introduction by Soren Schwab, welcoming Dr. Eric DeVries. 3:19 - Dr. DeVries discusses his educational background and journey into school leadership. 5:39 - Discovery of classical education and transition to becoming a classical educator. 8:44 - Overview of Hill Country Christian School and its unique aspects. 11:38 - Dr. DeVries shares what drew him to Hill Country Christian School. 15:21 - Balancing classical education with tech and STEM programs. 21:44 - Strategies to prevent mission drift while growing enrollment. 24:44 - Impact of classical Christian education on families and students. 28:35 - Discussion on the benefits of CLT testing and data analysis. 35:45 - Dr. DeVries shares influential books in his life. #ClassicalEducation, #SchoolLeadership, #FaithInLearning, #MissionDriven, #EducationalGrowth, #ChristianSchools, #STEMEducation, #CulturalIdentity

    38 min

  5. APR 16

    Finding Balance in Technology Use with The Canary Project Founder Terry Gromes - Anchored Podcast

    Visit "The Canary Project" website: https://www.thecanaryproject.org/ Most of us are unknowingly living in an attention economy that’s shaping our minds, emotional health, and relationships — often without our consent.  Terry Gromes, founder of the Canary Project, reveals how technology is rewiring childhood development and what parents and educators can do to regain control before it’s too late. In this eye-opening conversation, Terry shares the surprising origins of the Canary Project and how it acts as a “canary in the coal mine,” warning us about the unseen dangers of digital addiction and algorithm-driven distraction.  He discusses the groundbreaking research linking social media use to anxiety, declining social skills, and attention issues — especially for children with underdeveloped prefrontal cortexes.  Terry offers practical, science-backed strategies to reset your family’s tech habits, including the power of simple experiments, digital detoxes, and virtue-based boundaries. You’ll discover: how early signs of digital addiction manifest in everyday habits, why a “healthy tech diet” is essential for mental health, and the role schools can play in creating intentional policies. Terry also breaks down how a 60-day challenge on his app leads to measurable drops in anxiety and rekindles face-to-face relationships.  This episode is essential listening for parents, teachers, and anyone committed to reclaiming human attention in a world dominated by screens. If you’re serious about protecting your children’s future, restoring attention, and building resilient relationships, this conversation will inspire immediate change — because technology should serve the human person, not the other way around. Terry Gromes is the founder of the Canary Project, an initiative dedicated to helping families and schools build healthier relationships with technology, backed by over a decade of experience at the intersection of innovation, product development, and human well-being. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by the digital age, this episode offers clear, actionable steps to foster discipline, presence, and virtue in a screen-saturated world. Don’t wait for a crisis — become the canary in your own family’s coal mine today. 0:23 - Introduction: Welcome and introduction to the Anchored Podcast. 1:42 - Guest Introduction: Meet Terry Gromes, founder of the Canary Project. 3:14 - Early Education: Terry discusses his unique educational background. 5:29 - Technology in Childhood: The role of technology in Terry's upbringing. 7:20 - The Ordered Soul: Challenges of maintaining focus in the digital age. 10:37 - The Canary Project: Origins and mission of the Canary Project. 14:01 - Digital Habits: Recognizing and addressing digital addiction. 19:32 - Parenting in the Digital Age: Strategies for parents to manage tech use. 25:08 - The Canary Challenge: A 60-day program to reset tech habits. 31:28 - Schools and Technology: Implementing tech policies in education. 37:57 - A Healthy Tech Diet: Creating a balanced approach to technology use. 42:28 - Conclusion: Final thoughts and resources. #TechBalance #DigitalWellbeing #CanaryProject #ScreenTime #ParentingTips #EducationReform #MentalHealth #DigitalDetox #TechAwareness #HealthyHabits

    46 min

  6. APR 15

    The Unique, Spirit-Led Culture of Oral Roberts University with Dr Kim Boyd - The Anchored Podcast

    Unlock the secret to transforming education by blending faith, leadership, and practical strategies—discover how a spirit-filled approach shapes tomorrow’s teachers. Dr. Kim Boyd, Dean of the College of Education at Oral Roberts University, shares her remarkable journey from a public school student in Pennsylvania to a transformative leader who’s reimagining Christian education. She reveals how her own childhood struggles, including teachers’ harsh words that once held her back, fueled her lifelong passion for empowering teachers and students alike. Learn how her faith-infused philosophy integrates biblical principles into teaching, creating environments where healing and inspiration flourish. In this episode, you'll discover: -Why the Spirit-led classroom can revolutionize student outcomes and teacher confidence -How Christian educators can navigate the complex landscape of public, private, and homeschool settings while maintaining a biblical worldview -The critical role community and safety play in fostering diversity and inclusion on faith-based campuses -The unique ways ORU’s spirit-empowered training produces teachers who make a difference beyond secular methods -Why less government interference could be the key to an educational renaissance rooted in biblical values Perfect for educators, parents, faith leaders, and students considering their next step, this conversation challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the transformative power of a biblically grounded approach to education. Dr. Kim Boyd is a seasoned professor, speaker, and leader whose work has spanned continents, emphasizing that Christian education isn’t just about academics—it’s about cultivating spirit-empowered leaders eager to serve with integrity and compassion. Her insights will inspire you to see education as a divine calling—one that can heal, uplift, and transform communities. Tune in and discover why faith-based educators are essential to shaping a more hopeful, just, and spiritually grounded future.

    31 min

  7. APR 2

    Forming Well Rounded Students at Chesterton Academy of Milwaukee with Dr. Eric DeMeuse - Anchored Podcast

    Most students leave high school without ever experiencing the depth and joy of a truly classical Catholic education. But what if there’s a better way—one that transforms students into well-rounded leaders rooted in faith and virtue? In this episode, Dr. Eric DeMeuse, headmaster of Chesterton Academy of Milwaukee, shares how a uniquely integrated, high-school-only model is redefining what education can be. He reveals how his own journey—from growing up in Wisconsin, discovering classical texts at Hillsdale, to shaping a school community based on relationship, beauty, and excellence—can inspire your approach to education and family life. You’ll discover why the Chesterton model emphasizes four key pillars: authentic relationship-building, rigorous arts and sciences, sacramental life, and rightly ordered virtues. Dr. DeMeuse explains how cultivating trust and individual excellence creates students who love learning—and who excel not just on standardized tests, but in life. He shares powerful stories of transformation, the importance of developing authentic community from the ground up, and how this model prepares students to thrive in the modern college landscape, often going on to attend Catholic and Christian colleges that align with their values. This isn’t just a school story—it's a call to rethink everything about education, from curriculum design to character formation, and to see the profound impact of a faith-infused, classical approach. Perfect for parents, educators, and anyone committed to forming whole persons in love and truth. Join us to explore how a small school in Milwaukee is making a big impact—and how this model offers hope for a culture longing for truth, beauty, and goodness. Timestamps:  0:00 Introduction to the Anchored Podcast1:00 Eric's Educational Journey2:03 Discovering Classical Education6:36 History of the Chesterton School Network8:40 Distinctive Features of Chesterton Academies14:38 Building School Culture18:17 Transformative Student Stories24:15 Navigating Standardized Testing27:25 College Choices for Chesterton Graduates33:53 Impactful Texts and Final Thoughts

    37 min
  8. Introducing the "Classic Learning Foundation", with Stuart Williams- Anchored Podcast

    MAR 26

    Introducing the "Classic Learning Foundation", with Stuart Williams- Anchored Podcast

    In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Tate sits down with Stuart Williams to discuss the launch of the Classic Learning Foundation. The Foundation is being established to come alongside students and assist with the funding of both secondary and collegiate education. With a focus on merit-based and need-based scholarships, the goal is to support students pursuing a classically based, liberal arts education. Drawing a parallel to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, Stuart explains how the Classic Learning Foundation aims to create recognition and prestige around strong pre-college preparation—particularly for students in the 10th and 11th grades—and to help carry that recognition into the college experience. The conversation also explores broader questions about education:  Has the purpose of college shifted toward return on investment?  What is lost when education is reduced to job training?  Why do reading, writing, and clear thinking still matter? Reflecting on his own experience—from a career at IBM to studying at St. John's College—Stuart shares how a liberal arts education shaped his thinking and why he believes it remains essential today. 00:00 Introduction  01:00 Stuart Williams’ background  08:00 Returning to school at St. John’s College  15:40 What is the Classic Learning Foundation?  18:20 National Merit and education incentives  21:49 The purpose of education  24:27 Education, work, and the future Watch more from the Anchored Podcast and explore the ideas shaping the future of education. #ClassicLearningFoundation, #ClassicalEducation, #LiberalArts, #CLT, #AnchoredPodcast, #JeremyTate, #StuartWilliams, #EducationReform, #scholarships

    31 min
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4.8
out of 5
99 Ratings

About

Anchored is published by the Classic Learning Test. Hosted by CLT leadership, including our CEO Jeremy Tate, Anchored features conversations with leading thinkers on issues at the intersection of education and culture. New discussions are released every Thursday. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.

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