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. 1 HR AGO

    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

  2. 2 DAYS AGO

    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

  3. 16 APR

    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

  4. 15 APR

    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

  5. 2 APR

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

    26 MAR

    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
  7. Cultivating an Enchanted Intellect with Andrew Morton of Worldview Academy

    19 MAR

    Cultivating an Enchanted Intellect with Andrew Morton of Worldview Academy

    Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Anchored Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of an "enchanted intellect" with Andrew Morton, a senior fellow at Worldview Academy. Discover how reading full novels and engaging with classics like Narnia and Lord of the Rings can shape a vibrant, resilient faith in students. Join us as Andrew shares how Worldview Academy’s summer camps forge hearts and minds through interactive experiences, igniting a love for truth, goodness, and beauty. Learn how this approach challenges the modern tendency to compartmentalize faith and reason, fostering a worldview rooted in awe and wonder. If you're a parent, educator, or student longing for education that feeds the soul as much as the mind, this episode is your catalyst. Discover the revolutionary potential of seeing God's glory in the ordinary and learn how to cultivate an enchanted worldview that lasts beyond the classroom. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to The Anchored Podcast for more inspiring content. Your support helps us continue to bring you insightful discussions and transformative ideas. Thank you for listening and stay anchored in truth! To learn more about Worldview Academy, visit their website at: https://worldview.org/ Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction and guest Andrew Morton’s background [01:10] Andrew’s educational journey from homeschooling to Grove City College [02:44] The role of classical education unknowingly received by Andrew [03:52] The influence of books and literature on his worldview formation [04:36] The value of Grove City College as a cost-effective, faith-aligned institution [05:47] The importance of the classical Christian renewal and its hidden impact [06:25] How Andrew’s familiarity with the term 'classical education' evolved [07:21] The impact of reading Lewis, Tolkien, and George MacDonald on imagination [08:17] Worldview Academy’s classical experience and its formative role [09:15] The cultural significance of The Lord of the Rings release [09:42] The decline of reading full novels and its impact on imagination [10:01] The connection of fiction to the formation of moral imagination [11:19] The misconception about fantasy and the reinforcing of reality through fiction [12:04] How Andrew and his family first engaged with Worldview Academy [12:30] Overview of Worldview Academy’s mission and camp experience [14:26] How camp simulates an internship in a life committed to Christ [15:25] The integration of heart, mind, and will in formation at camp [16:23] The importance of love for truth and personal devotion [17:41] Evangelism training and real-world application during camp trips [19:04] The transformative impact of shared faith experiences and evangelism [20:22] Target demographics and demographic diversity at camps [21:00] Locations and frequency of camps across the country [22:30] The flexibility of student backgrounds and their growth [23:44] The role of being 'enchanted' in teaching and educational impact [24:19] Andrew’s reflections on GK Chesterton’s The Ethics of Elfland [26:50] The significance of beauty, wonder, and the enchanted worldview [30:12] The challenge of modern mechanistic explanations versus biblical wonder [33:26] Encapsulating wonder: wonder at the magic, gratitude to the magician [34:23] Chesterton’s imagery of enchantment and the everyday wonder of God’s creation [36:37] The diverse profiles of students and how the camp impacts different backgrounds [39:22] The encouraging statistic of student retention and enthusiasm for camp [40:22] The alignment of CLT’s humanized assessment with the camp’s formative goals [40:57] Andrew’s recommended reading: The Weight of Glory and Mere Christianity [43:04] Closing thoughts and encouragement to explore cla

    44 min
  8. The Mission of HISTORY250: Restoring America's Story | Anchored Podcast - Andrew Zwerneman

    13 MAR

    The Mission of HISTORY250: Restoring America's Story | Anchored Podcast - Andrew Zwerneman

    Join Andrew Zwerneman, Head of Cana Academy, on the Anchored Podcast as he dives into the History250 Project, a groundbreaking initiative transforming the way American history is taught. Discover how this project brings history to life with 250 high-quality videos, classroom resources, and original documents—covering the story of America from its founding to the modern day. Zwerneman discusses: The importance of teaching American history warts-and-all, highlighting both challenges and triumphs. How leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Harry Truman, and Cesar Chavez drew on history and moral principles to shape our nation. Ways teachers, students, and lifelong learners can use History250 for classical, engaging, and meaningful education. Why the story of America belongs to everyone who lives here, and how understanding it inspires citizenship, courage, and critical thinking. Watch the full interview to see how History250 is empowering educators and students to explore America’s past in new and engaging ways. Like, share, and subscribe for more insights into classical education, American history, and educational innovation! Learn more & access free History250 resources: www.history250.org #History250 #AmericanHistory #ClassicalEducation #EducationInnovation #TeachingHistory #CanaAcademy #AnchoredPodcast #HistoryEducation #FoundingFathers #CivicEducation

    35 min
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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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