FAQ
Do we need to buy and use your curriculum on home days?
You will be required to purchase some of the curriculum for individual use at home in order to complete assignments. We encourage you to utilize resources such as the local library and used curriculum sites. All students are required to purchase literature books with the ISBN listed on the literature list. As much as possible, we will share materials freely during school days to minimize the outside cost.
What is your special education policy?
We believe all children are created in the image of God and have unique spiritual gifts to share with the Kingdom. Our model of education seeks to meet children at various levels, but we must admit that we are not adequately prepared to meet the needs of children requiring significant support beyond general education. However, we are willing to work with families to implement supports within our abilities that would accommodate students. One of the benefits of a hybrid program is that parents are able to differentiate instruction for their child on home days. A slower or faster than average learner can be accommodated with individualized instruction during that time. Additionally, our small class sizes, time for outdoor play, and intentional brain breaks create an environment where many children succeed.
I am new to homeschooling and a little nervous about teaching my kids at home the days they are not in school. How much do I need to do?
Teachers will provide simple instructions and assignments to make it as easy as possible to complete the lessons at home. Parents are responsible for overseeing the home day assignments and ensuring completion. Students begin to demonstrate responsibility for their learning as they progress with our program. This model allows you flexibility you would not receive with a traditional five day a week school.
Is this school right for your child?
We are aware we cannot meet the needs of all children or families. If you are a homeschooler who likes complete independence in your curriculum choices and would prefer to do all of the schooling yourself, we may not be for you. We also may not be for you if you prefer the traditional school model which meets five days a week and you are not willing or able to teach your child at home multiple days of the week.
Will my child be behind other traditional schools?
This is a complicated question, but we believe your student will be right where he/she needs to be. CCA provides a different kind of education, an education that promotes a well-rounded child who loves to learn. Our students are challenged as they learn reading through the study of great literature and history through stories that bring the time periods alive. We designed our math and science programs to be rigorous, but also provide the option to choose math levels beginning in 8th grade.
Will my child be able to get into a “good” college?
Homeschooling families are accustomed to being asked about the prospects for their students being accepted at “good” colleges. People want to know if they have the right currency. In reality, this is a question that guidance counselors of every school, private or public, face. If one really could guarantee acceptance to every elite institution of higher learning there might not be the admission scandals currently making headlines.
A more trustworthy guarantee can be found in an analogy to becoming an Eagle Scout. No matter how excellent the material contained in a Boy Scout Manual, to achieve the high honor of Eagle Scout, you also need a dedicated scout leader, the support of the scout’s family, and the commitment to hard work from the scout. That’s the true “currency”: a proper foundation and a partnership of commitment.
We at Cornerstone Classical Academy are committed to hiring and training excellent teachers, to working with proven curriculum and methods, and to creating a God honoring school culture dedicated to partnering with families to help students reach the highest standards. That is the Cornerstone Classical Academy guarantee.
Do students at CCA have unstructured time to play?
Research shows students need frequent breaks of physical activity so our schedule is flexible and allows brain breaks throughout the day. Our location offers plenty of outdoor space for children to explore and play including access to a small creek.
Does CCA allow students to enroll on a part-time basis?
At this point we do not have the option of a la carte classes. Students are required to enroll in the complete curriculum offered at each grade level. Thursday elective offerings are only for fully enrolled students. Rhetoric students have more flexibility with course enrollment.
Does CCA require uniforms?
While we do not have specific uniforms, we ask all students to dress modestly and to wear khakis or jean bottoms (no holes), a long or short sleeve collared shirt, and closed-toed shoes daily. Students should be reminded to dress appropriately for the weather. Additional clarification and details are listed in our handbook.
What is the average class size at CCA?
In an effort to keep our class sizes manageable and provide an individualized education, our class size maximum is 18 students in each section of the Grammar School. Our Logic and Rhetoric Schools provide more flexibility in terms of our maximum numbers. After we reach the maximum number, students will be placed in a waiting pool.
What is our age requirement for kindergarten?
We require that students turn five by October 15th to begin kindergarten. We will walk parents through assessing the classroom readiness of the prospective kindergarten student.
When does CCA begin accepting enrollment for the following year?
If you are interested in applying for school years beyond 2023, we start accepting applications after our current families have been given an opportunity for renenrollment. For Fall 2024, we will start accepting applications in February 2024.
For mid-year enrollment, please contact our enrollment team to see if space is available for your child.
Does CCA provide lunch?
We ask all of our parents to pack lunch and snack for each day school is in session.
Where can I purchase Cornerstone merchandise?
Cornerstone merchandise is now available for purchase. E-mail Mrs. Willett at kwillett@ccaroanoke.org for specific ordering information. All items are dress code approved except for the ball cap.
