Frequently Asked Questions
Academics and Student support
What curriculum does CCA use?
CCA selects curriculum for each grade level and provides instruction and assignments that follow an intentional scope and sequence. Families purchase certain books and materials for use at home. Required literature books must be purchased using the ISBNs provided on the literature list. Whenever possible, CCA shares classroom materials to help minimize additional expenses. Families are also encouraged to explore local libraries, our CCA Family Facebook page, and used curriculum resources when appropriate.
How much time should we expect to spend on schoolwork at home?
The amount of time varies by grade level and student. Assignments are designed to reinforce and extend classroom instruction, and expectations increase as students progress through the grades. Parents should plan to provide consistent time and oversight for schoolwork on home days. Students gradually develop greater independence, responsibility, and time management skills.
How is student progress assessed?
CCA divides the school year into three trimesters. Families receive a report card at the end of each trimester to communicate their child's academic progress.
Teachers asses student progress through classroom participation, assignments, projects, quizzes, tests, and other appropriate measures. They provide feedback and communicate with families about academic progress and areas where additional support may be needed. Parents remain an instrumental part of the process and are encouraged to communicate with teachers when questions or concerns arise.
In the Grammar School, student progress is reported using a skills-based approach that reflects each student's development and mastery of specific skills. In the Logic and Rhetoric Schools, students receive grades using a 10-point grading scale.
What is CCA’s policy regarding students with learning differences or special needs?
We believe all children are created in the image of God and have unique gifts and abilities. Our teachers work to meet students at different levels and provide support within the scope of our program and resources.
CCA is not equipped to provide intensive special education services or significant individualized support beyond what can reasonably be offered in a general education classroom. We are glad to talk with families about a child’s individual needs and determine whether our program can provide an appropriate learning environment.
Our model also allows parents to provide individualized instruction and additional support at home. Families are encouraged to share relevant information about their child’s learning needs during the admissions process so we can have an honest conversation about whether CCA is a good fit.
Will my child be behind students in traditional schools?
CCA follows a thoughtfully selected curriculum designed to provide a rigorous and well rounded education. While our approach and sequence of instruction may differ from those of traditional schools, we are intentional about building strong academic foundations and preparing students for the next stages of their education.
Students are challenged through a broad range of academic disciplines and we recognize that children develop and progress at different rates. Our goal is to help each student grow in knowledge, ability, and a love of learning.
How does CCA prepare students for college?
CCA provides a strong academic foundation through a rigorous curriculum, qualified teachers, and an emphasis on clear communication, critical thinking, and independent learning. As students enter the Rhetoric School, they receive guidance as they prepare for life after graduation, including college planning and the admissions process. CCA offers a collegiate night for families.
CCA is also NCAA certified, allowing eligible students who are interested in collegiate athletics to pursue the NCAA eligibility process. College admission decisions are made by individual institutions, but we seek to equip students with the academic preparation and guidance needed to pursue their goals.
Does CCA provide standardized testing?
Yes. CCA offers the Iowa Assessments to students in grades 6–12 whose families wish to participate. Testing is administered toward the end of the school year and provides families with additional information about their student's academic progress and also serves as proof of progress.
Admissions and Enrollment
Does my child need to be registered as a homeschool student?
Yes. Because CCA operates as a hybrid program rather than a traditional school, families are responsible for complying with Virginia's home instruction requirements. Parents must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to their local school division and meet the applicable state requirements for home instruction. CCA provides the curriculum, instruction, assignments, and academic support to help families fulfill their educational responsibilities while enrolled in our program.
What is the age requirement for kindergarten?
Students must turn five by October 1st to be eligible for kindergarten. We also work with parents to assess each prospective students’ readiness for the classroom and the expectations of our program.
When does CCA begin accepting applications for the following school year?
Current families are given the opportunity to re-enroll before applications open to new families. The timing of open enrollment is announced each year. Please visit our admissions page or contract our enrollment coordinator for a current application timeline.
Does CCA accept students after the school year has started?
Mid-year enrollment may be possible if space is available and a student can successfully transition into the program. Please contact our enrollment coordinator to discuss availability and next steps.
Does CCA allow students to enroll part-time?
CCA generally enrolls students in the complete curriculum offered for their grade level rather than offering individuals classes on an a’la carte basis.Thursday elective offerings are available to fully enrolled students. Rhetoric students may have additional flexibility in their course schedules. Please contact our enrollment coordinator to discuss specific circumstances.
What is the average class size at CCA?
Grammar School sections have a maximum enrollment of 16 students. Class sizes in the Logic and Rhetoric Schools may vary depending on the course and grade level. When a section reaches capacity, additional applicants may be placed on a waiting list.
Attendance and Family involvement
What happens if my child is absent on a campus day?
Regular attendance is important because students receive direct instruction, participate in classroom discussions, and engage with their teachers and classmates on campus days. We understand that illness and other circumstances may occasionally prevent a student from attending.
Parents may use the Family Portal in Grammar School to follow along with assignments that were missed. Students in Logic and Rhetoric Schools will follow along with assignments posted in Google Classroom. Some classroom experiences cannot be fully replicated at home. Students are responsible for missed work, with parental oversight. The Family Handbook has all policies and procedures listed.
What are the expectations for parents throughout the school year?
Parents are an essential part of the CCA community and play an active role in their child’s education. Throughout the school year, parents are expected to oversee home-day assignments, reteach missed concepts, monitor their child’s progress, communicate with teachers when questions or concerns arise, and support CCA policies and expectations.
We value open, respectful communication and encourage parents to partner with teachers in addressing academic or other concerns. A successful experience at CCA depends on a shared commitment between families, teachers, and students.
Are parents able to visit and participate in school activities?
Absolutely! We value having parents as part of our community and welcome family involvement in appropriate school activities. Parents are welcome to attend Chapel and are invited to participate in special events and opportunities throughout the year. For the safety and security of all students, all visitors must check in through the school office before entering the building.
We also appreciate parents who are willing to volunteer their time and talents to support our students, teachers, and community. Volunteer opportunities will be communicated throughout the year.
Daily life at CCA
Does CCA require uniforms?
CCA does not have traditional uniforms, but students are expected to follow the school’s dress code. Specific expectations vary by school level and are outlined in the Family Handbook. Families should review the dress code before purchasing school clothing.
Does CCA provide lunch?
Families are responsible for packing lunch and snack for each school day. Students should bring everything they need for the day.
Does CCA provide opportunities for physical activity and outdoor play?
Yes! Students have opportunities for outdoor play, physical activity, and movement throughout the school day. We value the development of the whole child and believe these experiences are an important part of a healthy learning environment.
