Anchored by the Classic Learning Test

What kind of education is required to sustain a free society? On this episode of The Anchored Podcast, Jeremy Wayne Tate, founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT), sits down with Jeffrey S. Trimbath, President of the Maryland Family Institute, to examine the deep connection between classical education, family formation, and self-government. Jeffrey draws on his experience in public policy, education, and family advocacy to argue that a democratic republic depends on citizens who can govern themselves—and that kind of formation does not happen by accident. From the decline of grammar schools to modern education experiments, this conversation explores how cultural and educational shifts shape freedom itself. If we cannot govern ourselves, someone else will. Topics Covered in This Episode: Why self-government depends on moral and intellectual formation The role of classical education in preserving a democratic republic How modern schooling departed from the grammar school tradition Family, virtue, and the Western intellectual inheritance Education policy, parental rights, the issue of euthanasia, and cultural formation About Our Guest Jeffrey S. Trimbath is President of the Maryland Family Institute, an organization dedicated to strengthening families through public policy, education, and cultural engagement. Learn more at: https://marylandfamily.org About the Host Jeremy Wayne Tate is the founder of the Classic Learning Test (CLT) and host of The Anchored Podcast, where education, culture, and the Western tradition meet. About The Anchored Podcast The Anchored Podcast is the official podcast of the Classic Learning Test, featuring conversations on classical education, culture, and the ideas that shape human flourishing.

Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with Dr. Jordi Wiersma, founding president of the Pascal Institute in the Netherlands, to discuss the renewal of classical education in Europe and beyond. They explore how modern schooling shapes culture, why liberal arts and Great Books still matter, and how rigorous seminars in philosophy, literature, and the history of ideas can form students in wisdom and judgment.​ You’ll hear about the mission of the Pascal Institute, its seminars and symposia, and its place within the broader classical education movement that is reconnecting students with Homer, Plato, Aristotle, Shakespeare, Pascal, and more.​ Learn more about the Pascal Institute: https://pascalinstitute.com/ #ClassicalEducation #PascalInstitute #JordiWiersma #GreatBooks #Plato #LiberalArts #EuropeanEducation #ChristianEducation

Join us on the Anchored Podcast as we explore the journey of Rockbridge Academy with its head, Roy Griffith. Discover how his background in architecture influenced his approach to education and learn about the unique values that define this flagship classical Christian school. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in modern education, including the integration of technology and the balance between academic rigor and spiritual growth. Tune in for insights on the future of classical Christian education and the role of community and mentorship in schools. #AnchorPodcast #ClassicalEducation #RoyGriffith #RockbridgeAcademy #EducationInsights #ChristianEducation #ArchitectureInEducation #TechInEducation #AcademicRigor #spiritualgrowth

In this episode of the Anchor Podcast, Jeremy Tate and guests Luke Heintschel and Genavive Edman discuss the mission and vision behind Coeur d'Eucharist Academy, a Catholic school in Northern Idaho. They explore the challenges and opportunities within the classical education movement, emphasizing the importance of returning to the roots of Catholic education, which prioritize virtue and excellence over mere academic achievement. Genavive shares her journey from a homeschool background to leading a school that aims to foster a strong community and a deep understanding of faith among students. Luke adds insights on the significance of whole-person formation in education, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that integrates both academic rigor and character development. Chapters 00:00 The Mission of Catholic Education 01:00 Introducing Coeur d'Eucharist Academy 02:06 Personal Journeys to Classical Education 04:32 The Debate on Classical vs. Liberal Education 07:25 The Decline of Catholic Schools 09:31 Origins of Coeur d'Eucharist Academy 12:47 Influences and Inspirations 14:10 Distinctive Features of the Academy 19:32 Navigating Diocesan Relationships 21:46 The Revival of Catholic Education 24:28 Curriculum and Academic Focus 29:38 Books That Shape Our Mission

The conversation with Mike McKenna provides insights into the world of Classical Christian Education and the shift away from school rankings to celebrate partner schools. Takeaways Chapters 00:29 03:17 06:09 09:36 12:16 15:43 18:35

How should classical education respond to artificial intelligence—and what happens to formation when machines can teach faster than humans? In this panel from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, CLT brings together leading scholars and practitioners to wrestle with AI, virtue, and the future of learning. ​ Moderated by Dr. Angel Adams Parham (University of Virginia; President of the CLT Board of Academic Advisors), this conversation features Dr. Christopher Perrin (Classical Academic Press), Dr. Brian Williams (Templeton Honors College, Eastern University), and Erin Valdez (University of Austin; education and public policy). They discuss how AI is already reshaping classrooms, what is at stake for the telos of education, and how classical schools, homeschoolers, and universities can use new tools without sacrificing human formation. ​ Across the panel you’ll hear: Stories from higher ed and K–12 about plagiarism, AI‑graded essays, and “alpha schools” that rely on AI tutors instead of teachers. ​ A deep dive into the difference between information and formation, and why contemplation, attention, and love of the good cannot be automated. ​ Concrete use‑cases where AI may genuinely serve classical learning (e.g., language drilling, logistics, research assistance) and where it risks dehumanizing students. ​ Recorded live at the 2025 Annapolis Summit, hosted by Classic Learning Test (CLT). Perfect for parents, teachers, school leaders, and students who care about classical education, virtue ethics, and the future of humane learning in an AI age.

Taken from the 2025 Annapolis Summit, this episode brings together leading voices in classical education to clarify how CLT thinks and talks about learning. “Towards a Common Language at CLT” features Dr. Timothy Wiens, Laura Berquist, Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, Dr. Daniel Peterson, and Dr. Justin Smith in a lively roundtable on what terms like “classical,” “liberal arts,” “formation,” and “rigor” really mean. They explore why shared language matters for schools, homeschool families, and colleges partnering with CLT, and how a clear vocabulary can unite diverse approaches around a common vision. Educators, parents, and students will gain a deeper understanding of CLT’s mission and how it seeks to serve the renewal of learning in the modern world. Perfect for anyone asking: What exactly do we mean by “classical education,” and how does CLT fit into that story?

This episode brings together three of the most influential public intellectuals of our time for a rare, honest conversation about truth, disagreement, and unity in a polarized age. Father Robert Sirico moderates a powerful dialogue between Dr. Cornel West and Professor Robert P. George as they discuss their co‑authored book, Truth Matters: A Dialogue on Fruitful Disagreement in an Age of Division. Episode description Can people who profoundly disagree still be friends—and work together for the common good? In this special panel discussion, Father Sirico hosts Cornel West and Robert P. George to explore how to seek truth, argue with integrity, and practice real civility without watering down conviction. They share personal stories, hard‑won wisdom, and practical principles for disagreement that is honest, charitable, and fruitful. Listeners will hear them wrestle with: Whether you are a student, educator, pastor, or concerned citizen, this conversation offers a hopeful model for how to think deeply, disagree strongly, and still recognize the dignity of those on the “other side.”

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast by Classic Learning Test, Jeremy Wayne Tate sits down with 98‑year‑old Blouke Carus to share an unforgettable story of childhood under Nazi Germany, escape to the United States, and a life shaped by liberal arts education. Carus reflects on what it was like to grow up under totalitarianism, the moment his family fled, and how coming back to America formed his understanding of freedom, responsibility, and the human person.​ Drawing on decades as a leader in publishing and education, Carus explains why studying the great books, history, and philosophy gave him resilience, moral clarity, and a sense of purpose that ideology could never supply. This conversation is ideal for students, parents, teachers, and school leaders seeking an alternative to purely technocratic education and looking to recover a deeply human vision of learning.​ Listeners will hear about: If you care about classical education, the future of American schools, or how to form the next generation against totalitarian thinking, this episode is for you.

Today Jeremy is joined by Susan Morrow, PhD, who obtained her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Susan describes her unique childhood growing up in a funeral parlor, her educational journey as well as moral conflicts she experienced as a professional scientist, and her ultimate decision to devote herself full time to raising her family.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Shannon Johnston, Assistant Professor of Art and Director of the Pathmaker program at Newman University. They discuss how Pathmaker is reimagining higher education by offering students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years through an innovative, project-based learning model that emphasizes mentorship and individualized learning experiences. They also reflect on the growing influence of AI in both art and education, while emphasizing that human creativity remains irreplaceable.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Chad Pecknold, Associate Professor of Theology at the Catholic University and author of Fire on the Altar: Setting Our Souls Ablaze through Augustine’s Confessions. They discuss St. Augustine as offering the structural blueprint for Western civilization and Christianity as the religious DNA embedded within it. They also dive into the term Christian nationalism and the strong, cultural desire to return to public Christianity. stpaulcenter.co/fireonthealtar Instagram: @stpaulcenter and @emmausroadpublishing X: @ccpecknold

On this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Soren is joined by Semi Park, founding Headmaster of Orange County Classical Academy. She discusses her experiences serving underserved schools, her transition to classical education, and the founding of OCCA amidst significant challenges and opposition. They emphasize the importance of mission-driven education, the role of parents, and the need for diversity in thought over mere representation. She also addresses the current challenges facing classical education in California.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Michael Bileca, founder of True North, a network of classical charter schools in Florida. They discuss his time working for the Florida state legislature, including some of the education reform policies he enacted. They explore how his work in state politics convinced him to go beyond policy and start a school. They conclude by diving into the story of introducing the CLT to Florida and sharing statistics on its growth over the past few years.

In this episode of the Anchored Podcast, Jeremy is joined by Tim Feist, founder of Feist Stone. They discuss his experience at the Naval Academy as a midshipman and professor, his passion for history, and the moment that led him to begin stone carving. They explore the significance of stone carving as both an art form and a spiritual discipline, and the importance of stone carving in the ancient world. They also reflect on the role of education in fostering creativity and craftsmanship, and the impact of art on education.

On this episode of Anchored, Soren is joined by Joseph Magaña, Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at EdChoice and Leslie Hiner, Vice President of Legal Policy at EdChoice, leading their Legal Policy and Education Center. They unpack educational savings accounts, and the importance of parental accountability in the school choice movement. They talk about the Friedman Index as a resource that allows families to assess where and how school choice is best accommodated across the United States. They also explore homeschool families’ perspectives and concerns regarding school choice.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Dr. Kent Lasnoski, President of San Damiano College for the Trades, a new Catholic trades college in Illinois. Dr. Lasnoski shares his journey from professor and dean at Wyoming Catholic College to founding a Catholic Trade School. They discuss the importance of integrating intellectual and practical skills in education, the impact of AI on the trades, and the significance of fostering a community and entrepreneurial mindset among students. Dr. Lasnoski also describes the unique educational model at San Damiano, which prepares students for a fulfilling life in both mind and the trades.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by John DeJak, Director of Education for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. John talks about working alongside Dale Ahlquist during the founding of the first Chesterton Academy, as well as his transition to Saint Agnes, where he worked in collaboration with Michael Adkins. Together, John and Jeremy explore what Catholic schools can learn from their Protestant classical counterparts. They also discuss the hopeful future of Catholic education and the merits of a deviceless school.

On this episode of Anchored, Jeremy is joined by Deacon Harrison Garlick, Chancellor and Legal Counsel for the Diocese of Tulsa, and Host of Ascend: The Great Books Podcast. They discuss his journey from a Protestant upbringing to embracing classical education and its significance in today's society. They explore the challenges of advocating for religious liberty in education, including recently with St. Isidore of Seville Virtual Catholic Charter School, for which he testified before the Supreme Court. Finally, Deacon Garlick details his two Great Books-focused podcasts, the role of love in teaching, and the intersection of paganism and Christian education. Ascend: The Great Books Podcast - https://www.thegreatbookspodcast.com/ The Ascent: https://www.theascent.io/about