ACADEMICS

At Penobscot Christian School, we aim to provide a quality education for our students in a faith-filled environment. We offer education for students from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Starting in preschool, we utilize the classical method of education, which consists of three stages: grammar, logic, and rhetoric (also known as the trivium). The classical model is different from many other methods of education, especially those used in the public school system.

The classical approach to education is not simply a model, but a philosophy. 

2 girls studying at their desks at Penobscot Christian School
boy doing artwork at Penobscot Christian School

Modern education views students as machines to be programmed. The classical model views education as a way for students to develop their minds, use reason and logic to evaluate the world around them, and to grow into their potential as image bearers of God.

This academic approach will challenge students while also developing in them a love for learning. 

In addition, our model is holistic: we want students to love and honor God with not just their mind, but also their body, soul, and emotions. Therefore, we offer a variety of activities that students can participate in such as art club, a variety of sports, music, and more.

At Penobscot Christian School, we aim to provide a quality education for our students in a faith-filled environment. We offer education for students from Pre-K through 12th grade.

Starting in preschool, we utilize the classical method of education, which consists of three stages: grammar, logic, and rhetoric (also known as the trivium). The classical model is different from many other methods of education, especially those used in the public school system.

The classical approach to education is not simply a model, but a philosophy. 

2 girls studying at their desks at Penobscot Christian School

Modern education views students as machines to be programmed. The classical model views education as a way for students to develop their minds, use reason and logic to evaluate the world around them, and to grow into their potential as image bearers of God.

This academic approach will challenge students while also developing in them a love for learning. 

In addition, our model is holistic: we want students to love and honor God with not just their mind, but also their body, soul, and emotions. Therefore, we offer a variety of activities that students can participate in such as art club, a variety of sports, music, and more.

boy doing artwork at Penobscot Christian School

What to Expect at Penobscot Christian School

Grammar

PreK-6th Grade

Logic

7th-8th Grade

Rhetoric

9th-12th Grade

Mrs Haun reading to students Penobscot Christian School

Grammar Stage

This phase is also known as the “Knowledge” Stage. At this age, students are naturally curious and desire to learn new information. This is also a time when students absorb knowledge quickly and find memorization easy.

Thus, during grammar school, we leverage their natural desire to learn and acquire information. These years focus on answering the questions of who, what, where, and the when of a subject.

During a student’s time in grammar school, they will acquire the basic building blocks of each subject. The teaching methods used are singing and chants, as well as reading aloud. 

Logic Stage

This phase of education is also known as the “Debate” Stage. During the Logic School years (Grades 7-8), the teaching method shifts from singing and chants to discussion, debate, and argument. 

Students are taught socratically, with a good bit of give and take (dialectic) between teacher and students. Logic is introduced as a central or “paradigm” subject, which is integrated into almost every other class students take. Special emphasis is given to the study and detection of logical fallacies.

awards ceremony with students receiving awards at Penobscot Christian
logic and rhetoric students at Penobscot Christian School

Rhetoric Stage

This phase of education is also known as the “Persuasion” Stage. During the Rhetoric School years, students will focus on applying and communicating the knowledge they have developed throughout their education.

They will continue to learn new information in traditional subjects (e.g., history, science, math, literature, foreign language). But they will also grow in their ability to write and speak well, communicating their ideas clearly and persuasively.

In addition to the options we provide on our Rhetoric School campus, we also work closely with a local college for upperclassmen to fulfill electives and prepare for their future. We also work with United Technical Center with trade school options and hands-on learning opportunities.

Ultimately, our goal is for our students to engage meaningfully with our ever-complicating world.

student writing on paper at desk

We want our students to leave their time at PCS with a sincere love of God, the ability to discern truth, and an appreciation for beauty in the world around them.