Frequently Asked Questions
Every school comes with tradeoffs. These questions give families a clear picture of RLA’s academics, activities, community, and daily life, so they can decide whether it is the right fit for their child.
RLA follows a classical liberal arts curriculum. Students first build a foundation of knowledge, then learn to reason from it, and finally learn to express and defend what they know.
The curriculum connects subjects instead of treating each class as an isolated subject.
Catholic classical education seeks to form students in the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty while developing the habits of clear thought, effective communication, and faithful Christian living. At RLA, the classical disciplines of grammar, logic, rhetoric, and the liberal arts are woven throughout our curriculum rather than always taught as separate courses. Our youngest students read great works of literature and learn to write using the IEW approach. Wonder and curiosity have a special place in our school. Some additional features of our program that would stand out to new-comers: Our writing program is rooted in the classical Progymnasmata, all freshmen and sophomores study philosophy, while the juniors and seniors study rhetoric, and all students receive theology instruction. Upperclassmen bring these skills together through a multi-year thesis project, culminating in the presentation and defense of their work.
RLA maintains a screen-free school environment. Students learn through books, handwriting, direct instruction, conversation, music, recess, and face-to-face interaction.
Student phones are collected at the start of the day and students are not issued an iPad, chromebook, or any other digital device. Teachers use some limited technology for supplemental purposes but these are not permanent classroom features.
RLA’s Catholic identity shapes both what students learn and how they live together. Every faculty member teaches under oath to remain faithful to the Magisterium, and school life includes weekly Mass, Adoration, and Marian consecration.
Days at RLA are focused on living, not just relaying information and taking tests. We pray, sing, and play together in addition to our rigorous classical education curriculum. This balance ensures that students have time to breathe and reflect as their education advances.
A Pre-K through 12th grade school gives students a shared community as they grow. Older and younger students have opportunities to know one another, and families can remain part of one school community across multiple stages of life.
RLA is a particular kind of school. Families looking for Catholic formation, classical learning, a screen-free school day, and a close community may find a strong fit here.
Every student participates in singing and drama as part of a well-rounded education. These activities are not only an exercise in cooperation, but also enrich the student through creating beautiful music and productions.Aside from intramural sports, RLA has two official state programs in track and cross-country. We also offer girls volleyball, boys and girls basketball, boys flag football, and boys martial arts.
RLA works to know students personally and help them grow. The school also believes families deserve a clear understanding of the support available before they apply.
Small communities can offer close relationships, but they also require care when conflict arises. We see social conflict not as something to run from, but as an opportunity for dialogue, growth, and deepening one’s understanding of what it means to be in relationship.
RLA brings together families from across the region who are looking for this particular kind of education and community. Lots of Catholic-owned businesses in Berwyn, it’s safe, kids can walk around. On Fridays, seniors can go out for lunch.
Tuition is one part of the decision. Families should also understand registration, financial aid, uniforms, books, trips, activities, transportation, fundraising, and any after-school costs.
RLA teachers strive to make themselves available for parents - they’re as interested in the success of every student as their family.
Families can begin by visiting RLA, meeting school leadership, and learning more about daily life. The admissions process may also include an application and Shadow Day.
RLA aims to send students forth formed and free, prepared to think clearly, speak well, engage the world, and live with confidence and conviction.
If you are weighing RLA against another school, ask us directly. We will give you a clear answer about what RLA offers, what it asks of families, and whether it is the right fit for your child.
