Thales Academy
Thales Academy
Thales Academy is a network of private, non-profit schools located primarily in North Carolina, United States. Established to provide high-quality and affordable classical education, the academy is named after Thales of Miletus, an ancient Greek philosopher who is often credited as one of the first intellectual figures in Western history, known for his contributions to geometry and astronomy.
History and Philosophy
Founded in 2007, Thales Academy was developed to fill a gap in the educational sector by offering an alternative to traditional public schooling systems and high-cost private institutions. The academy's educational model is centered around the principles of classical education, which includes a strong emphasis on critical thinking, logical reasoning, and a robust understanding of literature, history, and science.
Thales Academy is influenced by the teachings of John Locke and Thomas Jefferson, who advocated for an education system that promotes liberty, personal responsibility, and civic virtue. The academy's approach is also aligned with the educational philosophies of Maria Montessori, focusing on fostering self-directed learning and independence among students.
Locations
As of recent years, Thales Academy has expanded beyond its initial location in Raleigh, North Carolina to include multiple campuses across the state and in other regions such as Franklin, Tennessee. Some notable campuses include:
Curriculum
Thales Academy's curriculum is designed around the "Trivium," a classical framework consisting of three stages: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. This framework develops students' abilities to absorb information, analyze concepts, and articulate ideas effectively.
- Grammar Stage: Students are introduced to foundational subjects, including language arts, mathematics, history, and science.
- Logic Stage: In this stage, students begin to cultivate analytical skills through subjects like advanced mathematics, science, and literature analysis.
- Rhetoric Stage: The final stage emphasizes the art of communication, where students hone their writing and public speaking skills through projects and presentations.
Notable Aspects
Thales Academy places a strong emphasis on character development, guided by the virtues of integrity, respect, and perseverance. The school incorporates elements of project-based learning and encourages participation in extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and science olympiads.