Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in South Bay Classical Academy! Below you will find answers to the top questions about our school. Looking for an answer that isn’t listed? Get in touch with our team by emailing info@southbayclassical.org
About Classical Education
What is classical education?
Classical education is a time-tested approach that teaches children how to think, not just what to think. Through great books, Latin, logic, and the arts, students build strong foundations in reading, writing, and reasoning while developing character and a genuine love of learning. To learn more, download our Parents’ Guide to Classical Education booklet here.
Why does SBCA teach Latin? Will other languages be offered?
Latin is a cornerstone of classical education because of its remarkable benefits for young learners. Over 50% of English words come from Latin, and 90% of words with more than two syllables have Latin roots. Students who learn Latin build exceptional vocabulary, sharpen logical thinking, and gain easier access to Spanish, French, and Italian. Parents often tell us Latin becomes their child’s favorite subject. At this time, SBCA focuses on Latin as our primary language offering, but we will expand offerings in the middle and high school grades.
How is classical education different from other schools?
Classical education differs in several important ways. While many schools rely on textbooks, digital content, and ever-changing educational trends, classical schools use great books and primary sources with methods proven effective for centuries. Character formation and civic virtue are woven into daily learning rather than treated as afterthoughts. Students learn grammar, logic, and rhetoric as tools that work across every subject. Technology is introduced intentionally after students build strong foundations in writing and face-to-face communication. The goal is to teach students how to learn and think for themselves, not simply what to memorize for tests.
Is classical education too rigorous for young children?
Not at all. Classical education is designed around how children naturally learn and play. In the early years, learning happens through songs, stories, games, and hands-on activities that tap into children’s natural love of repetition and discovery. Students might act out historical events, recite poetry with movement, or explore nature while learning science. When children are engaged and delighted, high expectations become an adventure rather than a burden. Classical education understands that wonder and joy are the gateways to deep learning.
Will my child be prepared for middle school and high school?
Absolutely. SBCA plans to add one grade per year, eventually serving students through high school. Students who receive a classical education develop strong critical thinking, communication, and study skills that serve them well in any academic environment. Great Hearts Academies, our partner network, reports that their students score in the top 10% nationally on standardized tests, achieve SAT scores averaging 200+ points above the national average, and have a 98% acceptance rate to four-year colleges. The foundation your child builds at SBCA will serve them for life.
How does SBCA approach technology in the classroom?
We take an intentional approach to technology. Students first build strong foundations in writing, reading, and face-to-face communication before relying on digital tools. This does not mean rejecting technology entirely. It means using it thoughtfully and at the right time. Young minds benefit from developing concentration, penmanship, and direct human interaction before screens become central to their learning. When students have mastered these fundamental skills, they can use technology as a powerful tool rather than a crutch.
What if my child didn’t attend a classical school previously?
No problem. Most students entering classical schools are new to the model. Children are naturally curious and adapt quickly to our engaging approach. Our teachers are skilled at meeting students where they are and helping them thrive.
Admissions & Enrollment
What grades will be offered?
Kindergarten through 5th grade, with a grade added each year, starting with 6th grade in 2027-2028.
What is the application process?
Parents will apply through our online portal. After that, there will be a family interview coupled with an admissions assessment for each student (excluding incoming Kindergarten students). Following this, we issue an admissions decision generally within a week of the family interview.
What is the tuition?
Tuition is $21,000, but for families applying in our initial year, 2026-2027, there will be a $3,000 discount, bringing the total to $18,000.
Does SBCA offer financial assistance or scholarships?
Yes. Financial assistance is available to those families who qualify. Please apply online via the application.
What is the class size?
Classes are capped at 18 students, ensuring personalized attention and strong relationships between students and teachers.
School Day & Programs
What is the academic calendar for SBCA?
Please see the abbreviated academic calendar on our website.
What does a typical school day look like?
A typical day at SBCA includes instruction in core subjects such as mathematics, literature & grammar, social studies, science, and Latin. The day also includes time for art, music, physical activity, and recess.
What are the school hours?
8 am – 3 pm
Do students have daily recess?
Yes, there will be daily recess.
Is physical education offered?
Yes. Physical Education (PE) will be offered.
Does SBCA offer before or after-school care?
SBCA offers before-care starting at 7:30 am and after-care until 6 pm.
Does SBCA offer sports or extracurricular activities?
Yes. We will offer athletic programming via our partnership with 310 Sports, including basketball, soccer, flag football, and volleyball. We will also offer a variety of extracurricular activities through our Enrichment Program.
Does SBCA offer a lunch program?
We are currently working to offer a lunch program, contingent on having enough students and faculty who subscribe.
Is there a uniform or dress code?
All students will wear a uniform consisting of a white or black SBCA polo and uniform bottoms.
About SBCA
Where is the school located?
The school is located at 4755 West 130th Street in Hawthorne.
Who is on the SBCA leadership team?
The leadership team is composed of David Jackson (Head of School) and Rehan Bholat (Admissions Director).
We also have a board about which you can learn more by scrolling down to the following link.
What is SBCA's partnership with Great Hearts?
Great Hearts Academies is the leading provider of classical education in the U.S., serving over 30,000 students. This partnership gives SBCA access to proven curriculum, teacher training, and operational expertise. Great Hearts students earn over $70 million in college merit scholarships annually.
Is SBCA a religious school?
No, SBCA does not have a religious affiliation. Students of all faiths or no faith at all are welcome to attend.
Is SBCA a nonprofit school?
Yes, SBCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit school.
What security measures does SBCA have?
The safety of our students is a top priority. SBCA will have an armed security guard on campus and a monitored security camera system. The front and back gates of the school will be locked during school hours.
Other FAQs
How can parents get involved at SBCA?
We believe education works best as a true partnership between school and home. Parents are encouraged to be an active part of our school community through classroom visits, volunteer opportunities, and school events. Teachers communicate regularly with families and genuinely know each child. We walk alongside parents on their child’s educational journey.
How does SBCA communicate with families?
SBCA communicates with families in a number of different ways, including regular newsletters, emails, weekly communication from classroom teachers, and messages through our Veracross portal. We highly encourage personalized communication between families and the school.
What is SBCA's approach to discipline and character?
Character formation is woven into everything we do at SBCA. Through literature, history, and daily interactions, students explore themes of courage, justice, respect, and responsibility. We hold students to high expectations while treating them with dignity and kindness. Our approach to discipline emphasizes teaching and guiding students to make good choices, take ownership of their actions, and develop the habits of virtue that will serve them throughout their lives.
Does SBCA offer support for students who need extra help?
Yes. SBCA works with families to create accommodation and other individualized plans for students who need learning support.
Is transportation available?
This is something we will consider if there are highly concentrated areas from which parents are seeking support in transporting their children to school.