Classical education is about molding the virtue and character of students through knowledge, Hillsdale Academy Headmaster Mike Roberts said in a panel discussion sponsored by the education department on Sept. 7.

In addition to Roberts, the panel featured Chairman of Education Benjamin Beier, Assistant Professor of Education Jonathan Gregg, and Assistant Provost for K-12 Education Kathleen O’Toole.

The panel discussed the college’s wide selection of options for students with any degree of interest in K-12 education to get real-world experience in the field.

Beier said the classical education minor provides many opportunities for students to get involved. Students interested in education can work in a real classroom environment while still on campus by serving as interns or apprentices at Hillsdale Academy. Beier also said the GOAL program has a great network for students who are considering a future in education. 

The panelists talked about classical education and how it differs from modern approaches to curriculum. 

Roberts said he has seen the positive effects of classical education within his own family.

“Four of my children have been through the academy,” he said. “It is a great way to learn how to think critically.”

Gregg said Hillsdale’s goal in education is to help shape students’ souls.

O’Toole said classical education anchors students in virtues that reach far beyond the confines of a school building. She has been at the forefront of Hillsdale’s charter school expansion, handling the arrangement and management of the Hillsdale-backed classical charter schools that have been growing in number.

Freshman Gia Coulthard said she attended the event because she is interested in classical education.

“Hearing from the K-12 panel reminded me of why I wanted to come to Hillsdale,” she said. “I want to help students grow into intellectual and moral leaders, just like how my teachers helped inspire me.”