Jefferson Classical Academy of Ohio
A Tuition-Free Classical Online Academy for Ohio Families
K–8 students. Timeless values. Modern flexibility.
Jefferson Classical Academy of Ohio delivers a classical curriculum that builds critical thinking, character, and curiosity. It’s led by Dr. Bill Bennett, former U.S. Secretary of Education and author of The Book of Virtues.
Who This School Is For
If you’ve been searching for a values-driven, content-rich alternative to public education, you’re in the right place.
- Parents who want order, structure, and depth
- Families frustrated by one-size-fits-all classrooms
- Students who thrive on stories, discussion, and meaning
- Homeschoolers looking for expert guidance and community
- Children ready to think, not just memorize
Meet Dr. William J. Bennett
Dr. Bill Bennett is the Provost of Jefferson Classical Academy of Ohio. He served as U.S. Secretary of Education under President Ronald Reagan and is the author of The Book of Virtues, which has sold more than six million copies.
Dr. Bennett’s career has been focused on one mission: to restore meaning, moral clarity, and academic rigor to education. At JCA, that mission is alive in every lesson plan, every reading list, and every classroom interaction.
“You can no more invent a new virtue than a new color. These are things that last.”
What Classical Education Looks Like Online
We follow the Trivium, a time-tested learning model built in three stages:
- Grammar (K–4): Learn the facts, master language, absorb knowledge
- Logic (5–6): Ask questions, evaluate arguments, connect ideas
- Rhetoric (7–8): Speak clearly, write persuasively, lead with confidence
This is not passive screen time. Students engage in deep reading, Socratic discussions, and written expression. They work online and offline with plenty of quiet thinking, paper, and pencil.
Curriculum Overview
Core Subjects
- Literature and Writing
- History
- Math and Science
Enrichment
- Art and Music
- Physical Education
- Virtues-Based Instruction
All aligned with Ohio learning standards. All delivered by certified teachers trained in classical methods.
What to Expect as a Parent
- Live classes daily
- Lessons that are structured, not rigid
- Teacher communication through office hours and email
- A parent dashboard for grades and updates
- A school culture that values discipline, respect, and excellence
A Day in the Life
-
1
Morning
- Live literature or history lesson
- Offline reading and response
-
2
Midday
- Latin or logic
- Socratic dialogue or small group discussion
-
3
Afternoon
- Enrichment (art, music, physical activity)
- Study, tutoring, or review time
Key Dates for the 2025–2026
School Year
- First Day: August 21, 2025
- Last Day: June 5, 2026
- Thanksgiving Break: November 26–29
- Winter Break: December 22 – January 2
- Spring Break: March 23–27
- Other Holidays: Labor Day, Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth
- Parent Conferences: November 6 and February 3
- State Testing: Held in-person during fall, winter, and spring
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. JCA is a public charter school and completely free for Ohio families.
Students attend live sessions multiple times each week. Recordings and independent work allow for flexibility.
No. A large part of the curriculum happens offline with real books, paper, and thought-provoking assignments.
Teachers monitor progress weekly. Support, tutoring, and adjustments are provided early.
Jefferson Classical Academy of Ohio loans a Chromebook to all students, so they have the necessary hardware and software for online learning. It allows for access to their online education platform and the ability to participate in online classes and assignments. Students also receive support for using the Chromebook, including a resource website and tech support options.
Yes. Students participate in live discussions, optional clubs, and receive consistent interaction with teachers and classmates.
More Than an Online School.
Jefferson Classical Academy of Ohio is a return to what education was meant to be.
