Great Hearts Philosophy and Approach
Great Hearts Academies are rooted in the tradition of Classical Education, and as such are defined by the ideals that such an education embodies. The founders of Great Hearts thought deeply about the high aims of that education, its due character, and the proper means for achieving the same. These ideas have been gathered over time and now exist here in written form as expressions of the foundational principles that govern Great Hearts.
Below you will find a collection of key documents that outline our educational philosophy, core values, and guiding principles. These resources provide insight into the vision and mission that shape our approach to teaching and learning, as well as the broader community we aim to foster. We invite you to explore these documents to better understand the foundation of our educational practices and how they inspire and support the growth of our students.


Great Hearts Philosophical Pillars
Read about the Great Hearts philosophies on teaching and learning, Great Hearts culture, and leadership.
Philosophical Pillars
Character Formation at Great Hearts
Read more about our core purpose, “to cultivate the minds and hearts of our students in the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty.” We believe that it is not enough for a school to merely educate the mind of its students; we believe that authentic education involves the whole person—mind, body, and heart.
Nine Core Virtues
The Teaching Playbook
Read about the role and practice of our best Great Hearts teachers.
The Teaching Playbook
Philosophy of the Disciplines
Explore the Great Hearts approach to the pedagogical and curricular arc of K-12 instruction in the different disciplines of study.
Philosophy of Disciplines
The Great Hearts Approach to Reading
The resources in this section provide general information and offer insightful guidance on teaching reading at Great Hearts.
Approach to Reading
Great Hearts Approach and Guidance
Learn more about our organization’s approach to technology, homework, state testing, Advanced Placement courses, and our philosophy of grading.
Approach and Guidance
Teacher Resource Portal
Click to access the curriculum and professional development resources in the Teacher Resource Portal (Brightspace).
Access the Portal