In this episode of the Chesteron Academy St. Finbar podcast, Ms. Kaiser joins us to share how she’s bringing swing, line, and English country dancing to the PE curriculum at Chesterton Academy. It’s not just exercise — it’s a full-body lesson in grace, manners, and real social connection.

In today's short episode you’ll learn:

💃 Why learning traditional partner dance builds student confidence and respectful interaction

🎶 The music and styles behind the program (hint: lots of swing jazz and fiddles!)

🕺 How even the most nervous or inexperienced students can thrive with Ms. Kaiser's approach

Tune in to hear how Chesterton is turning PE into a celebration of tradition, fun, and social grace — starting on day one of the school year.

To learn more visit www.stfinbar.org.

Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a classical high school experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Our Catholic school fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose.

Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education. Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

In this episode, Mr. Tony Licari shares how his unique background—from teaching nuclear power in the Navy to leading English and Science at Chesterton Academy St. Finbar—shapes a powerful, structured approach to literature that helps even struggling readers engage deeply with the classics. He also explores how ancient science and myth tie into modern-day wonder and critical thinking.

In this short episode you'll learn:

🚀 How classical texts like The Odyssey and The Iliad can be demystified for every student

😳 The surprising & fascinating connections between physics, star-gazing, and literature

🔥 How structure-based teaching builds confidence in students—especially those intimidated by reading

Press play to discover how Mr. La plans to awaken both logic and wonder in the classroom this year through an integrated approach to literature and science.

Learn more about Chesterton Academy St. Finbar.

At Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Welcome to the Chesterton Academy St. Finbar's podcast where we seek to inspire and inform you about all the things related to the wonders of Classical Education through the lens of the Catholic Faith. I am your host, Laura Camacho.

In this conversation, Mrs. Emily French Kenny, our art teacher at Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, shares how integrating art and art history into a student’s curriculum helps develop not just skill, but character. In a world overwhelmed by utilitarianism and ugliness, could rediscovering beauty be the answer?

In this episode you'll learn:

✏️ Discover why learning to draw—even imperfectly—builds courage, discipline, and virtue

🎨 Understand how classical art education can shape moral character AND critical thinking

🔥 Why beauty matters, and how students connect history, culture, and faith through art

Hit play now to explore how a vibrant, beauty-centered music program is forming students for life—one note at a time.

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

In today’s episode, Dr. Valentino Piran, Music Director at Chesterton Academy of St. Finbar, shares how a foundation in classical and sacred music shapes not just students’ talent, but their souls, minds, and character—especially in a culture that’s starved for beauty.

In this episode you'll learn:

🎶 Why music and math go hand in hand—and how one enhances the other

🎯 How sacred chant can transform not just a choir, but a student’s confidence and sense of identity

🌎 How Dr. Piran’s journey from Italy to America opened his heart to diverse musical forms and how he’s bringing that gift to the next generation.

Hit play now to explore how a vibrant, beauty-centered music program is forming students for life—one note at a time.

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

In this episode, meet Ms. Rachel Willoughby, a dynamic educator bringing years of experience in faith formation and high school instruction to Chesterton Academy. She shares how subjects like Latin and Euclidean geometry go far beyond textbooks to shape students into thoughtful, confident, and articulate individuals.

We cover:

🔑 How classical education builds logical thinkers and confident communicators.

✅ Why Latin and Geometry are powerful tools for developing both language and reasoning skills.

🛠️ What families can do now to prepare for a smoother academic transition this school year.

Start listening now to hear how Ms. Willoughby plans to unlock your student’s full potential through faith, logic, and language.

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

In this behind-the-scenes episode, coach Patrick Lausi joins host Laura Camacho to reveal what’s coming in terms of sports as Chesterton Academy of St. Finn Bar prepares to open its doors. Athletics are key to reimagining education through the Chesterton lens of joy and truth.

Together they cover:

🧩 Why school sports are so important for the bodies and the minds of our young students

🤺 How fencing is often underestimated and yet this sport teaches not only physical fitness but emotional resilience and strategy.

🔑 What Coach Patrick Lausi brings to the new school in terms of professional fencing experience, passion, and training

Press play now to step inside the vision, values, and vibrant plans shaping this inaugural school year at Chesterton Academy St. Finbar.

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

In this behind-the-scenes episode, Headmistress Dr. Michelle McCoy joins host Laura Camacho to reveal what’s happening as Chesterton Academy of St. Finn Bar prepares to open its doors. From faculty selection to curriculum highlights and summer prep, get an exciting first look at how this school is reimagining education through the Chesterton lens of joy and truth.

Together they cover:

🎯 The subjects, structure, and guiding philosophy of the incoming freshman year

🧲 How the faculty was handpicked for their passion, experience, and ability to spark dialogue

🔑 About summer reading, integrated learning, and the power of original texts in forming young minds

Press play now to step inside the vision, values, and vibrant plans shaping this inaugural school year at Chesterton Academy St. Finn Bar.

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

As a conscientious Catholic parent or grandparent, you understand the critical need for an education system that not only imparts knowledge but also fosters character, faith, and joy in the next generation. The Chesterton Academy of St. Fin Bar, opening its doors in August 2025, offers a proven classical Catholic model that addresses the modern crisis in education by cultivating well-rounded, principled individuals ready to lead with purpose.

In this summer 2025 update with Mr. Michael MacKinnon you'll learn:

🌟 A Visionary Leadership Blueprint: How the momentum behind the opening Chesterton Academy St. Finbar's has accelerated

🔥 Faculty Updates: Head of School Dr. Michele McCoy has hired top-tier faculty ready to teach these new students from a classical, Catholic point of view

💡 How You Can Help: Hear from a board chair who turned a bold vision into reality, set to open this August

Play this episode now to gain exclusive insights from Michael McKinnon and fuel your leadership journey with the transformative power of classical education!

Each episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

For more information visit www.stfinbar.org.

Discover the revolutionary impact of Catholic education on the Feast of St. Albert the Great in an interview with Father Wilson parochial vicar at St. John the Baptist Cathedral in downtown Charleston.

This episode dives deep into a fascinating and timely topic: the role of faith-based education in shaping future leaders with emotional resilience, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to community.

This is about more than just schools—it's about a movement toward renewal and hope in a challenging world.

In this short episode Father Wilson shares:

✨ Learn how integrating faith and reason nurtures deeper thinking and fosters the intellectual development of young leaders.

🙌 Hear how the contagious energy of students inspires entire communities, sparking spiritual renewal across generations.

📖 Gain insights into the Chesterton model of education, blending tradition with innovation to produce academic excellence and spiritual growth.

Don’t miss this inspiring discussion on how a unique approach to education can create a ripple effect of transformation. Tune in now to uncover what could change the future for students, families, and communities alike!

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

As a devoted parent of a middle schooler, you understand that finding a high school aligned with your family's beliefs and lifestyle is a pressing challenge. The uncertainty around new schools, balancing costs, and commuting logistics can leave you feeling like there are no perfect options. 

This episode unpacks how one couple faced those same struggles and found an unexpected solution that strengthened their child’s education and faith journey.

In this episode you’ll learn:

🎓 Firsthand experiences that dispel concerns about choosing a new school and reveal how to vet its true values.

🙏 The importance of community and religious grounding that goes beyond academics to build character and lifelong connections.

🏫 The practical and unexpected advantages of classical education in preparing your child for a rapidly evolving, AI-influenced world.

Listen now to gain valuable insights that could change your perspective on high school choices and guide you to the right decision for your child’s bright, faith-filled future.

Discover how the Chesterton Academy of St. Finn Barr is revolutionizing high school education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Don't miss this chance to be part of an educational movement that blends the best of the past with the needs of the future!

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

In today’s fast-paced world, high-achieving leaders seek solid educational options for their children—options that instill not only knowledge but also resilience, faith, and a sense of community.

This episode dives into the exciting developments of St. Finbar Academy, revealing how much progress the school has made in preparing to welcome students in August, 2025:

🎒 The exact location of the new school and upcoming events to learn more about it

📜 How people in the Charleston community are responding to the new school to open next August

🌟 The trust about being part of a smaller founding class offering students unique leadership and character-building opportunities

Tune in now to discover how the Chesterton Academy of St. Finbar is revolutionizing high school education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Don't miss this chance to be part of an educational movement that blends the best of the past with the needs of the future!

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life. At Chesterton Academ St. Finbar , learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Welcome to the Chesterton academy St. Finn Barr's podcast, where we seek to inspire and inform you about all the things related to the wonders of classical education through the lens of our Catholic faith.

At Chesterton Academy, students aren't just learning subjects—they’re growing into virtuous leaders through the unique house system.

If you're a conscientious parent or leader looking for a school environment that fosters not just academic excellence but also the development of strong character, the Chesterton Academy house system offers exactly that.

Your child will be part of a close-knit community that teaches them how to grow in virtues, take ownership of their school culture, and develop leadership skills that last a lifetime.

Here’s what makes this episode a must-listen:

📚 Learn how the house system builds a strong sense of belonging while encouraging students to live out virtues in a practical, everyday way.

🏆 Discover how this system rewards students for virtuous behavior, building character through an innovative merit-based point system.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Find out how the entire family gets involved in the school community, making the house system a true extension of family values.

Get ready to hear how the Chesterton Academy house system can transform your child’s high school experience—listen to this episode now to learn how it fosters character, leadership, and joy!

For more information about Chesterton Academy St. Finbar visit https://www.stfinbar.org/

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Welcome to the Chesterton academy St. Finn Barr's podcast, where we seek to inspire and inform you about all the things related to the wonders of classical education through the lens of our Catholic faith.

In today’s episode Discover how Chesterton Academy’s day-to-day classes and activities uniquely prepare students not just for college, but for life.

In this short episode we look at: 

 🎯 How a daily rhythm steeped in tradition and reverence fosters unparalleled focus and discipline in students.

 🧠 Why starting the day with mentally demanding subjects and communal rituals cultivates a resilient, confident mindset.

 🎭 The way unique opportunities in drama, music, and the arts empower students to express themselves and build unshakable social confidence.

Press play to uncover a behind-the-scenes look at the student experience that’s redefining classical education and developing future leaders—don’t miss out!

Tune in now to discover how the Chesterton Academy of St. Finn Barr is revolutionizing high school education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Don't miss this chance to be part of an educational movement that blends the best of the past with the needs of the future!

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Are you ready to discover why it’s more relevant than ever?

This episode explores how classical education, often dismissed as elitist or irrelevant, offers a powerful, timeless framework that addresses the very challenges you face today.

By the end of this short episode you'll discover:

🧠 How ancient methods can fine-tune your decision-making process, equipping you to handle modern challenges with clarity and logic.

📚 How the great texts and teachings of the past are directly applicable to the strategic thinking required in today’s fast-paced business environment.

🏛️ Beyond skills, classical education builds the character traits—like courage, prudence, and temperance—that set extraordinary leaders apart.

Hit play now and uncover the surprising ways classical education can transform your approach to leadership—no candles or dusty books required.

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.

Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

In today’s fast-paced, fragmented educational landscape, many parents and educators are searching for a model that truly nurtures the mind and soul. Classical education, with its integrated, holistic approach, goes beyond standard learning by engaging students deeply in history, literature, philosophy, and the arts.

If you’re a parent, educator, or leader looking to provide a meaningful and comprehensive education, this episode will reveal why the Chesterton Academy approach stands out.

In today's short episode you'll learn:

📚 How Chesterton Academy's unique approach uses the trivium — grammar, logic, and rhetoric — to align with the natural development of the mind, fostering a deep and lasting understanding of knowledge.

🗺️ The power of teaching history chronologically rather than piecemeal, helping students see the interconnectedness of past events and their impact on today’s world.

🗣️ The transformative impact of the Socratic method, where students learn through rigorous questioning and discussion, building confidence, critical thinking skills, and a love for truth.

Press play now to uncover how Chesterton Academy’s classical education model can provide a rich, faith-driven foundation for future learning and success.

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose. Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education.

Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life. At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Traditional education methods often fall short in equipping students with the critical thinking and moral grounding necessary to navigate complex challenges. Imagine a high school that not only addresses these gaps but also reinvigorates the core principles of classical education through a Catholic culture lens, all while preparing students for the technological and societal advancements of tomorrow.

Today you meet Michelle McCoy, head of school for Chesterton Academy St. Finbar. She is a mom of many, an attorney and educator off all age levels.

Today you'll learn these gems and so much more:

1. What classical education is and how it connected to the history and traditions of the ancient cultures of Greece and Rome
2. Different ways classical education prepares students for the future
3. How STEM fits into classical education

In our world of chaos and confusion, classical education through the lens of the Catholic faith is a light to us.

Remember, if you want to ask a question to be answered on the podcast, email me at podcast@stfinbar.org.

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Our Catholic institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose.

Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education. Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.

Traditional education methods often fall short in equipping students with the critical thinking and moral grounding necessary to navigate complex challenges. Imagine a high school that not only addresses these gaps but also reinvigorates the core principles of classical education through a Catholic culture lens, all while preparing students for the technological and societal advancements of tomorrow.

In today’s debut episode you’ll learn:

1. The transformative power of classical education in developing well-rounded individuals who excel in intellect, character, and spirituality.

2. How integrating faith and rigorous academics can create resilient leaders ready to face contemporary challenges.

3. The unique benefits of a holistic curriculum that includes deep dives into literature, philosophy, math, and science, fostering a balanced and enriched educational experience.

Tune in now to discover how the Chesterton Academy of St. Finn Barr is revolutionizing high school education and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Don't miss this chance to be part of an educational movement that blends the best of the past with the needs of the future!

To discover more please visit https://www.stfinbar.org.

At Finbar Chesterton Academy of Charleston, part of the esteemed Chesterton Schools network, we are dedicated to offering a Classical High School experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Our Catholic learning institution fosters a joyful and rigorous learning environment where students are nurtured to become leaders and saints, inspired by a higher purpose.

Embracing the richness of the humanities, math, science, and fine arts, we emphasize the beauty of a well-rounded education. Through our Socratic teaching method, we cultivate an incarnational environment that champions truth, goodness, and beauty. Our unique House System and commitment to faith and spirituality, combined with our robust athletics program, create a holistic educational experience that prepares students not just for college, but for life.

At Chesterton Academy St. Finbar, learning is not just an academic pursuit; it is a journey toward becoming well-rounded individuals who appreciate the profound interconnection of all disciplines.