Immaculata Classical Academy Inc.

Overview

Immaculata Classical Academy Inc. is a Catholic educational institution located in Louisville, Kentucky, founded in 2010 by Michael and Penny Michalak. The academy is dedicated to providing a classical education that integrates students with special needs alongside their peers in a faith-based environment. It serves students from preschool through 12th grade and emphasizes a holistic approach to education, which encompasses academic excellence, character formation, and spiritual development.

Educational Philosophy

The academy follows a classical educational model, which is characterized by rigorous academic standards and a curriculum that includes the liberal arts. This approach is designed to cultivate wisdom and virtue in students, preparing them for lifelong learning. At Immaculata, special attention is given to the needs of all students, with approximately 15% of the student body consisting of children with special needs, including those with Down syndrome.

Immaculata's educational strategy features individualized instruction where students can progress through subjects at their own pace, allowing them to thrive according to their unique abilities. This model aims to foster an inclusive classroom environment where all students are respected and valued for their contributions.

Community and Inclusion

Immaculata Classical Academy prides itself on being a community that fosters belonging and mutual support. The school integrates students with diverse abilities, ensuring that children with special needs are not segregated but rather included in a nurturing and supportive learning environment. The Michalaks, in their role as founders, have expressed the belief that a classical education, which emphasizes beauty, truth, and goodness, is particularly beneficial for all students, including those with special needs.

The academy provides a unique witness in the broader educational landscape, particularly in its commitment to pro-life values. During events such as the March for Life, students advocate against the abortion of children with Down syndrome, highlighting the organization’s mission to affirm the dignity of every life.

Spiritual Formation

At the heart of Immaculata’s mission is a commitment to spiritual growth through daily prayer and the incorporation of Catholic teachings into the curriculum. The academy seeks to instill a sense of holiness and virtue in its students, grounding its educational practices in faith.

The school is also supported by a religious community known as the Sisters of the Fiat, who contribute to the educational mission, particularly in the context of serving students with special needs.

Conclusion

Immaculata Classical Academy Inc. stands out as an exemplar of inclusive Catholic education, combining rigorous academic preparation with a profound commitment to the spiritual and moral development of its students. The academy continues to grow and inspire other educational institutions by demonstrating that classical education can be both accessible and transformative for all students.