Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 21 In a quiet corner of Fredericksburg, something remarkable is hap- pening inside the classrooms and gardens of Lighthouse Academy of Fredericksburg (LAF). Known for its hands-on, project-based learning approach, the adolescent program at Lighthouse Academy is reshaping what it means to prepare students for college, career, and life. What Makes Lighthouse Academy Different? Led by Director Stacie McClung, the program serves students in grades 7–12 and is rooted in the Montessori philosophy, an educational approach that emphasizes experiential learning, independence, and appreciation for a child's natural development. Lighthouse Academy is Fredericksburg's only high school that blends Montessori education with a Christian foundation. "Students are instructed as individuals within a community," explains McClung. "This individual attention allows students to thrive in their areas of gifting, soaring to heights that their personal will and drive supports." Learning at Lighthouse Academy extends far beyond textbooks. They care for goats and chickens, monitor a working watershed, grow plants in green- houses, and explore renewable energy through wind and solar projects. "The sky's the limit for inspiration for projects, incorporating students of all ages. The main key and ultimate guide is learning to communicate effec- tively," says McClung. "The goal at LAF is to teach the core academics with excellence, while recognizing that academic success is a byproduct of a healthy well-rounded individual." How Is Student Success Measured? At Lighthouse Academy, work ethic plays a huge role in a student's success. They follow syllabi, manage their time, and discover how they learn best. Instead of traditional grades, assessment is based on effort and engagement. "This is true college prep," says McClung. "We value work ethic, not just in academics, but in community service, practical life skills, relationships and respect for themselves as well as the environment and their teachers." Instead of standardized tests, students demonstrate their understanding through project-based learning, connecting academic concepts in meaningful, real-world ways that foster creativity, communication, and perseverance. "Our curriculum is proprietary to our school, based upon 30 years of experi- ence," adds McClung. "We are accredited by ACTS (Association of Christian Teachers and Students) and exceed state standards of learning." How Do Students Grow and Lead? Adolescent students at Lighthouse Academy are active contributors to the school community. They serve as "big brothers and sisters" to younger students, lead campus projects, care for the grounds, sell handmade products, and participate in service work. "This year, we will also pursue internships and meaningful connections in our community to link students to profes- sionals in his or her area of interest," McClung says. The school also nurtures spiritual growth, creativity, emo- tional well-being, and self-awareness as essential parts of a student's development. Faith is woven into the school culture in a gentle and relational way, inviting students to explore their purpose with openness and grace. "Most importantly, LAF is a Christian school," says McClung. "Our focus is on building and guiding students in a relationship with God, not seeking perfection or atten- tion to works, but a tenderness of spirit, sensitivity looking into their own hearts and recognizing the value and honor of knowing that each life is created for worship and divine purpose." How Does Lighthouse Support the Whole Child? Social and emotional development is equally important. Through oral presentations, drama, small group discus- sions, and one-on-one conferences, students learn how to express themselves with clarity, confidence, and respect. Teachers are trained to support a wide range of learning styles whether students thrive through listening, doing, visualizing, or teaching others. "In the technologically charged environment today, the need for expanding beyond your own thought bubble and perspective into three-dimensional, sensory, social experi- ences is foundational and unique at the same time," says McClung. Creative expression is also built into daily life. Students write and perform original dramas, paint murals, and beau- tify their school environment through collaborative art and garden projects. "If a student has a dream for a project or creative inspira- tion, they are encouraged to communicate clearly and kind- ly and present a well thought out plan to the community and staff," says McClung. In a world that often prioritizes conformity, Lighthouse Academy encourages students to discover who they are and how they learn best, equipping them not only with knowledge, but also with purpose, independence, and self- awareness. "Students of all learning styles can thrive at Lighthouse Academy," McClung says. Enrollment is open now at Lighthouse Academy of Fredericksburg. Discover a brighter way to learn. Visit kid- slaf.com and schedule your tour today. Is There a BRIGHTER WRITTEN BY AMANDA DANAHER At the Answer Is Way to LEARN? YES

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