Education shapes the architecture of the mind. Will that architecture serve the true, good, and beautiful? Will it be oriented toward God? These are the ends of a classical, Christian education. At Dominion Academy, we call our K through 6th grade program the “Cathedral School” because cathedral architecture was developed in pursuit of the True, Good, and Beautiful– and ultimately, in praise of God.
The Architecture of Cathedral School
Portals
Portals are the doors to a cathedral—the place where the journey begins. At Dominion Academy, the Portals represent the core subjects that form the foundation of the Cathedral Program: Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science. Through strong instruction in reading, grammar, classic literature, Singapore Math, history and geography, and hands-on science exploration, students build the essential knowledge and skills that support the rest of their classical education.
Buttresses
The walls of the cathedral are supported by buttresses, usually made of stone. Their job is to reinforce the main structure of the building. At DA, the “buttresses” reinforce the portals. Buttress days both reinforce portals and the added components make the program soar to the heights of classical education. Buttress days both reinforce portals and the added components make the program soar to the heights of classical education.
Vaults
The vaults of a cathedral lift the structure to new heights, and at Dominion Academy, our Vaults allow students to soar in classical education. The STEM Vault engages students in robotics, computer coding, keyboarding, engineering, math concepts like probability and graphing, health and nutrition, and hands-on science and nature studies. The Humanities Vault develops creativity and expression through theatre arts, art, and music, helping students strengthen reading, vocabulary, writing, and comprehension while designing sets, props, and performances. Together, the Vaults expand learning beyond the basics, nurturing both intellect and imagination.
Spire
The spire, the pinnacle of a cathedral, symbolizes reaching outward and upward. At Dominion Academy, Spire Days on Fridays give students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom by exploring the local community and Christian culture. Through field trips, interactions with businesses and non-profits, and hands-on experiences, students see how language, math, science, and the arts come alive in the real world while deepening their sense of faith and service.
Student Life
Cathedral students at Dominion Academy enjoy being part of a vibrant school community filled with fun and engaging activities. Throughout the year, they participate in special events like Spirit Week, Family Movie Night, Taco Tuesdays, Character Book Day, and Night of the Arts. These experiences help build friendships, creativity, and school spirit while making learning even more enjoyable.
