The Memoria Muse Winter 2026

The Memoria Muse

VOL. 1 EDITION 1

WINTER 2026

FROM ROME TO MEMORIA: BUILDING COMMUNITY INSPIRED BY AN ANCIENT PLACE

By Audrey Olmstead

The Forum Romanum was the center of everything in ancient Rome The Curia made it the center of government, several temples (such as that of Saturn) made it the center of religious ceremonies, and the Rostra made it the center of communication, where countless famous speeches were given Not only that, it was an extensive marketplace and the heart of Roman social life But how does this relate to us in the 21st Century? The Forums at Memoria Academy were designed to be a similar social gathering place to the Forum Romanum

In each forum, students are guided by a master instructor in the exploration of meaningful topics The goal of the forums aligns with one of Head of School Dr Davis’ key objectives for Memoria Academy: building community “We want our students to have a place to interact outside the classroom and discuss things that matter with their peers, with a master teacher facilitating,” Dr Davis stated “We hope that by encouraging students to engage with great ideas, they will continue to do so when they leave our classrooms and into adulthood”

There are currently four forums offered at MA: Literature, Classics, Math, and the Journalism Club The Journalism Club gives students valuable experience in research, interviewing, and designing as they collaborate on writing a student newspaper The Literature Forum, under the guidance of writer and book-lover, Mrs Sheffler, is the perfect place for avid readers who enjoy discussing works of literature

The Math Forum explores mathematical theorems and gives students an appreciation of the skills involved Finally, the Classics Forum presents students with the opportunity to dive into works of philosophy that are not covered in other MA classes Despite the vast difference in the topics, the forums all have one common goal: encouraging a love for learning for its own sake, and not just when a grade is attached

S 5 f i d th l k t f th f !

Your Next Favorite Books: Explore 3 Book Recommendations

Are you looking for another tale of imagination and whimsy after finishing Anne of Green Gables? Or are you searching for a book by a lesser-known author whose debut novel of family and love will melt your heart? Or is it that you just can’t find another story that brings you that warm fuzzy feeling inside like Little Women did? The book recommendation section has three delightful tales for you to fill these wintery days at home! Grab a blanket and some cocoa because a family is sticking together during World War II, Sara Stanley has a unique storytelling ability, and a gathering of fairies are telling stories on page 3

“AS

STUDENTS LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON IN THE LIFE OF OUR SCHOOL, WE HOPE THEY WILL BE INSPIRED BY THEIR CLASSMATES AND TEACHERS AND PROUD TO BE A PART OF MEMORIA ACADEMY.”

-DR DAVIS, HEAD OF SCHOOL

The Inside Scoop on Your Favorite Educators

This issue’s teacher spotlight shines on three remarkable teachers: Mrs Sheffler, Mr Wolfe, and Dr Dray Each has focused a career on writing advice, building up students’ confidence, or inspiring excellence Their dedication reflects the very best of our school and the great impact of good teaching Readers can get a glimpse into the lives of these amazing educators on pages 8 & 9

of

What Happens to MA Students after High School?

Memoria Academy has been the launchpad to success for numerous graduates over the years In this feature of the Alumni Section, we showcase MA graduates Felicity Appelhans and Marcus Johnson, two powerful testaments to the inestimable value of a classical Christian education Hear their stories on pages 7 & 8!

Student Spotlight The Memoria Muse

Nick Shorey

By: Margaret Reeves

From martial arts to music to his academics, this 15-year-old Memoria Academy student in South Carolina is doing it all for the glory of God

At age five, Nick Shorey chose to attend mixed martial arts lessons due to his life-long love of trying new things What began as a childhood experiment has grown into a decade long passion, leading him to earn his first degree black belt in Taekwondo Nick says, “It’s knowing the difference from defending and attacking I just love being able to know how to defend myself and others”

Music, specifically contemporary worship, is another one of Nick’s passions Of the artists that influence his music, the two greatest are Josiah Queen and Phil Wickham Nick has written numerous songs in their style and dreams of releasing his own music someday He believes that his faith has grown the most through the music he listens to and writes

Nick dabbles in piano but primarily plays the cajon drum and acoustic guitar His guitar was actually an anonymous gift accompanied by a note in the case that read, “Learn to play this guitar, and it will change your life Learn to play this guitar for God’s glory, and it will change other people’s lives”

“SO, I JUST HAVE THIS RANDOM ACOUSITC GUITAR...AND NO IDEA WHO GAVE IT TO ME!”

Tilly Long

By: Audrey Olmstead

Tilly Long has been a Memoria Academy student since 2020

A resident of Texas, Tilly enjoys Taekwondo, running her small business (The Patch Cat), and being part of American Heritage Girls Incidentally, Tilly joined Taekwondo the same year she joined MA, receiving her black belt on December 12th, 2025 She applies tenets of Taekwondo courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit to every aspect of her life “Being in Taekwondo has helped me grow into becoming a Christian woman and a better believer because of the challenges it has put me through,” Tilly expressed

Currently taking five classes with MA, Tilly’s favorite subject is either composition or literature One thing she loves about Memoria Academy is her ability to complete schoolwork efficiently, allowing her development in Taekwondo and giving her family more travel time After high school, Tilly hopes either to attend the Air Force Academy to become a JAG officer or Texas A&M, majoring in psychology and pursuing

Life for Nick is not all about his extra-curriculars, though! His schoolwork is also very important to him His favorite subjects are math, engineering, and science He says that he sees engineering as a possible future career path Nick has been enjoying three classes with Memoria Academy this past semester His favorite things about online learning with live classes are the quick responses to questions from his teachers on the forums and the flexibility virtual homeschooling brings

Whether he’s one day singing his debut album to thousands or applying his intellectual expertise to the engineering world, Nick Shorey is undoubtedly destined for greatness and ready to follow wherever the Lord leads him

“BEING IN TAEKWONDO HAS HELPED ME GROW INTO BECOMING A CHRISTIAN WOMAN AND A BETTER BELIEVER BECAUSE OF THE CHALLENGES IT HAS PUT ME THROUGH ”

law school after graduating “My biggest career goal is to become a JAG Officer for the Air Force, travel the world for the military, retire from the military, open my own law firm and become a Domestic Violence Lawyer,” she stated “I know that a lot of things will not go my way, but I know that [God] will guide me in accordance to His own plan” Tilly uses her small business, The Patch Cat, to raise money for a car and college Her products, potholders, are sold at craft markets, mainly The Children’s Entrepreneurship Markets

As a member of American Heritage Girls (AHG), which she described as a Christ-centered character leadership development program for girls, Tilly is able to travel and meet girls from all over the country “AHG has given me the opportunities to experience things that I would not have been able to experience without it,” Tilly said For example, she was able to paddle down the Rio Grande and sleep under the stars for three days with AHG Additionally, Tilly’s mom created “Girls on the Go,” which includes Tilly, her sister (who takes composition with her), and their mom The trio has traveled to thirty-two states and aims to see all fifty by the time Tilly’s sister graduates from high school The program allowed Tilly and her sister to meet their best friend from Memoria Academy face to face for the first time

“ BUT I KNOW THAT [GOD] WILL GUIDE ME IN ACCORDANCE TO

HIS OWN PLAN

”

A MA student since 2020, Tilly lives in Texas but enjoys travelling the country with her family She uses the challenges faced in Taekwondo to grow as a Christian woman and is inspired by American Heritage Girls to lead service projects that help those in need

The Memoria Muse

Book RECOMMENDATIONS

Flower Fables

By: Raïssa Johns

Enshrined in the hearts of many children is the relevant story of four sisters’ maturity into womanhood, Little Women, by the beloved American novelist, Louisa May Alcott, and its subsequent sequels Yet lesser known and tucked meekly behind the fame of its celebrated sister is the book L M Alcott fondly referred to as her “first born”: Flower Fables, originally published in 1854 This collection of enchanting tales immersed in nature, fairies, and moral lessons was inspired by her family’s visits to Henry David Thoreau in Walden Woods It was originally composed for his daughter, Ellen Emerson, to whom she dedicates this book

The opening prelude in Flower Fables sets the scene for the tales to come the fairy folk repose under a summer moon and are requested by their Queen to each relay a story while the night drifts by Thence follows a set of nine fables, all with a moral to be heeded, each with a simple beauty to captivate the reader’s imagination, some told in prose, and others in poetry

A glimpse of their virtue is well illustrated through the little poem, Clover-Blossom Within this fable, an ugly worm begs shelter from a meadow of lovely flowers, until Spring clothes him in “fairer dress,” but is repulsed by all except the gentle Clover-Blossom Through the seasons, till Spring, Clover-Blossom patiently watches and trusts until a butterfly emerges from the worm’s cocoon and flies away While the unkind flowers rejoice at her misfortune, she droops, heartbroken by her friend’s departure. However, the butterfly soon returns, and to the proud flowers’ dismay, alights on the compassionate Clover-Blossom, giving her kindness’s reward So are the virtues of compassion, patience, and humility beautifully embodied in this fairy tale, and while the soul is satisfied in the moral of how brightly beauty can shine beneath an ugly and humble exterior, so is the imagination in nature’s personification and beauty

Thus are the stories of Flower Fables, a little book truly worthy to be cherished with lessons not only to be learned by the young but remembered by the old; its tales of beauty and innocence delight the hearts of all ages

A Place to Hang the Moon

By: Charlotte Leys

A Place to Hang the Moon, written by Kate Albus, is the heart-warming tale of three book-loving siblings, William, Edmund, and Anna, and their struggle to stick together through the dark days of World War II

Shortly after their grandmother passes away, these three already-orphaned children are desperately in need of a guardian When they are taken to the countryside along with all the other London schoolchildren, they are faced with the possibility of being separated The siblings manage to hold together, but as a result find themselves in less-than-ideal circumstances of cruelty and neglect However, the library offers the children a place of solace and love in these hard times Can they find a forever home together?

This story emphasizes the importance of love and loyalty in a family William, Edmund, and Anna would rather be together in hardship than apart in luxury. Eleven-year-old Edmund often finds himself in trouble, both earned and unearned, and when he is being bullied or mistreated, his siblings always stick up for him The children also find a friend in the librarian, Mrs Müller, who supports and loves them when no one else will People mistrust her because of her missing German husband, but she shows that there is more to a person than the cynical rumors would say People must be judged according to their own character

The Story Girl

By: Margaret Reeves

The Story Girl is an instantly nostalgic book that any lover of L M Montgomery’s storytelling will find irresistible

Set in rural Prince Edward Island, the book follows a band of cousins and friends through one golden, memorysoaked summer The leader of the group is Sara Stanley –the story girl – whose gift of storytelling turns the mundane into the extraordinary The book is creatively narrated by Beverley King, one of the cousins, as he looks back on his childhood summer with nostalgia The view of adult retrospect allows the story to play with both the childish feelings Beverley felt in those moments and the greater emotional impact they had on him

Montgomery’s classic will take the reader along with the cousins and friends as they have adventures, hear tales of family ghosts, and even make themselves sick to have better dreams! The story balances these moments of innocence and humor while also showing how children wrestle with the complexities of the adult world they are growing into The cousins and their friends struggle with jealousy, first loves, fears of death, and the conflict of the desire to be good amongst temptations to misbehave Montgomery’s writing addresses these difficulties of childhood with a special reverence for the personal and internal impact it has on the children This is where the brilliance of the tale truly lies

This is a precious tale that any book-loving children and even young-hearted adults will enjoy, featuring a reading list in the back that lists books mentioned throughout the story Common Sense Media recommends this book to readers ages 9+ for the wartime cruelty and neglect the children must face But cozy on up, and immerse yourself in the English countryside!

“LITERATURE IS A LUXURY; FICTION IS A NECESSITY.” G.K. CHESTERTON

This captures the novel’s most prevalent theme: that imagination is not simply a childhood game but a lifelong gift that some of us manage to keep, and others lose along the way

Especially for those of us who are moving towards big moments and changes in our lives, The Story Girl is a must read It reminds us that while we cannot return to childhood, we can carry its wonder with us And perhaps that is how Montgomery traps us in her tales – she takes us, only for a moment, back to the “fairyland” we once knew

At the end of the story, the reader feels, alongside Beverley, the pain of leaving behind a chapter of life that can never be fully recaptured Montgomery illustrates this feeling with this memorable quote from the book, “Only a few, who remain children at heart, can ever find that fair, lost path again; and blessed are they above mortals The world calls them its singers and poets and artists and storytellers; but they are just people who have never forgotten the way to fairyland”

L M Montgomery reminds us to treasure and hold onto our imagination past childhood through her precious book The Story Girl (your L M Montgomery story)

By: Gianna Nero

LEARNING FOR THE LORD

What is the Christian student’s role in education? Though seemingly minor, the job of schooling assigned to young children and teenagers is an essential area in their lives where they learn to grow in wisdom and knowledge, as well as to work diligently and with perseverance in learning about the world God has created

Virtue in Christ-Centered Learning

In Hebrews 12:1, Paul passionately exhorts us to “ run with endurance the race that is set before us” This race that Christians are in applies to every aspect of our lives Christians have a hope unlike any other people that encourages us We have reason to go on joyfully in everything we do, to please God Paul again tells us in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them”

For students, their main job in giving glory to God is through school, and with time, their spiritual growth will reflect the perseverance they have put into it God desires His children “to work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23); this applies to everyone at all stages of life, and specifically addressed in this paper, to the students of Memoria Academy

Seeking Sagacity

Solomon’s Plea for Wisdom

“LET OUR SEARCHING BE SUCH THAT WE CAN BE SURE OF FINDING, AND LET OUR FINDING BE SUCH THAT WE MAY GO ON SEARCHING ”

-ST AUGUSTINE, DE TRINITATE 9 1,1

When we earnestly appeal to God for wisdom and discernment, He will hear our prayer

1 Kings 3:5–13

[5] At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, “Ask what I shall give you” [6] And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day

[7] And now, O LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child I do not know how to go out or come in [8] And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude

[9] Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” [10] It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this

1 Kings is where the story of Solomon is recounted (Canva Photos)

[11] And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, [12] behold, I now do according to your word Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you [13] I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days

Solomon earnestly sought wisdom and valued it above all else We, too, must search for it, as it is worth far more than any earthly treasure In James 1:5, the Bible says: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him”

“LET US RUN WITH ENDURANCE THE RACE THAT IS SET BEFORE US ” -HEBREWS 12:1

S D apientia octrina ET

Perseverance is an important virtue for students to practice in order to excel in their vocation as students (Unsplash)

Perseverance in Study

Just as adults have jobs where they work to glorify God, so too do students as they study and learn, giving glory to God through their talents and efforts Students are to strive to fill their minds with what is good and true and beautiful, which above all is the Bible But we are also to be in awe of the intricate design of creation and to delight in it Knowledge and wisdom often go hand-inhand.

Knowledge is understanding; wisdom is using that understanding rightly We are to honor God by using our minds as gifts and developing character day by day However, while working diligently in school is beneficial, the ultimate goal should not be merely earthly success Growing our intellect will lead us to bring perseverance and integrity into our faith and lives

AN INTELLIGENT HEART ACQUIRES KNOWLEDGE, AND THE EAR OF THE WISE SEEKS KNOWLEDGE -PROVERBS 18:15

The Memoria Muse

ANCIENT PHILOSOPHY IN THE MODERN ERA: EXPLORING THE CLASSICS FORUM

Engaging with thinkers like Boethius provides young people with the tools to see the world clearly and articulate their experiences “Clarity of terms is the foundation of true statements,”

By: Audrey Olmstead

Co-authors: Gianna Nero and Michael Wright

In the contemporary world, opportunities to engage with timeless thinkers are providing students with clarity, purpose, and intellectual growth In Memoria Academy’s Classics Forum, students gather to explore the works of Boethius, a philosopher whose insights remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago

Mr Hanson noted “Our world is full of unclear terms For young people to be able to describe the world with clear terms, I think that would just do away with 90% of teenage angst ”

“The great thing about the works of Boethius is that every one is so compact that it's just an unending amount of reflection that can be done on very short pieces of his work,” observed Mr Hanson, the master teacher leading the forum

Twice a month students meet to discuss a passage from Boethius with Mr Hanson, actively conversing and even debating the topics Mr Hanson applies the text to relevant situations for the students, making it easy for students to see how they can apply Boethius’ philosophy to their own lives “The idea of Boethius being the embodiment of classical education through his work on the liberal arts is what I wanted to focus on,” he said

dare to be wise

More Relevant Than Ever

Mr Hanson explained the overarching goal of the group: “Just to read and understand Boethius Because he has something to say, and it's still relevant for us today And that’s a good in itself” For Mr Hanson, the value of studying classical philosophy lies in its ability to reconnect students with reality through the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty “We live in a very skeptical, very cynical society,” he said “Cynical means that we don't have the ability to know the truth and because we don't have the ability to know the truth, we don't have the ability to know what is good, nor what is beautiful”

Every student who attends a forum leaves with something valuable that they would not have received otherwise from a regular class Education is not just about grades, achievements, or learning how to learn Mr Hanson believes that “education is fundamentally edifying What is being edified in education is your intellect, is your ability to make judgements, is your ability to see how the world is connected in this intricate web of analogy” Boethius highlights the truth of this in his works Mr Hanson discussed the vital importance of a strong intellect built from the teachings of the wise; in this case, Boethius "The things being built inside of your intellect will endure unto eternity,” he stated “And that is a wonderful thing " When students truly take the time to learn what the ancient philosopher is saying, it will benefit their intellect, be ingrained into their mind, and cherished forever

SAPERE AUDE

“WHEN I READ THE BIBLE AFTERWARDS, THERE’S SOMETHING MORE BEAUTIFUL ABOUT IT I UNDERSTAND EVEN MORE HOW MUCH THERE IS TO GLEAN FROM IT”

-VALERIE MAYFIELD

The Impact the Classics Forum has on Students

THERE’S STILL TIME TO JOIN A FORUM OR CLUB, WITH MOST OPEN TO 7 - 12 GRADES. VISIT THE MEMORIA ACADEMY WEBSITE TO REGISTER! TH TH

In the spring semester, students in the Classics Forum will continue to study the writings of Boethius, such as his introductions to the Quadrivium Mr Hanson encourages students to join the forums, saying, “Once you take the pressure off of grades, exams, and essays, there is a lot more freedom of thought ” When they join the Classics Forum, students of today will encounter ancient philosophies, ideals, and morals that once shaped Christian civilization

"PHILOSOPHY IS THE LOVE OF WISDOM AND WISDOM IS THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE CAUSES OF THINGS "

-MR HANSON

Valerie Mayfield

Valerie Mayfield, who has been with Memoria Academy for four years, enjoys the casualness of the forum setting “It is fun and thought-provoking,” she expressed Although the reading is not very time-consuming, both Mr Hanson and Valerie emphasized how deep it is Boethius discusses topics undauntingly, and Valerie remarked, “When I read the Bible afterwards, there’s something more beautiful about it I understand even more how much there is to glean from it ”

The Memoria Muse

STUDENTArtwork

Interview with Aspen White

By Charlotte Leys

Aspen White, a freshman here at MA, is a blossoming young writer of mysteries and fairy tales. She knows the immense value to be found in stories that draw you in and leave you with deep truth She deeply loves the beauty of imagination, and among her inspirations are C S Lewis and Jane Austen

She writes children’s Christian books and is working on a teen advice book called TeenFYIs Aspen also teaches Sunday School at her church She wrote her own retelling of “The Ant and the Grasshopper” for her composition course at Memoria that she has shared here

Aspen shares her advice for other young writers She urges them not to give up, but “to focus in on what it means to you” She, like many writers, has experienced the dreaded writer’s block, but Aspen has learned that continuing to write is critical to overcoming it “A wise person who wrote books once told me, when you have a writing block, the worst thing to do is to stop writing” Patience and perseverance are key

Aspen also highlighted how animals in stories, a frequent feature of fables, add intrigue and accessibility to the underlying morals of tales It delights children and adults alike It also brings a twist on the expected human characters so that, in Aspen’s words, “it’s less same old, same old” This truly underscores the fact that the morals in tales like The Ant and the Grasshopper, although written in ancient times, are still applicable and are needed just as much now as they were when these stories were first told The beauty of such fables is their universal truths

High School Composition I leads stude through the first four stages of the Progymnasmata (Fable, Narrative, Chreia Maxim) to teach them the first essential sk storytelling and argument

Welcome to the Student Artwork Section!

Here creative works produced by members of MA’s talented student body can enjoy a moment in the spotlight Join us as we immerse ourselves in the rich world of poetry with Sophie Edwards and the charming realm of fables with Aspen White.

Th A t d th G h

Forest Musings

by Sophie Edwards

Brambles, bumblebees, toads, and thistles, So often dismissed with scoffs and whistles; Few are the eyes that see their worth, Yet magic hides in the exiles of earth

Thistles bristle with spears so cruel,

Yet bloom with crowns of purple jewel

Bumblebees sting with a sharp surprise, Yet gift us wax and honey’s prize

Toads are humble mosquito-slayers, Yet mocked as pests by careless players

Brambles bear fruit, both sweet and bright,

Yet are cursed as foes in many a fight.

There’s wonder in all, if only we see ---

In thorns, in fungi, in buzzing bee

But beauty, perhaps, is a perilous thing, For roses are severed for the joy they bring

Interview with Sophie Edwards

By Emmaleigh Nusz

Sophomore Sophie Edwards has been at Memoria Academy for the past five years Living in Washington state, she enjoys reading, writing essays, studying, baking bread and pastries, and spending time outdoors

Sophie began writing at age 11, often pulling from emotion and experience “I usually experience something that is very stirring, either the beauty of a sunset or something disturbing that has happened to me,” she says Influenced by George Herbert, Robert Frost, and J R R Tolkien, she combines elements of nature, faith, and reflection in her work

Her poem, “Forest Musings,” grew from a quiet moment among the brambles in a forest near her home “I realized in that moment that a lot of people hate brambles because they’re really rampant here in Washington,” Sophie explains, “But I noticed the beautiful parts of it even though they are spiny and painful, they hide some beautiful things”

Through “Forest Musings” Sophie encourages readers to “slow down in life, to look past what may be seen immediately as ugly or scary, and try to see the beauty that lies beneath it ”

To young, aspiring poets, she offers this advice: “Don’t try to focus too much on the structure or the meter take advantage of any strong emotion you have, put it into paper and look deeper about what you’re feeling or what you see”

Would you like to see your piece of art featured in a future edition of The Memoria Muse? Click HERE to apply!

by Michael Wright

ALUMNI FEATURE

Felicity Appelhans STEM major

Felicity Appelhans, a former Memoria Academy student and a current STEM major at the University of Delaware, exemplifies the enduring value of a robust academic foundation Her journey to college-level excellence is a testament to the habits, discipline, and intellectual framework cultivated during her years at MA Her narrative helps to serve as a bridge between the realm of classical learning and the contemporary demands of scientific study During her high school years, Felicity exhibited a profound fascination with the natural world

“I am exceptionally passionate about sciences, particularly biology,” she stated “My freshman biology course in high school marked my first exposure to the subject, and I was immediately captivated by its intricacies and the comprehensive experience it offered ”

This initial spark of excitement has since evolved into a clear career goal: Felicity aspires to work in quality control or quality assurance,

ideally within a laboratory environment that intersects with pharmaceuticals or engineering applications She thrives on the tangible and methodical nature of laboratory work, where precision and rigor are paramount

What distinguishes Felicity from her fellow alumni classmates is not only her determination to work but also the foundation she acquired through MA’s classical curriculum She attributes her advanced reading comprehension, analytical mindset, and disciplined approach to MA’s rigorous demands These acquired skills have enabled her to engage deeply with technical literature, adhere to intricate lab protocols, and confidently navigate challenging assignments

“It definitely set me far above in reading comprehension and just generally being able to follow instructions,” she said She stressed that this was as much a part of the sciences as it was in other more literary fields

“THE FUNCTION OF THE UNIVERSITY IS NOT SIMPLY TO TEACH BREADWINNING, OR TO FURNISH TEACHERS FOR THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS, OR TO BE A CENTER OF POLITE SOCIETY; IT IS TO BE THE ORGAN OF THAT FINE ADJUSTMENT BETWEEN REAL LIFE AND THE GROWING KNOWLEDGE OF LIFE, AN ADJUSTMENT WHICH FORMS THE SECRET OF CIVILIZATION ”~W E B DU BOIS

For current students especially those coming from homeschool or classical backgrounds Felicity emphasizes the importance of discipline, engagement, and personal growth

“Pay attention to lectures,” Felicity urged “Otherwise, you’re just wasting your time there”

She further advised avoiding cramming, which can result in poor information retention Instead, she suggested utilizing the years of homeschooling to cultivate personal growth in memorization and

character development and to participate in extracurricular activities rather than solely concentrating on college transcripts

Today, Felicity Appelhans stands as proof that a classical education can serve as a powerful launchpad into college From Memoria Academy’s classrooms to the demanding halls of STEM academia, she possesses not only technical knowledge but also the character, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity to thrive She encourages students to embrace both their studies and the personal growth that accompanies them, recognizing that the combination can lead to extraordinary possibilities

Felicity is candid about the reality of STEM studies: long hours in the lab, demanding exams, and the humility that comes with not always earning perfect grades Yet she believes that her classical education fostered an inner resilience and perspective that serves her well

Felicity also shared about the integration of her faith in scientific endeavors She perceives science not as a contradiction to her beliefs, but as a field that enhances her appreciation for the creation

“A

“You can be an ethical Christian scientist,” she said. “The more I’ve learned about the intricacies of science, the more it shows that God exists The chances that this is all random are so minimal It’s such a beautiful creation”

"THE

MORE I STUDY NATURE, THE MORE I STAND AMAZED AT THE WORK OF THE CREATOR SCIENCE BRINGS MEN NEARER TO GOD ” LOUIS PASTEUR

TEACHER AFFECTS ETERNITY; HE CAN NEVER TELL WHERE HIS INFLUENCE STOPS. THE EDUCATION OF A MAN IS NEVER COMPLETED UNTIL HE DIES, AND EVERY EXPERIENCE, EVERY CONTACT, EVERY CHALLENGE ADDS TO THE SHAPING OF HIS MIND AND CHARACTER ” -HENRY ADAMS

Mac Johnson Alumni Feature Continued

By Emmaleigh Nusz

Class of 2023

At just twenty years old, Mac Johnson is already deep into a rigorous double major in Computer Science and Mathematics at Baylor University. A Memoria Academy student from middle school through his 2023 graduation, Mac credits his classical education with giving him both the academic advantage and disciplined study habits that set him apart in college

“Memoria Press really set me up for college,” Mac reflects, “I was able to get ahead of the normal high school track and build up a bunch of college credit ”

That early momentum allowed him to pursue two majors, something he describes as “kind of crazy” but also rewarding One teacher in particular, Mr Maycock, Mac’s geometry and precalculus teacher, influenced his path into mathematics, Mr Maycock’s encouragement was instrumental in Mac’s decision to study math Mac also points to his chemistry course as a turning point in developing the habits he uses today

“That was the first class that really made me understand note taking and studying techniques It was kind of the pivotal point where I went from taking no notes to all these beautiful notes”

His study habits made the transition to college “much less big of a deal because I had that studying experience” Even in a technical field, Mac finds his classical background invaluable, influencing him and everything he does “Knowledge is a virtue,” he says, “Even though I’m not using Latin in my everyday life, it’s so beneficial to have it ”

As Mac navigates the world of modern technology, he finds himself shaped by the classical foundation he received at Memoria Academy The discipline, logic, and love of learning there continue to help him through college courses and projects His path is a reminder that classical education is not a thing of the past, but a foundation in equipping students, even in the most technical fields of the present

KNOW MEMORIA ACADEMY ALUMNI? SHARE THEIR STORIES! WE LOVE CELEBRATING THE JOURNEYS OF FORMER STUDENTS! CLICK THE APPLICATION LINK ON THE FRONT PAGE THEY COULD BE FEATURED IN OUR NEXT ISSUE!

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: TEACHER SPOTLIGHT

Interview with Dr. Dray

By: Audrey Olmstead

Dr Kevin Dray is one of Memoria Academy’s most beloved teachers A native of Oklahoma, Dr Dray still resides there with his wife and two children Although he never intended to teach, Dr Dray has been teaching a variety of subjects in numerous schools since 2000

We had the opportunity to interview him recently and discuss what led him to teach, what his thoughts are on being such a well-known teacher at Memoria, and more!

What are your thoughts on being such a wellknown and well-loved teacher in MA?

“It is humbling, but it is also gratifying to know that you put in the time and get good at what you do and someone will notice God will bring the right people along to notice and appreciate that I am deeply appreciative that this is how I can provide for my family, and this is the way God has equipped me to do that ”

“YOU PUT IN THE TIME AND GET GOOD AT WHAT YOU DO, AND SOMEONE WILL NOTICE.”

students anymore, and they don't get sick from me You can't catch anything from me, and I can't catch anything from you”

“AT SOME POINT, GOD HITS YOU OVER THE HEAD WITH IT”

What inspired you to teach?

“I had no intention of teaching when I went to college right out of high school I was an accounting major, but that only lasted about a semester, and I realized I didn’t want to do that I had several people tell me, ‘You know, you ought to consider teaching,’ and so I majored in English I ended up going to seminary and went into ministry, but through all of that, I'm still teaching, and the professors are going, ‘You need to teach That's what you need to be doing’ At some point, God hits you over the head with it [So] I taught at the collegiate level for about a year and realized that I needed to move down because when I was getting them, they couldn't write things like sentences and paragraphs They had not been taught what they needed So I moved down a level to kind of still shape students that were still shapeable And that was about when I got here” What

What is your favorite book or author? Is there a book you would recommend to students?

“All Quiet on the Western Front is a 20th century novel about World War 1 My great-grandfather was set to go to Europe at the end of WW1, and his mother died of the Spanish Flu (the last pandemic we had before this last one), and so he ended up staying stateside, which is why I’m here All Quiet on the Western Front is a difficult read It is World War I from the German perspective That was a big one for me”

The Memoria Muse

Teacher Spotlight Continued

Interview with Mrs. Sheffler

By Josh Kim

Mrs. Sheffler is a newer teacher at Memoria Academy, teaching eight classes in Literature and Classical Studies for two years now

What are the benefits and the challenges of online schooling?

Mrs Sheffler appreciates that parents can oversee their children more closely even as teachers guide them Flexibility and a comfortable teaching space are also an upside Still, Mrs Sheffler noted, “Not being able to see them face to face does have its challenges” Without reading emotions or noticing a bad day, forming connections is harder “I'm there to fill a knowledge gap, but I'm not the ultimate decider of what happens here”

Mrs Sheffler’s book of faith and wonder

Mrs Sheffler is the author of Past Watchful Dragons: Biblical Stories Retold She explained that small details in Bible stories can shift how we see them, and her goal was to capture that in her writing She drew inspiration from authors like C S Lewis, as well as her own love of dragons In her book, she sought to restore the symbolism of dragons as fierce, powerful creatures in Western culture

Classical tradition played a key role in the creation of her book “I was given a strong classical education: Latin, history, and the traditional structure of story That foundation shaped me as a writer My love of dragons and fairytales grew from it, and I would not be the writer I am without it Classical learning taught order, pattern, reason, and beauty My book reflects that: vibrant, carefully crafted, read and refined countless times in pursuit of beauty”

What advice do you have for young student writers? Any tips for them creating their own books?

“It's not going to be what you want it to be, the advice Write a lot Write really badly So I want you to think that you have a lot of good things to say, but you're not going to know how to say them well for a long time So you have to write a lot It's the same advice I would give to someone who wants to play piano Practice a lot, practice poorly, and then practice better”

Interview with Mr. Wolfe

By Brynn Botts

“YOUR LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE OF IT, AND YOUR EDUCATION IS WHAT YOU MAKE OF IT, ONLINE TEACHING IS NOT A PODCAST THE MORE ENGAGED YOU ARE, THE MORE YOU’RE GOING TO GET OUT OF IT”

What brought you to Memoria Academy?

While teaching at a state university in Michigan as a graduate student, Mr Wolfe first encountered Memoria Press curriculum namely, the Dorothy Mills history textbooks, which he began incorporating in his Western Civilization course Ultimately, teaching at the college level proved a disappointment

“It became clear to me that a lot of the students at this typical state university were coming in as freshmen, as Christians, believing more or less what their parents had taught them and their ministers and so forth, and then they’re graduating as seniors without any belief in anything”

“So then I became convinced that my calling was to teach high school level where I could properly equip them before they go out into the broader world”

“TOO OFTEN

MODERN WRITERS DECONSTRUCT STORIES WITHOUT THAT FOUNDATION, LEAVING CHILDREN UNABLE TO FORM VALUES OR IMAGINATION IMAGINATION SHOULD BE SHAPED BY TRUTH, GOODNESS, AND BEAUTY”

In this insightful interview, Memoria Academy’s soldier-scholar, Mr Wolfe, shared with us personal background information and profound nuggets of practical wisdom

What inspired you to teach?

“Teaching is probably the last thing that I would have thought that I would’ve ended up in,” Mr Wolfe admitted But luckily for MA’s students, teaching seems to have been ingrained in his DNA Both of Mr Wolfe’s parents worked full-time as German professors “I guess it just kind of rubbed off on me,” remarked Mr Wolfe

Even while serving in the United States military, Mr Wolfe leaned into his passion for teaching One such case was in 2020 when Mr Wolfe was called up from the Navy Reserve to serve on a COVID-19 Quick Reaction Team in Japan The only person stationed at his base, Mr Wolfe took advantage of weekly Zoom meetings with the other bases to teach those who were interested Sitting in a hotel room for seven months, Mr Wolfe expounded upon ancient Greek and Roman warfare, a class which he has since taught here at MA

“YOU WILL NEVER HAVE AS MUCH TIME AS YOU DO NOW DON’T WAIT FOR LIFE TO HAPPEN, START MAKING IT HAPPEN RIGHT NOW.”

What are your favorite classes to teach?

Mr Wolfe shared that he has surprised himself by enjoying logic classes“Even though ancient history

(Classical Studies I) is really near and dear to my heart, I have to say Classical Rhetoric is my favorite class to teach”

Mr Wolfe compares this capstone of MA’s logic curriculum to Psychology 101, Philosophy 101, and even Defense Against the Dark Arts

What are the benefits of online education?

Mr Wolfe divulged several practical upsides that online teaching facilitates, such as flexibility for family life With online teaching, the commute is quick and the coffee close at hand

But Mr Wolfe also appreciates the diversity of experience cultivated by students participating from all across the globe

“Being exposed to people from every time zone, every continent is something that’s really unique to online teaching”

What is one book that has been really influential to you?

A historian by trade, Mr Wolfe invariably gravitates towards the first historian, Herodotus “Herodotus keeps that idea not only that history should be a story, but also that there is a moral purpose operating in the world”

To any MA student, Mr Wolfe emphatically recommends Herodotus’ On the War for Greek Freedom, a textbook that truly brings the past to life

The Memoria Muse

FRIENDSHIPS AROUND THEWORLD

HOSPITALITY MEETS ADVENTURE

By Michael Wright

In the midst of high school, bonds often form in the most unexpected places For Victoria Cutrer and Louisa Turner, their friendship began quietly, growing from shared classes and a mutual love for literature and the classics, yet it evolved into an unshakable connection

Victoria and Louisa first became acquainted with each other through a group chat Their friendship blossomed in Mrs Dewberry’s ninth-grade literature class, where the two discovered a shared passion for reading and independent learning Their paths crossed again in history class, providing further opportunities for conversation and collaboration

Their collaboration extended beyond simply sharing notes When Victoria found herself unprepared for a test, Louisa stepped in to help her get ready These moments of mutual encouragement forged a partnership built on trust and understanding

From there, their bond quickly deepened They began meeting outside of class to work on literary assignments, study together, and support one another academically When either faced personal or academic overwhelm, the other was quick to offer support “Sometimes [ ] when I would have like 20 tests in one day because I take way too many classes, we would help each other study,” Victoria explained

Soon, a tradition developed: while discussing a book in literature class, the two would call each other and watch a film adaptation This became a cornerstone of their friendship

In December of 2024, Victoria went with her mother to Hong Kong to visit Louisa, who was graduating that spring Victoria shared her appreciation for Louisa’s energy, noting, “The fact that she matches my energy on things is just so cool, and that's the type of friend that you want ”

Now, Victoria and Louisa’s friendship stands as a testament to how shared interests, consistent support, and a little bit of laughter can create a bond that withstands the pressures of teenage life Together, they have transformed study sessions and film nights into a foundation for a lasting connection that both friends continue to cherish

FROM AMERICA TO AUSTRALIA

By Josh Kim

Members of a newer friendship of only a few months, Keziah Eve Richards from Australia and Annebel Harrison from California have never met in person, but they enjoy a distancedefying connection

The two first connected in their composition and algebra classes After reaching out to one another, they clicked immediately, encouraging each other and even helping each other with schoolwork

Has being in a long distance friendship taught you anything about communication or trust?

“Time change, definitely time change,” Annebel said “It’s one of the worst things to calculate, but it is what it is I think it’s nice to be able to call someone who goes to the same school as you, whether they’re far away or not, and just do the same subject together even though we’re so far apart ”

How does their friendship motivate or inspire you in school or in life?

“Maybe to try to be more myself, every single day,” Keziah Eve shared

What are the pros and cons of a long distance friendship? Meeting online motivates Keziah Eve and Annebel to stay on track with school Even though their friendship is mostly virtual, they’ve created their own traditions calling each other, dressing up in costumes, and finding fun ways to stay connected They support one another through both the good and the difficult moments

What advice would they give to others trying to build strong friendships online?

“Just be yourself,” Keziah said “Don’t make up things you don’t like If the other person likes the color blue, you don’t just say, ‘Oh, I like the color blue too,’ just to start a friendship Don’t say something that isn’t actually you Nobody likes that ”

By: Joshua Kim

LITTLE musers musers

SECTION

THE WISE YOUNG KING

Solomon was young when he became king after his father, David Imagine being in charge of an entire nation while you’re still figuring out life yourself; that’s a lot of pressure! Solomon knew he couldn’t do it alone, so instead of chasing after money, food, or entertainment, he turned to God

Jokes & Riddles

Who is the Greek god of children’s books?

What was Diogenes favorite thing to mold?

What is the difference between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt?

At night they come without being fetched By day they are lost without being stolen What are they?

Say my name and I disappear What am I?

What goes on four feet in the morning, two feet at noon, and three feet in the evening?

One by one we fall from heaven down into the depths of past, and our world is ever upturned so that yet some time we’ll last What are we?

If a man carried my burden He would break his back I am not rich, But leave silver in my track

Until I am measured I am not known, Yet how you miss me When I have flown

Three lives have I Gentle enough to soothe the skin, Light enough to caress the sky, Hard enough to crack rocks

One night, God appeared to Solomon in a dream and said, “Ask me for whatever you want ” That’s like having the ultimate wish granted Most people might ask for riches, fame, or power But Solomon didn’t He asked for wisdom, the ability to make good decisions and lead his people fairly God was pleased by his answer

By: Gianna Nero

Because Solomon asked for wisdom instead of selfish things, God gave him wisdom greater than anyone else And as a bonus, God also blessed him with wealth and honor

From then on, people traveled from faraway lands just to hear Solomon’s wise words He became famous for solving tough problems and making fair judgments

Classical for the Greek enthusiast

So let us, too, be like Solomon and seek God whenever we need help in this upcoming year and with hard things in school, never forgetting to turn to Him in thankfulness!

PROVERBS 2:6: "FOR THE LORD GIVES WISDOM; FROM HIS MOUTH COME KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING"

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Across:

1. law in Athens banishing a citizen for ten years

3. time of Greece described in the writings of Homer

4. “Father of History”

6. Greek philosopher

7. Greek wrestling school

10. greatest of Athenian orators

17. famous writing of Plato

18. wise man and archon of ancient Greece

19. famous play by Sophocles

20. capital of Persian empire

21. chief nymph of the gods

22. largest island in the Aegean

Sea

23. daughters of Zeus

Down:

2. part of the Persian army always containing ten thousand men

4. three-handled vase for water

5. the appearance of a god to solve a problem at the end of a play

7. god of the sea

8. "the only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing"

9. Greek city-state in Peloponnesus

11. Athenian admiral

12. king of Macedonia

13. Greek city-state

14. marketplace in ancient Athens

15. Greek statue featuring only the head

16. author of the Iliad and the Odyssey