The Memoria Muse VOL. 1 EDITION 1
WINTER 2026
11 PAGES
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.
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.
Panoramic view of the Forum Romanum ruins at sunset (Canva Photos)
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.
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.”
“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
See p. 5 for an in-depth look at one of the forums!
The Inside Scoop on Your Favorite Educators
This edition of The Memoria Muse recommends three lesser-known stories to students. (Canva Photos)
Your Next Favorite Books: Explore 3 Book Recommendations
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.
A collection of old poetry books. (Canva Photos)
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.
What Happens to MA Students after High School?
Statue of Julius Caesar in Rome. (Canva Photos)
INTERESTED IN THE NEWSPAPER? JOIN THE JOURNALISM CLUB THIS SPRING! TO APPLY TO BE FEATURED IN ANY SECTION CLICK HERE. TO NOMINATE A TEACHER TO SPOTLIGHT CLICK HERE!
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!
DOCERE, DELECTARE, MOVERE