Can 'Classics' Program Survive in Modern Class?

How many voices of opposition does it take to change minds?

Several past, current and hopeful students of the Classics Academy at hope their voices may have been just enough to prevent the young program from being removed from the 2012-13 academic calendar.

Those students, and a parent, spoke before the Board of Education Tuesday night after hearing recently the program–which started as a pilot program two years ago–is in danger of being dropped by the Morris School District due to expected lack of interest.

In its third year, only six incoming seniors have signed up for the course, down from 13 in the 2011-12 school year and nine in its augural year.

According to the Morristown High School website, the Classics Academy is "a cross-curricular experience integrating English, History, Mathematics and Science.  

"Through the Classics Academy students explore the Greek and Roman civilizations through three core course and a series of suggested offerings. The Academy experience affords students the opportunity to study classical literature, history, mathematics, art, religion and philosophy. Students participating in the Academy learn to produce and consume new knowledge while synthesizing complex understandings of the human experience."

Morristown High School senior Alison Feldman said she was pushed by the program in ways she had never experienced as a student. "We learn what we like through the lens of the classics," she said. "It really does give our high school an edge."

The student said the supposed lack of interest might in fact be a lack of support and invited more discussion on the matter in hopes other incoming seniors that had not previously expressed interest may come forward.

Megan Kelly, a Classics major at Boston University and Classics Academy alum, said "this is an exceptional program that in no way should be cut.

"You were challenged in your opinions at all times," she said. "That was not an experience I had in the rest of my high school career."

Highlights of the education Kelly received, she said, included the ability to write a novel, a play, even a symphony. "It's not something the average 18-year-old gets to do," she said. 

As far as support, Kelly added, "look at how many people have shown up tonight?"

Superintendent of Schools Thomas Ficarra said, while everyone in the District loves the Classics Academy program, he was concerned that the number of students had dropped.

He said nine were selected for the inaugural class two years ago. When 13 signed up for the 2011-12 school year, everyone was optimistic the program was going to gain traction. This year, only six have signed up. "That gave us pause," he said.

"I urge you, get down to the guidance office and raise those numbers," Ficarra said. "Nothing is final yet."