Past Programs

Summer 2010, 2012, and 2013

Great Books Summer Seminars for High School Teachers:  "Citizenship and the Culture of Freedom"

In June of 2010, 40 of Georgia's finest high school teachers took part in a two-week Great Books Seminar.  Tackling a demanding curriculum--including works by Aristotle, Herodotus, Thucydides, Shakespeare, Adam Smith, and the Federalist Papers--the participants explored the origins of democracy in the ancient world as well as the emergence of modern forms of democratic government.  Participating teachers also learned how to integrate a Great Books curriculum and pedagogy into their own classes.  This inaugural program was made possible by a generous grant from the Walmart Foundation.

In June of 2012 and 2013, the Center ran the program again.  More than 100 teachers have now participated in this program.   They have come from across the Southeastern U.S. (and from as far away as Chicago!).

 

Here is a sampling of what participants have to say about the Summer Seminars:

"This has been one of the most stimulating educational experiences I have ever had."

"I am so excited to use primary sources in my class in a way which will educate students, but also make them think and question."

"Great Books can and will be done in my classroom."

"This is the best program I have been involved with as a teacher."

 

In 2013, the Center added a travel program for high school teachers, taking the inaugural group to Florence, Italy.  The program alternates between Florence and Athens, Greece.

Summer 2011, 2012 and 2016

Great Books Summer Program for High School Students: "Reflections on the Best Life"

In July 2011, a group of high school students took part in this one-week pilot program.  The curriculum featured discussion of several Great Books (including works by Homer, Plato, Aristophanes, Shakespeare, Rousseau, Hume, and the Bible), considering the question of the best way to live.  2011 participants received generous scholarships from the Walmart Foundation, which covered most of the tuition expenses.  A similarly successful program was run in July of 2012.

 

Here is what some of the participants have had to say:

"This was an amazing program!"

"The experience is something I will remember very fondly.  The skills I gained over this week will be beneficial for me for life."

"I met many great people here, and have truly enjoyed this week."