#United States #Louisiana #Lake Charles #classical education #Great Hearts

Great Hearts Lake Charles: A New Classical Academy for Southwest Louisiana

In an exciting development for education in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Great Hearts Academies has received approval to establish a new tuition-free classical school, Great Hearts Lake Charles K-3 Classical Academy. Scheduled to open its doors in August 2027, this academy will serve the youngest learners, starting with grades K-3 and progressively adding a grade each year. This marks the 54th academy for Great Hearts and the second to launch in Louisiana, following the successful opening of Great Hearts Harveston in Baton Rouge in 2023.

Great Hearts Academies is recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality classical education that intertwines strong academic foundations, character formation, and a lifelong love for learning. Co-founder Dan Scoggin expressed enthusiasm about this new addition, emphasizing the shared values of the Lake Charles community regarding character and educational commitment. He remarked, “Many families here value character and community, and we aim to provide an exceptional, tuition-free education that rivals the quality found in expensive private schools.”

The new academy will be located on a spacious campus of St. Luke-Simpson United Methodist Church at 1500 Country Club Road. This location will feature an expansive educational building, a full gymnasium, and beautiful outdoor spaces that encourage students to think, wonder, and engage deeply with their studies.

By introducing this classical curriculum to Lake Charles, Great Hearts seeks to instill the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in its students. During a special information session aimed at prospective families on October 17 and 24, 2026, attendees can learn about the academy's rich classical education ideals. This event will focus on the school’s pedagogical approach, including a strong emphasis on classic literature, engaging discussions, and fostering intellectual curiosity. Families considering enrollment are encouraged to reserve their spots as space is limited.

Scoggin further described the school’s mission, asserting, “This is a wonderful place that cares about character and families, and we want to be a part of that.” Dedicated to aligning with the community's values and educational needs, Great Hearts Lake Charles aims to be a cornerstone for families desiring a robust educational environment.

Enrollment for the 2027-28 school year will commence on October 23, 2026. Additional information about the academy and its programs can be found at lakecharles.greatheartsamerica.org.

Great Hearts Academies has positioned itself as the largest provider of classical PK-12 education in the U.S., serving over 30,000 students across 52 academies in Arizona, Texas, and Louisiana. Their curriculum prioritizes advanced academics, the arts, languages, and character development, all rooted in the timeless principles of classical education.

About Great Hearts

Great Hearts is a non-profit organization dedicated to cultivating thoughtful and virtuous citizens through classical education. With an emphasis on nurturing well-rounded individuals via stimulating academic challenges and character education, Great Hearts is poised to make a significant impact in the Lake Charles area. For families in search of educational excellence, Great Hearts Lake Charles is set to be a pivotal opportunity in the community's educational landscape.