Emmanuel Christian School is pleased to be begin a new honors program using the Omnibus Curriculum for a select group of ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade students this year. It was the desire of the school administration to develop an intense program for advanced students to fortify their understanding and learning of history, theology, and literature. Mr. Matthew LaPine, a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, is teaching this pioneer class. Students follow a block schedule with Omnibus being taught for three straight periods. The students will follow the usual curriculum of math, science, and fine arts electives during the rest of the school day.
Omnibus is a Latin term meaning “all encompassing.” It combines the study of world history, literature, and theology giving students an appreciation for the unity of all materials and knowledge taught from a biblical worldview. Students will study the great works of literature and philosophy from the beginning of time to the fall of the Roman Empire. They will read from the Codes of Hammurabi and Moses, Gilgamesh, The Odyssey, Plutarch, The Aeneid, Julius Caesar, Herodutus, and Socrates, to name a few works and authors. It is the goal for students to improve their understanding and thinking and to develop skills in writing, logic, and aesthetics. Students will also study the Bible. It is a rigorous curriculum which demands a lot of reading.
The Omnibus Curriculum was started by Douglas Wilson who was convinced that history should be taught chronologically, integrated with biblically recorded events. The program uses the best books available on topics along with teaching materials. It was the opinion of the founder that the American education system is in shambles with too many discordant voices making demands upon school learning. To repair the ruins of the once great educational heritage, will also require committed parents, first and foremost. It is the parents who have the responsibility for the education his or her child. In Ancient Rome, failing to responsibly educate the child was a serious crime. Today many feel it is the role of the government or school to educate the child.
Many may feel that the readings are too demanding or advanced for high school students. However, years ago students studied at these levels. With history as a teacher, the pace is neither new nor too demanding. When children are challenged and succeed, they are blessed and joyful. It is the desire of the curriculum to arouse a passion for learning within each student.
When the Professor in C.S. Lewis’s well-loved book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is asked to help the children navigate a difficult problem, he exclaims, “Logic! Why don’t they teach logic at these schools?” The old Professor would be delighted with what is being taught at Emmanuel Christian Schools. The school has invested significant effort and funds to implement this curriculum. It is the expectation that these students will show improved scores on their ACT’s and be better citizens who are able to lead and navigate as they further their education in college and life.
