A Day in the Life of an Upper School Scholar

Hello, I’m Katie, a sixth-grade scholar at Innovate Academy, and I’d love to share a snapshot of my year so far.

One of my favorite things about school is acting. For our Winter Showcase, I wrote and performed a monologue as Theodora, the wife of Emperor Justinian of the Byzantine Empire. I also enjoy singing, so in band we studied Christmas carols and worship songs that we later performed in concert. Learning music theory and the stories of great composers has been interesting, but standing on stage and sharing what we learned was even better.

I have also discovered that I enjoy debate. In Apologetics this year, our class discussed questions like, “Is it narrow-minded to believe there is only one way to heaven?” and “How should Christians respond to hypocrisy in the church?” These conversations have helped me think more carefully about what I believe and how to explain it with respect and clarity. My parents sometimes notice that I practice these skills at home as well, which reminds me that wisdom matters as much as argument.

Science has become another subject I truly enjoy because it balances logic and creativity. In Earth Science, I learned how lava flows create gems that are valuable largely because they are beautiful. Studying the natural world has shown me that creation is not only scientific but also poetic. The way water refreshes us or a bird’s song lifts our spirits reminds me how diverse and ordered our planet is. I want to understand both the world and my place in it.

Intellegisne? That is Latin for “Do you understand?” Latin and coding are two of my favorite classes. Latin connects me to the language of the past, while coding prepares me for the language of the future. Learning both makes me feel equipped for whatever God calls me to do.

Of course, rigorous study and activities can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why I appreciate our Wellness course. This year I experimented with healthier baking using oat flour and almond milk, and I focused on activities I love—swimming, dancing, and yoga. I also learned how to create daily rhythms so I can balance friendships, work, and rest without feeling drained.

History at Innovate Academy is meaningful because we study one time period across all our subjects. This helps me think more deeply and connect ideas. While reading the tales of King Arthur in Literature, I thought about Joan of Arc from our History lessons—a peasant girl who heard from God, became a knight, and helped free her country. Reflecting on her courage during our morning time of prayer and Scripture reading helped me see how classical learning opens both my mind and my heart.

In Communication Arts and Storytelling, I learned that John Bunyan wrote Pilgrim’s Progress in 1678 while in prison and that it has never been out of print. Our entire school collaborated on a walking theater production of the story, and I was able to act in it, which made the book come alive in a new way.

Memorization is another important part of our learning. Innovate Academy even shared a video of me performing a grammar memory song. Storing timelines, grammar rules, and Scripture in my mind gives me tools I can rely on later.

Art has also connected beautifully with History. While studying the Middle Ages, we explored Byzantine, Islamic, Renaissance, and Baroque art. I painted a medieval castle with watercolors and created a stained-glass piece, which helped me experience the era instead of only reading about it.

Math has begun to make more sense to me as well because we use manipulatives and real problems. Working with my hands helps ideas become clear, and I now approach math with greater confidence.

Some of my favorite learning happens on field trips. When we studied caves and rocks, we visited Crystal Cave and a planetarium. During our unit on China in the 600s, we traveled to Philadelphia’s Chinatown to learn about the Tang Dynasty. At the Philadelphia Art Museum and Glencairn Museum, I explored medieval architecture and even sculpted limestone like the stones used to build castles.

This year has shown me that learning is connected, purposeful, and joyful. I am grateful for the opportunities I have at Innovate Academy, and I hope many others will be able to experience school in the same meaningful way.