Final Day of the National Symposium for Classical Education Leaves Attendees Inspired and Eager for 2026 

The third and final day of the 2025 Great Hearts National Symposium for Classical Education at the Mission Palms Hotel was a fitting conclusion to this one-of-a-kind gathering that brought together educators, scholars, and advocates of classical learning. With the theme of “Cultivating Wonder” in mind, attendees departed with renewed inspiration, invigorated by discussions on the timeless beauty of literature, the power of curiosity, and the noble call of education.

Symposiasts were first treated to a beautiful and comedic performance of Bach’s satirical opera, the Coffee Cantata, with vocals by Laura Pyper, an administrator at Great Hearts Texas Online, and accompanied by flautist Heather Pryse, a teacher at Archway Lincoln,and pianist Jean-Luc Villamor. The Coffee Cantata was composed sometime between 1732-1735 and tells the story of a father’s dismay at his spirited daughter’s addiction to coffee which she calls “more delicious than a thousand kisses.” It was a great way tobegin the morning.

Next, the last keynote began with “Witness and Wonder,” led by Jessica Hooten Wilson. She encouraged educators to reflect on how they could guide the next generation to love what is beautiful and live in witness to something greater than themselves. This moving discussion set a profound tone for the day, urging attendees to consider their role in shaping students not just as learners but as virtuous human beings.

Among the many breakout sessions offered after the keynote address, was a distinguished panel featuring Colleen Sheehan, Sir Jonathan Bate, and Inger S.B. Brodey gathered to celebrate the literary genius of Jane Austen in “Forever Young: Jane Austen at 250.” In honor of Austen’s milestone anniversary, the panel explored why her novels remain deeply beloved across generations, highlighting her keen insights into human nature, society, and virtue. Participants left with a deeper appreciation of Austen’s lasting impact on literature and classical education.

Anika Prather, another inspiring speaker and long-time friend of the Symposium, delivered a compelling session at her workshop, “Freedom to Wonder,” where she discussed the transformative power of classical education, especially for children who have not always had the freedom to wonder. “There is something magical about this tradition that frees the mind,” she said as she explained that cultivating a culture of wonder not only enriches learning but also opens doors for students of all backgrounds to engage with great ideas and make groundbreaking discoveries. Her talk resonated with many educators eager to bring this sense of wonder into their classrooms.

As the symposium concluded, staff began stacking up ballroom chairs, sponsors started packing up their booths, and attendees engaged in final discussions and reflections, exchanging ideas and looking forward to implementing what they had learned in their schools and communities. The event reinforced the crucial role of classical education in shaping thoughtful, virtuous, and well-rounded individuals.

The excitement and enthusiasm from this year’s symposium will carry forward to the next gathering. The Great Hearts National Symposium for Classical Education is set to return to the Mission Palms Hotel in Tempe, Arizona, on February 25-27, 2026. The theme will be “Classical Education and the American Experiment: The Declaration of Independence at 250.” Educators, scholars, and classical education advocates are encouraged to mark their calendars and register early to secure their place at this premier event dedicated to the pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in education.

Be part of this enriching experience and continue the conversation that is shaping the future of Classical Education and take advantage of the early bird registration available until February 28, 2025, and lock in the lowest price by visiting:
https://greatheartsfoundation.configio.com/pd/193/national-symposium-for-classical-education-2026

Do you have a story or know of one that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.

Submit a student application to a Great Hearts Academy by visiting: https://www.greatheartsamerica.org/enroll/.