Pend Oreille Classical Academy

09/23/2026

A: The word “liberal” is derived from the Latin word “libertas,” which means freedom. When educators use the word “liberal” to describe any part of the education offered in a classical school, they are referring to the education befitting citizens of a free country.

A liberal arts curriculum is a broad, holistic approach to learning rather than narrow vocational or technical training. Spanning literature, philosophy, history, mathematics, the natural sciences, and fine arts, it develops the whole person—mind and character—by equipping students with the timeless tools of learning.

08/10/2026

A: As a public charter school, POCA will be strictly non-sectarian and without religious affiliation. When information about the major world religions is taught, it is included for its historical, cultural, and literary significance.

At the same time, POCA will nurture the development of virtuous character in our students. Our school virtues are courage, courtesy, honesty, perseverance, self-government, and service.

07/29/2026

A: Yes. As public charter schools, all schools affiliated with American Classical Schools of Idaho (ACSI) welcome all students and have robust programs for those who need additional support. ACSI has a special education advisor who offers additional guidance to each school’s special education team.

The classical model may be a great fit for your special needs student: classroom order, the focus on virtue, and direct instruction together create a good environment for these children to thrive academically and socially.

07/23/2026

A: At our school, we will use technology thoughtfully and sparingly as a tool that serves human formation and preserves teachers’ leadership. Classrooms will rely on pencils, paper, chalkboards, and live discussion because research and experience show that these build stronger memory and deeper comprehension than heavy screen use.

Like most classical schools, POCA also will limit personal devices to foster genuine interaction and reduce distractions.

07/17/2026

A: No, POCA will not increase the tax burden for local families. Under Idaho law, charter schools are specifically prohibited from increasing or levying taxes. They do not have access to local property tax revenue or school bond initiatives. This restriction is explicitly stated in Idaho Code Section 33-5206(1), which outlines the requirements for operating a public charter school.

Instead, charter schools rely on state funding, federal allocations, and private fundraising or grants to cover their operating and facility costs.

06/17/2026

At Pend Oreille Classical Academy, our students will wear uniforms. Why are uniforms common at classical schools? They eliminate distractions, strengthen our community identity, and level the playing field. Most of all, they remind us that we are doing important work.

04/23/2026

We are grateful for the guidance of American Classical Schools of Idaho, which aims to form future citizens who uphold the ideals of the American Founding through a tuition-free, American classical K–12 education in schools across Idaho. To learn more and see how you can help support ACSI’s vital work, visit them online here: https://acs-id.org/

ACSI forms future citizens who uphold the ideals of the American Founding through a tuition-free, American classical K-12 education in schools across Idaho. Learn More ACSI Member Schools Learn More About ACSI American Classical Schools of Idaho (ACSI) is a 501c-3 non-profit organization that exists...

04/06/2026

At Pend Oreille Classical Academy’s sister schools—the member schools supported by American Classical Schools of Idaho—the school pledge brings ancient ideas into modern times: “I will learn the true; I will do the good; I will love the beautiful.” We look forward to sharing this pledge when POCA opens its doors.

03/18/2026

Over the past two years, members of our community founding group have spoken with hundreds of local parents who care deeply about their children’s education and are excited about a new option in our area.

As the weather warms up we’ll be back out there—stay tuned for upcoming events. In the meantime, you can send us your questions and sign up to receive email updates here:
www.poca-bcid.org

03/11/2026

We are fortunate to have the partnership of Old Mill Land, LLC, which is currently developing the 185-acre Old Mill neighborhood along the Pend Oreille River in Oldtown—the future home of Pend Oreille Classical Academy. You can learn more about their plans here: https://oldmillid.com