If you had asked me two years ago if my family was going to be part of the new Black Mountain Classical Conversations Community of Excel Academy, I would have replied, “I hope not; not if I can help it.” I knew well the reputation of first-year teachers and principals and, though this was a bit different, I still had no intention of joining that circus.

HA! Well, as is often the case, God had other plans. Better plans.

Since we joined the Excel Academy 18 months ago, we have not once wished we were in a different community. This community has been an incredible blessing to our family and has far-exceeded our hopes for our son/family. Opposite of what I feared, Excel Academy is actually highly organized and extremely efficient because we have capable and consistent leadership. Our Excel Academy truly is God-centric (often said, rarely practiced), which echoes through everything, everywhere. Every conversation. Every situation. Every activity. Though we are not perfect, having the common thread of Jesus and the foundation of Biblical Truth creates a community of peace, grace, and love.

Through Classical Conversations, we have greatly appreciated having a group of families that learns together, teaches together, grows together, and is highly supportive of each other. Arts and Activities, in turn, is a fantastic extra-curricular opportunity for our only child to dabble in new activities and skills, all the while learning to get along with other kids. And Parents-Night-Out – OH, MY! Thank you!!!! What a gift!

So now, two years later, when I am asked about our home school group, I excitedly tell about the gift we have been given through the Excel Academy. I tell of our amazing director and the many activities available for our children and families. I tell of our Christ-centered community and how special it is to our family to have that solid foundation. And to think….this is only the beginning!

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