By NATALIE SPAULDING
With many Alaskans discouraged with the current state of public education, the founding of Thomas More Classical School in Anchorage comes as welcome news to many families. TMC’s mission proudly proclaims the school’s foundation in classical, Christian pedagogy and their vision of an education aim toward Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. According to TMC leadership, the school seeks to educate students to be better human beings. In addition to learning facts and figures and developing marketable skills, Thomas More scholars will also grow in virtue, wisdom, and faith.
A few years ago, a group of like-minded parents formed the Board of Directors of Thomas More Classical School. Noting community feedback on the insufficiency of public schools, the Board began rekindling what school ought to be: a place that will “deepen faith, awaken God-given charisms, and equip each graduate with the knowledge and confidence required to pursue their unique calling and live as free and flourishing Alaskans.”
After completing a competitive application process, TMC was accepted into the Hillsdale College K-12 program which mentors new schools in the classical model and provides a robust, rigorous, and effective curriculum. The school plans to open in Fall 2026 with grades K-6. Grades 7 and 8 may also be available in Fall 2026 depending on community interest and Hillsdale College guidance. TMC plans to add one grade each year until it is a full K-12 private school.
TMC wishes to provide a private, but not elitist alternative to public education. The school desires a diverse, culturally rich student body, representing all walks of life. Sarah Spaulding, the school’s current headmaster, addresses the common concern that the classical education model promotes elitism: “The classics are not for the intellectual elite nor strictly for the affluent. The ideas found in classic literature and expounded through classic pedagogy are timeless, universal, and profoundly humbling. Through my experience in the classical education arena, both as a teacher and an administrator, I have seen kids come alive with the light of learning, grow in moral character, and embrace the challenges of serious academic pursuit. “
“My goal is to make education aimed at the good, true, and beautiful accessible to any family who wishes to pursue it.”
Sarah Spaulding, TMC Headmaster
Thomas More Classical School, opening Fall 2026, carries the torch of classical education to Alaska and offers a beacon to those searching for academically rigorous and morally sound education for their children. TMC invites parents to gather by our fire, feel the warmth of wisdom, and partner with us to keep the light of learning burning during this time of darkness in American education.
If you are interested in learning more about Thomas More Classical school, please consider joining one of the information sessions or events happening this fall. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year open for grades K-6 on October 1, 2025.
Natalie Spaulding, a 2025 Hillsdale College graduate, recently joined the Must Read Alaska team.