In order to have a future, America’s children must follow the footsteps of the Founders by learning from the past.

The statistics reveal that Parents are frustrated with underperforming government-run schools.

Between 2012 and 2022, the percentage of American children not attending government-run schools increased from 9% to 13%.

This translates to approximately 2 million students choosing charter schools, homeschooling, or other educational alternatives.

For proponents of educational freedom, this shift is not unexpected.

The steady implementation of school-choice policies across the United States in recent years has expanded options for students, and the revelations triggered by COVID school closures encouraged parents to explore these alternatives. 

This trend has also led to the emergence of new educational models, including the revival of a classic approach that played a crucial role in America’s development — classical schooling. 

But what exactly is classical education?

There are multiple interpretations, but one common definition describes it as an education that introduces students to Western intellectual and literary traditions, dating back to ancient civilizations like Athens and Jerusalem, and instills values of truth, goodness, and beauty.

This type of education is reminiscent of what America’s founding generations received.

George Washington admired a play about the Roman senator Cato.

John Adams studied Cicero diligently.

James Madison’s Federalist Papers referenced historical examples from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.

Thomas Jefferson, when reflecting on the Declaration of Independence, emphasized its roots in ancient works by Aristotle, Cicero, Locke, and others.

Today, the lack of familiarity with these foundational sources among the general population, including many influential individuals, is concerning.

Without this inherited wisdom that shaped our nation’s origins, we risk drifting away from the vision our Founders had for the future without even realizing it.

Ironically, those who often champion “democracy” the loudest are undermining the Founders’ concept of it. 

Such actions are not acceptable in a nation built on the principle of government by the people.

You cannot appreciate what you do not understand, and a republic whose citizens lack a profound grasp of their civic duties will struggle to endure. 

Regrettably, many educators, officials, and politicians today seem to prioritize an inaccurate portrayal of American history and values in government schools, labeling the country, its founding documents, and institutions as inherently racist and corrupt. 

It is no surprise then that a recent survey found that around 70% of registered voters would fail a basic literacy quiz and only 25% feel very confident in explaining how our government functions.

Americans are increasingly dissatisfied and are taking actions to address their concerns. 

Between 2019 and 2023, over 264 new classical schools were established, with existing ones experiencing a surge in enrollment.

According to a market analysis by Arcadia Education, 677,500 students are currently enrolled in classical schools, a number expected to double to 1.4 million by 2035.  

Contrary to the negative portrayals often seen in the media, on college campuses, and in Washington, most Americans still hold deep affection for their country.

They cherish their heritage and aspire to pass on this patriotism to future generations. 

Though signs of decline persist – in the economy, law enforcement, education, and public morality – we must not resign ourselves to a collapse.  

Classical education provides an opportunity to reignite the flame of Western civilization before it fades away.

If we falter, the great nation envisioned by our Founders may face demise.

But if we succeed, we can raise a new generation of “Founders” among our children and grandchildren.

To ensure a promising future, we must learn from our past. 

Kevin Roberts serves as President of The Heritage Foundation and Heritage Action for America. Ryan Walters is the superintendent of the Oklahoma State Department of Education.