"Therefore we must establish a school of the Lord's service, in founding which we hope to ordain nothing that is harsh or burdensome. But if, for good reason, for the amendment of evil habit or the preservation of charity, there be some strictness of discipline, do not be at once dismayed and run away from the way of salvation, of which the entrance must needs be narrow. But, as we progress in our monastic life and in faith, our hearts shall be enlarged, and we shall run with unspeakable sweetness of love in the way of God's commandments; so that, never abandoning his rule but persevering in his teaching in the monastery until death, we shall share by patience in the sufferings of Christ, that we may deserve to be partakers also of his kingdom. Amen" -- Saint Benedict

FOUNDER Dear Friends in Christ, Since reading my first book on the life of Saint Benedict many years ago, I have been drawn to the peaceful Benedictine spirituality and his simplistic way of life. Saint Benedict attracted people by his holy example, his charitableness towards others and the discipline and practice of his Rule. His school was known for accepting the rich and poor alike and all were welcomed regardless of their status in the community. In the curriculum of studies religion held the first place and then the study of Latin and the music of the Church. All this was piously accomplished while tilling the soil and following his Rule. It has been from the example and readings of Saint Benedict that I felt encouraged and inspired to develop this program of studies for the IHS Academy website. My mission is to provide you with a most unique multilingual curriculum (English, Italian and Latin) that is enjoyable yet academically challenging, a curriculum that is centered around the Liturgical Year and under the watchful care of Saint Benedict, patron saint of the Academy. As you read through the book list for each level, please know that I do not suggest a specific "method" of learning or teaching but rather believe children benefit from being exposed to multiple approaches in a home study program. From family group readings to writing assignments, from hands-on activities to quiet independent study, each has its own significance and relevance throughout the day. Most importantly children absorb information and advance in their studies through familiar repetition and consistency. Repetitio est mater studiorum - Repetition is the mother of learning. In conclusion my hope and prayer is that we all find success in the education of our children. Dominus vobiscum, Mrs. J. Randazzo BIO - My husband and I were both raised Catholic and are expecting our tenth child this summer. We are based in the northern midwest and I have been home schooling since 1996. During that time I have read through and tested numerous amounts of educational products and resources available on the market. From this research I have compiled the current curriculum and student life recommendations on the IHS Academy website.