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Two years ago, my family relocated from Texas to Southern Illinois to be closer to my wife’s family. Leaving behind Texas’s warmth and culture was challenging, especially with a young child and another on the way. Marion, Illinois, though, offered us a warm welcome and small-town charm that helped ease our transition.

During our search for a nurturing environment for our daughter, we discovered an Ambleside school and its unique educational philosophy. Ambleside, inspired by British educator Charlotte Mason, emphasizes the joy of learning through engaging ideas and rich texts. This was a refreshing change from my own uninspiring schooling experience.

Ambleside’s Christ-centered approach celebrates knowledge as a gift from God, with true understanding achieved through the Holy Spirit. It fosters a joyful learning environment where students are valued and encouraged to explore independently. This stands in sharp contrast to the behaviorist approach of many schools, which rely on grades and rewards and can leave some students feeling disconnected and undervalued.

At a recent Ambleside annual training event for new teachers here in Marion that we call our Summer Institute, I saw firsthand the transformative power of an Ambleside education. Educators from across the country experienced a vibrant, interactive learning environment that went beyond mere curriculum. This approach, which avoids quick fixes and instead nurtures a deep, intrinsic love for learning, has been impactful for thousands of students.

Dr. Bill St. Cyr, who founded Ambleside Schools International (ASI) with his wife Maryellen St. Cyr, is a psychologist who felt led to shift his emphasis from counseling adults to developing resilient and faithful children through this method. The movement has grown to 25 schools, with more on the way. And with ASI training some 100 educators annually, these inspired teachers impact many families each year; the ripple effect of this educational model is deeply encouraging.

Incorporating principles from scripture, such as Christ’s call to nurture children, Ambleside classrooms honor God through every lesson. The impact on students is profound, equipping them with a faith-centered, character forming education.

Reflecting on our journey, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and growth Ambleside has provided for my children and our family. This movement is influencing the growth of my children and shaping our family – and the future of our community and society – in foundational, life-enriching ways.

As you think about your own family and how you would like to disciple and nurture them, you might ask yourself: is the time spent in our classroom, home, work, and community fostering joy, growth, wisdom, and nurturing relationships with God, self, and others? If not, please consider how the Ambleside approach could help you and your family experience a more full, free, and meaningful life.

Michael Reyes

Associate Director of Advancement and Administration