Knightly News

Episcopal faculty are experts in their fields - 63% have earned advanced degrees. These individuals are enthusiastic about teaching and strive daily to encourage a culture of lifelong learning. Now, adults can learn from these talented educators and model curiosity and the importance of continued education for their children.

Knight School is a unique series of evening classes for adults in the Episcopal community. Classes begin the week after fall break and will occur in classrooms and the QUEST Center in Foster Hall. Seventh grade history teacher Julie Weaver researched the concept of adult learning experiences and is excited to see Knight School become a reality. “Our goal is to foster a growth mindset as well as cultivate positive interactions among faculty and our Episcopal community. Adults can stretch their creativity, learn something new, and connect with like-minded individuals. Studies show that learning something new as adults is good for your brain and can help reduce stress. What could be better than learning with no tests!”  Knight School will provide an opportunity for adults to get to know teachers apart from student assignments and grades. It’s also a great way to boost communication and foster school spirit. Weaver says the response from faculty interested in participating has been tremendous. 

Adult learners can select from academic and fun topics. Most classes will meet for 90 minutes once a week. As the program develops, Weaver says organizers hope to offer more sessions next spring. See below for more information on the courses currently available. To register for classes, please click here.

“Behind Every Number:  A History of the Holocaust through Stories” by Julie Weaver, Middle School History

This course will cover the history of the Holocaust, including the long saga of anti-Semitism, the rise of the Nazi Party, and the implementation of the Final Solution, with the goal of understanding the processes that led to the Holocaust and leading to reflection on our personal roles in society.  We will use Holocaust literature as a guide to investigating true personal stories and learning about individual experiences within the context of the history of World War II and the Holocaust.  Attendees will follow the story of and artifacts related to an individual involved in the Holocaust to understand the effects of various events occurring in Europe during World War II.  The course will culminate in a visit with a Holocaust survivor and an optional trip to Auschwitz in Poland at the beginning of the summer of 2024. 

Attendees should plan on a small amount of reading prior to each session and should bring an iPad, computer, or some other device to access information online during class.

Course Details:

This course will meet from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. for four nights (October 17th, 24th, Monday, October 30th and November 7th). This course has a minimum enrollment requirement; if the course does not meet the minimum enrollment, participants will receive a refund. The cost for the course is $150.00 per participant.

“Bon Appétit: Learning French and the Art of French Cooking” by Isabella Runge, French teacher

Calling all foodies! Learn French while also learning about French culture through recipes and food from around the globe. French recipes offer fast and straightforward translation opportunities. While translating recipes, participants will be able to focus on vocabulary and grammar while also learning about French culture. Participants will learn recipes and history of cuisine from France, Vietnam, Morocco, Senegal, Switzerland, and Belgium. All dishes can be adapted for dietary restrictions. Lessons will include videos, games, and cooking! Learning French is a complex process, but cooking French food is a fun and easy activity that will help us get out of the textbook and into the Francophone World!

Course Details:

This course will meet 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday nights for five nights (October 18th, 25th, November 1st, 8th, 15th). This course has a minimum enrollment requirement; if the course does not meet the minimum enrollment, participants will receive a refund. The cost for the course is $187.50 per participant.

“The British Monarchy: From Bridgerton to the Crown” by Clara Howell, Upper School History

For fans of Netflix shows such as Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte, and The Crown, learn the history behind the drama depicted on screen! This history course will cover some of the highlights (and perhaps lowlights) of the British crown in the late 18th through the early 20th centuries. We will explore the politics and personal lives of the Hanoverian monarchs as well as the sweeping changes that ushered in a new age for society and the not-so-new dynasty of the House of Windsor. This class will include episode discussions, interactive lectures, and recommendations for further viewing/reading. If you ever find yourself googling the history of your favorite period drama, this is the course for you!

Homework will be optional and include short articles and an episode of one of the Netflix shows. A subscription to Netflix is recommended.

Course Details:

This course will meet 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. on Monday nights for three nights (October 16th, 30th, and November 6th). This course has a minimum enrollment requirement; if the course does not meet the minimum enrollment, participants will receive a refund. The cost for the course is $112.50 per participant.

Cajun Dancing by Coach Dupe, Cross Country/Track & Field Coach

Allons danser! Let’s go dancing! Join Coach Dupe for an evening of joie de vivre with friends, family, and Cajun culture. In this class, you will learn the basics of the Cajun jitterbug, Cotton Eye Joe, Cajun waltz, electric slide, and the freeze. So grab a partner and laissez le bon temps rouler! 

Course Details:

This one evening class will meet on Wednesday, November 15th from 6:00 – 7:30 pm. The cost for the course is $37.50 per participant.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2024-2025 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.