Personal Formation

As a result of his studies in the core academic subjects of English, Mathematics, Science, History and Geography, as well as through other academic and co-curricular activities, an Oaklawn Academy student should acquire:

• A wealth of knowledge in general culture and the particular disciplines; an understanding of the roots and underpinnings of his own national culture, history and western ideals; a firm grounding in math and the sciences, and in the scientific method.
• An ability to think, speak and write clearly, coherently, precisely, attractively and persuasively.
• Thinking, reasoning and communicating skills which are built upon a keen sense of perception and a sharp memory.
• A capacity for reflection and imagination, as well as those technological and inquiry skills intrinsic to the exact and social sciences.
• A critical mind that can tell right from wrong, fact from fiction, truth from opinion.
• Habits and dispositions that are critical for ongoing intellectual formation after graduation — including study habits, concentration and critical thinking, perseverance and a desire to produce high-quality work.

The environment and external order of the Academy, and the direct interest of his teachers, are the means the student uses to acquire mastery of himself so as to make those ideals a reality in his life. Maturity is to possess the inner strength to be what we should be at all times. Character is the core of leadership.

• His behavior reveals that he possesses principles that govern his actions and orders his passions. He shows firmness of will and self-control.
• He values and cultivates the virtues of justice, sincerity, fidelity to his word, commitment, honesty, and a rightly formed conscience.
• He has a healthy self-confidence and respect for others, and presents himself well physically, being neatly groomed and attired.
• He is articulate, capable of convincing others of the truth with charity and respect.
• He has a mature sense of authority, and respect for it without being servile.
• Because of his generosity, perseverance, trustworthiness, sense of duty and responsibility, he is a valuable member of any organization, group or team.
• He has interpersonal skills, and is able to work on a team by collaborating and contributing to a common goal.
• His charity, integrity, honesty and compassion make him a good and loyal friend.
• He values health and hygiene, and cultivates both. He enjoys physical activity and its benefits. He has a healthy enjoyment of sports.

An Oaklawn student’s spiritual life consists of a deep, personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ that is the ultimate motive for all his choices and actions. His intellectual and human growth come to perfection in his spiritual efforts.

• God, the Church and souls are a reality in his life.
• He knows that God has given him life for a purpose and he strives to know and fulfill it.
• He knows that Christ’s supreme commandment is love, and he strives to love God above all things and his neighbor as himself.
• He knows that love without action is sterile and meaningless.
• He loves the Church, the Holy Father, Mary and the saints.
• He knows, is faithful to and can defend the Church’s teachings.
• He is actively engaged in the ongoing task of forming his intellect, passions and emotions, free will, and conscience.
• He lives a sacramental life and participates in opportunities to grow in the spiritual life. He prays and strives to live a life of holiness and grace.
• His thoughts and actions are influenced by a Christian view of the human person and of the world.

The student should have many occasions to participate in apostolic projects. These should provide the opportunity to express his faith in actions of service to others, and set the pattern for his life.

• He is a good witness of Christ by living according to Gospel principles of truth, justice, and compassion.
• He can bear witness to the hope that is within him (Cf. Peter 3:15).
• He is willing to contribute his time, treasure, and talents in service to God and others for he desires to build and expand Christ’s Kingdom.
• He knows that service is costly, and is willing to make the sacrifice.
• He participates in activities to grow in the apostolic life.
• He views his life in terms of service.