Dr. Brian Polk, director of the Center for Classical Education at School of the Ozarks, leads a session during the 2026 Summer Teacher Training.

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — School of the Ozarks hosted its third annual Summer Teacher Training, July 12-15, welcoming approximately 190 teachers from at least 20 schools across more than 10 states and Canada. The four-day training brought together educators at various stages of their careers to learn more about classical Christian education and prepare for the school year ahead.

The number of participants increased from approximately 160 teachers in 2025 to 190 this year, continuing the growth of the training since it began in 2024. The event provides educators an opportunity to learn from experienced classical Christian teachers while building relationships with others who share a commitment to Christ-centered education.

Dr. Brian Polk, director of the Center for Classical Education at School of the Ozarks, helped lead the training and worked with educators throughout the week.

“We want to provide this opportunity for teachers all around the nation, to inspire them and give them confidence in teaching the new generations ahead,” Polk said.

Educators from across the United States and Canada participate in a breakout session during the 2026 Summer Teacher Training at School of the Ozarks.

The Summer Teacher Training provides educators with practical classroom tools and a deeper understanding of the purpose behind Classical Christian Education. Teachers participated in sessions and discussions focused on teaching, curriculum, classroom practices, and the formation of students.

With educators representing schools from across the United States and Canada, the training also gave teachers an opportunity to share ideas and experiences from their own classrooms.

As participation continues to increase, School of the Ozarks is considering how the training could grow while maintaining the quality of the experience for attendees.

“We do have the desire to expand this program,” Polk said. “There are many factors that we must consider and analyze for a decision to be made. Our main priority is the quality and intentionality of this event.”

The growth of the event reflects the efforts of School of the Ozarks to share its educational model beyond its own campus. Rather than expanding only by increasing the number of students at the school, the training provides an opportunity to equip teachers who can take what they learn back to their own classrooms and communities.

Polk said confident and well-equipped teachers can have a lasting influence on their students and may help encourage educators to remain in the teaching profession.

While only the third training hosted by School of the Ozarks, over 190 teachers throughout North America attended the event, with most of their expenses being paid by the Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation.

For teachers attending the training, the week provided time to step away from the demands of the school year and consider both the practical and philosophical aspects of their work. Sessions allowed educators to learn from experienced teachers while discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with teaching in a classical Christian setting.

The training also continued a tradition of building relationships among educators. Teachers from different schools were able to exchange ideas, encourage one another and develop connections that can continue beyond the four-day event.

The event is made possible through the support of the Stanley M. Herzog Charitable Foundation, which supports efforts to strengthen K-12 Christian education through teacher training, resources, and grants. The Foundation’s support provides educators with opportunities for professional development and learning from experienced classical Christian educators.

As School of the Ozarks continues hosting the annual Summer Teacher Training, the growing participation provides an opportunity to encourage and equip more educators who are committed to classical Christian education and to the formation of the next generation.