Lūminé Academy

Classical Christian Literature & Science for Grades 3-8

Request a Seat in a 2026 Cohort

ESA Scholarship Funds Accepted for AZ, FL, and NH. Ask about using state voucher funds for 100% of tuition. Lead Instructor Vetted & Verified.

Academy Overview

Lūminé Academy offers a comprehensive, sequential classical journey through foundational language arts, the Great Books, and Science. For the 2026-27 school year, we are excited to feature the following active tracks:
    • Foundational Phase (Grades 3–5): The A.S.K. Language Arts Program. A full-year, asynchronous video-based course designed to eliminate writing anxiety and build structural confidence. Students move step-by-step from core sentences to elegant essays using our signature Analysis, Support, and Knowledge (A.S.K.) framework, supported by an optional 8-volume printed parent instruction series.
    • The Great Books Live Cohorts (Grades 5–8): American Literature (Grades 5-6) and Classic Fantasy (Grades 7-8) running live for the full academic year. Subsequent odd-numbered years will feature our sequential tracks in Ancient Literature and British Literature.
    • Socratic Science Live Cohorts (Grades 5–8): Space Science (Grades 5-6) and General Science (Grades 7-8) running live for the full academic year. Subsequent odd-numbered years will feature our sequential tracks in Earth Science and Physical Science.

The Academy Vision

Lighting the Path of the Great Conversation

Any good educational framework strives to teach students to read with comprehension, think with skill, and write with a plan. Imagine how empowering it is for a student to know exactly what questions to ask themselves rather than to be dependent on someone else to ask them! Lūminé Academy moves students from being ‘frozen’ to flourishing by embedding the four classical Pillars of Virtue — Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, and Temperance — directly into our text-based analysis, turning everyday learning into an active pursuit of the True, the Good, and the Beautiful.

To let us A.S.K. good questions… and shine a light on the True, the Good, and the Beautiful!

Curriculum Tiers

Video-Based Foundations Course

  • Analyze: We A.S.K. to analyze a text or topic using critical thinking skills to master reading comprehension.
  • Support: We A.S.K. to support a main idea or claim with textual evidence and logical reasoning.
  • Know: We A.S.K. to know how to map out and write structured paragraphs and essays for different purposes.

Tuition: $800/Full Year (Upfront Incentive Discount). Flexible quarterly payment plans available at $250 per quarter ($1,000 total).

Button: Explore Video Foundations

Live Literature, Composition, & Science Classes

  • Elite Expertise: Taught live by Elsie Lungren — a published author and multi-certified Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) with 25 years of global classroom experience.
  • True Socratic Discussion: Live cohorts are strictly capped at 12 students to ensure your child’s unique voice is always heard and valued.
  • The A.S.K. Method: Utilizing our proprietary system to move middle schoolers into deep narrative analysis, advanced composition, and systematic science investigations.

Tuition: $1,800/Academic Year (96+ Hours of Live Instruction).

Button: View Live Cohort Schedules

Foundations Bridge Copy: Starting the Journey Early? Explore our A.S.K. Elementary Language Arts — a full-year, video-based foundations course for grades 3-5.

From the Story Map to the Scholar’s Magnifying Glass — we grow with your student.

Literature Courses — The Pillar & The Pen

The A.S.K. Framework for Literature

  • A — Archetypes & Symbols: Decode recurring patterns and hidden meanings to become a “Symbol Hunter.”
  • S — Search for the Transcendent: Identify the True, the Good, and the Beautiful in every narrative.
  • K — Knightly Character: Apply the “Pillars of Virtue” to build a life of honor, discernment, and responsibility.

The American Adventure — Growing Up in a Big Land

Overall Theme: Character in a Big Land: Grit & Nation-building

Yearlong Question: “What kind of person builds a nation — and keeps it?”

Spirit: Exploring the American spirit of perseverance, family, and survival.

Key Icon: The Anchor (Grit & Steadfastness).

The Journey

  • Quarter 1: Frontier & Faith (The Colonial Era) — Theme: Dependence and Survival
  • Quarter 2: Revolution & Industry (The Birth of a Nation) — Theme: Responsibility and Contribution
  • Quarter 3: Home & Character (The 1800s) — Theme: Relationships and Integrity
  • Quarter 4: Survival & Transformation (The Frontier & Beyond) — Theme: Identity Under Pressure

Description: This course explores the dual necessity of Grit and Grace in the American experience. Students learn that building a nation takes the grit of pioneers and revolutionaries, but “keeping” a nation requires the grace of virtue, family, and integrity. By following heroes through the wilderness and the Civil War, students discover that the American adventure is ultimately a journey of the heart, teaching them that grit and grace are needed to navigate a big world.

Key Writing: Students will master the Character Analysis Essay, evaluating how various protagonists rely on perseverance and faith to overcome adversity.

The Library

Core Reading: Witch of Blackbird Pond, Sign of the Beaver, Johnny Tremain, Little Women, Tom Sawyer, Hatchet.

The A.S.K.

  • A — Archetypes & Symbols: Identify the “Wilderness” as a place of testing and the “Anchor” as a symbol of faith.
  • S — Search for the Transcendent: Find the True, the Good, and the Beautiful in the fortitude of the pioneer spirit.

K — Knightly Character: Apply the virtue of Fortitude to navigate modern “frontiers” with integrity.

Gods, Goldsmiths, and the Search for Truth

Overall Theme: Foundations of the Hero: Explanation vs. Truth

Yearlong Question: “How did different cultures try to explain the world before knowing the Absolute Truth?”

Spirit: Comparing ancient myths and Roman power to the True Hero (Christ).

Key Icon: The Pillar (Stability & Law).

The Journey

  • Quarter 1: Gods & Goldsmiths (Egypt & Early Greece) — Theme: Myth and Origins
  • Quarter 2: Heroes of the Horizon (The Heroic Age) — Theme: Valor and Hubris
  • Quarter 3: Citizens & Conquerors (The Golden Age to Rome) — Theme: Order and Law
  • Quarter 4: Legions & Lambs (Rome & Redemption) — Theme: Strength vs. Sacrifice

Description: This course explores the foundations of Western Civilization through its earliest stories, myths, and legends. From the mysteries of the Egyptian Goldsmith to the legendary Heroes of the Horizon, students analyze how ancient man grappled with fate, pride, and the divine. By evaluating the clash of Roman legions with those following the Lamb of God, students discover that the ultimate “Hero” is found not in a myth, but in the historical story of Redemption. Ultimately, comparing the capricious, human-like Greek gods with the unchanging character of the One True God prepares students for their final capstone analysis of ancient versus biblical virtue.

Key Writing: Students will master the Character Bio and the Symbol Hunter’s Log, culminating in a Comparative Analysis of ancient versus biblical heroism.

The Library

Core Reading: The Golden Goblet, Greek Myths, Homer, The Aeneid, The Bronze Bow.

The A.S.K.

  • A — Archetypes & Symbols: Decode the “Hero of Force” vs. the “Hero of Sacrifice” and the “Feather of Truth.”
  • S — Search for the Transcendent: Find the True, the Good, and the Beautiful hidden within ancient “shadows” and myths.
  • K — Knightly Character: Apply the virtue of Prudence to discern between ancient hubris and biblical wisdom.

Imaginative Apologetics and the Search for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful

Overall Theme: Imaginative Apologetics: Shadow vs. Reality

Yearlong Question: “What does this ‘Mirror’ show us about the Deep Magic of the Real World?”

Spirit: Finding the “True, Good, and Beautiful” through the lens of sub-creation.

Key Icon: The Mirror (Reflection of Truth).

The Journey

  • Quarter 1: The Root (Foundations of Fairy) — Theme: Fairy Tale Seeds (Simple & Symbolic)
  • Quarter 2: The Chronicles & The Cosmos (Light v. Darkness) — Theme: The Light of Love vs. the Shadow
  • Quarter 3: The Quest (Sub-creation) — Theme: Humans Reflecting the Creator
  • Quarter 4: The Mirror (The Anatomy of Truth) — Theme: Synthesis & Folk Wisdom

Description: From the Victorian roots of George MacDonald to the cosmic battles of the 20th century, this rigorous study of imaginative apologetics has students developing the critical thinking skill of hunting for and analyzing symbolism and motifs within the fantastical stories of “other worlds.” Not only do they evaluate how authors such as the Inklings (C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien) use “other worlds” to reveal the True, the Good, and the Beautiful in our own, they find the “Anatomy of Truth” hidden within the “Once upon a time.” And in so doing, they discover that imagination is a vital tool for understanding reality.

Key Writing: Students produce a literary analysis of theme or symbolism, and they tie together the entire year with a sophisticated Major Research Paper analyzing archetypes and worldviews across the genre.

The Library

Core Reading: MacDonald, Lewis (Narnia), L’Engle (Wrinkle in Time), Tolkien (The Hobbit), Grimm.

The A.S.K.

  • A — Archetypes & Symbols: Decode the “Mirror” of fantasy and the “Deep Magic” of the Quest.
  • S — Search for the Transcendent: Find the True, the Good, and the Beautiful in the art of “Sub-creation.”
  • K — Knightly Character: Apply the virtue of Temperance to balance imagination with the discipline of reality.

From Swords to Sleuths

Overall Theme: The Evolution of the Hero: Honor & Discernment

Yearlong Question: The Measure of a Man: How does literature teach us to think, judge, and act with honor?

Spirit: Tracing honor and morality from the mead hall to the Victorian parlor.

Key Icon: The Gauntlet (Honor & The Covenant).

The Journey

  • Quarter 1: Iron and Ink (Medieval Foundations) — Theme: Physical Strength to Moral Testing
  • Quarter 2: The Globe’s Stage (Order & Chaos) — Theme: Internal Conflict and Providence
  • Quarter 3: Manners and Monsters (Virtue & Society) — Theme: Character and Integrity
  • Quarter 4: Shadows and Solutions (Truth & Justice) — Theme: Intellect, Logic, and Discernment

Description: Tracing the evolution of the “gentleman,” this course follows the British hero from the mead hall to the modern detective’s study. Students navigate the code of chivalry in the Middle Ages, the internal conflicts of the Shakespearean stage, and the Victorian focus on integrity and character. This is a rigorous study of discernment, training students to analyze motives and social structures with a logical mind.

Key Writing: Students will develop high-level Deductive Reasoning Reports (The Sleuth’s Log) and a formal Literary Argumentative Essay on virtue.

The Library

Core Reading: Beowulf, Sir Gawain, Shakespeare, Austen, Dickens, Sherlock Holmes.

The A.S.K.

  • A — Archetypes & Symbols: Trace the “Gauntlet” of chivalry and the “Masks” of social propriety.
  • S — Search for the Transcendent: Find the True, the Good, and the Beautiful in the pursuit of logic, honor, and justice.
  • K — Knightly Character: Apply the virtue of Justice to act with honor and discernment in all social spheres.

Science Courses — The Prism & The Providence

The Middle School Science A.S.K. Framework

  • A — Admire the Design: Observing the complexity and intentionality of the created world.
  • S — Systematically Investigate: Using the scientific method to test hypotheses and support findings with data.
  • K — Knowledge for Stewardship: Mastering scientific principles to better care for the world we have been given.

Overall Theme: The Order and Vastness of the Cosmos

Yearlong Question: “How do the patterns and laws of the universe reveal an intelligent, purposeful Architect?”

Visual Icon: The Prism/Telescope or Star Burst

Course Description: This course launches students on an extraordinary voyage through our solar system and the outer reaches of space. Students will explore the history of space exploration, the unique characteristics of each planet, and the celestial bodies that populate our galaxy. By combining physics principles with astronomy, this course challenges students to look beyond the night sky to understand the physical mechanics that keep the universe in motion.

Major Topics: The History of Astronomy, Planetary Characteristics and Orbits, The Sun and Moon Dynamics, Asteroids, Meteors, and Comets, Stars and Galaxies, Space Travel and Rocketry, and the Fine-Tuning of Earth.

Required Textbook: Exploring Creation with Astronomy, 2nd Edition (Apologia)

The A.S.K.

  • A — Admire the Design: Observe the vastness and mathematical precision of planetary orbits and celestial bodies.
  • S — Systematically Investigate: Use observation and measurement to understand gravity, light, and the laws governing the cosmos.
  • K — Knowledge for Stewardship: Gain a deeper perspective on Earth’s unique “fine-tuned” position to foster a heart of gratitude and care.

Overall Theme: The Interconnected Systems of Creation

Yearlong Question: “How does the structural integration of the natural world demonstrate an underlying, purposeful design?”

Visual Icon: The Scholar’s Magnifying Glass or Microscope

Course Description: Designed as the foundational bridge into upper-level logic, this course introduces students to the broad spectrum of the physical sciences. Students will learn how to think like true scientists by mastering the history of science, the scientific method, and the proper way to document discovery. The course dives deep into earth science, life science, and the intricate marvels of human anatomy, providing a comprehensive worldview baseline before high school.

Major Topics: The History of Science, The Scientific Method and Experimental Design, Data Analysis and Graphing, Astronomy, Meteorology, Oceanography, Earth Science and Geology, Life Science, and General Human Anatomy.

Required Textbook: Exploring Creation with General Science, 3rd Edition (Apologia)

The A.S.K.

  • A — Admire the Design: Explore the invisible laws of nature that provide order and stability to our physical world.
  • S — Systematically Investigate: Master the formal lab report, testing hypotheses through rigorous hands-on experimentation.
  • K — Knowledge for Stewardship: Distinguish between scientific theory and absolute truth to make wise, informed decisions as a “Creation-Explorer.”

Overall Theme: The Rhythms, Layers, and Providential Care of Earth

Yearlong Question: “How do the dynamic structures of the Earth demonstrate active providential care and resource design?”

Visual Icon: The Surveyor’s Compass or Globe

Course Description: This course brings the study of our home planet to life by investigating the literal foundations beneath our feet and the atmospheres above our heads. Students will analyze geological layers, water cycles, and severe weather patterns to understand Earth’s rich history. The curriculum emphasizes active field observation and data mapping, challenging students to see the earth not as a random rock, but as an intricately balanced habitat designed to sustain human life.

Major Topics: The Structure of the Earth (Geosphere), Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils, The Hydrosphere (Oceans and Fresh Water), The Atmosphere and Weather Forecasting, Ecosystems and Biomes, Climate Dynamics, and Natural Resource Management.

Required Textbook: Exploring Creation with Earth Science (Apologia)

The A.S.K.

  • A — Admire the Design: Marvel at the intricate systems of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere that sustain life.
  • S — Systematically Investigate: Analyze geological layers, mineral samples, and weather patterns to understand Earth’s history.
  • K — Knowledge for Stewardship: Develop actionable ways to protect and manage the resources within our immediate environment.

Overall Theme: Energy, Matter, and Fundamental Cosmic Laws

Yearlong Question: “How do the fundamental laws of energy and matter reflect a consistent, immutable Creator?”

Visual Icon: The Geometric Lens or Star Light Prism

Course Description: Serving as the peak middle school science experience, this course pushes students into the precise worlds of chemistry and physics. Students will study the elegance of atomic structures, chemical bonds, and the laws of motion and force. This curriculum utilizes advanced mathematical logic to solve real-world engineering problems, requiring rigorous experimental accuracy and preparing exiting students to completely dominate their upcoming high school lab requirements.

Major Topics: The Structure of Matter and Atoms, The Periodic Table of Elements, Chemical Reactions and Bonds, Forces and Newton’s Laws of Motion, Energy, Work, and Machines, Electricity and Magnetism, Waves, Sound, and Light Refraction.

Required Textbook: Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 3rd Edition (Apologia)

The A.S.K.

  • A — Admire the Design: Admire the elegance of atomic structure and the fundamental laws of energy and motion.
  • S — Systematically Investigate: Utilize advanced mathematical logic to solve problems in chemistry and physics.
  • K — Knowledge for Stewardship: Apply scientific laws to real-world technology and engineering challenges with integrity and skill.

The Master Teacher Value Proposition

Private Mentorship. Professional Expertise.

Credentials: M.A.T., Ed.S., 25 years experience, Published Author.
A private mentorship for the price of a class. $80/hr expertise for $18/hr tuition.

Logistics & Enrollment

Schedule: Tuesday/Thursday and Wednesday/Friday slots available, allowing families to group their Literature and Science days together for a full-day solution.

Founding Family Incentive: $200 discount for dual-enrollment.

Transparency & Safety Disclosure

Safety and Teacher Verification

At Lūminé Academy, student safety is our priority.

  • Background Checked: Our founder and lead instructor, Elsie Lungren, undergoes a comprehensive third-party background check annually.
  • Verified Credentials: All academic degrees and professional teaching certifications (New York State Permanent Lifetime) have been verified through our secure enrollment and state vendor platforms.
  • Professional Persona: As a published author, Elsie Lungren uses this professional pseudonym for all educational and literary work. All legal and financial transactions are securely processed through our registered business entity, Lūminé Press, LLC.

ESA Vouchers

Lūminé Academy is happy to work with families using ESA or state educational vouchers. Please contact us to initiate the vendor approval process for your state.