Unlocking the Genius Within: Exploring a Thomas Jefferson Education

You may have heard of the Thomas Jefferson Education (TJEd) homeschool philosophy, also known as Leadership Education. This distinctive approach to learning and teaching (mentoring) aims to cultivate leaders and thinkers who are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. Developed by Oliver and Rachel DeMille, TJEd draws inspiration from the educational practices of great leaders and thinkers throughout history, including Thomas Jefferson. While the authors are themselves religious, and their belief in God is noticed through their books, the writings and philosophy are accessible, loved and resonate with people of all backgrounds and belief systems. The principals they preach are universal.

Core Principles of TJEd

1. Classics, Not Textbooks: TJEd emphasizes the use of classic literature, primary source documents, and original works over modern textbooks. By engaging with classics, students encounter timeless ideas and develop critical thinking skills. The quality matters, not the quantity.
2. Mentors, Not Professors: In TJEd, parents and educators act as mentors rather than traditional teachers. Mentors guide, inspire, and support students in their learning journeys, fostering a relationship based on mutual respect and trust.
3. Inspire, Not Require: Rather than imposing rigid curricula, TJEd encourages educators to inspire students by creating an environment rich in learning opportunities. The goal is to ignite a passion for learning and self-directed study, so requiring (or forcing) the academic process is discouraged, and counter-productive for the family seeking to foster a love of learning in their children. “Inspire, Not Require” looks different depending on their age/development (see below for more on phases of learning).
4. Structure Time, Not Content: TJEd recommends structuring the learning environment to provide time for study, exploration, and creativity while allowing students the freedom to pursue their interests and passions within that framework. When we first started homeschooling, my friend who uses this philosophy as her guidepost encouraged me to create a rhythm to our day. This greatly reduced pressure, and gave our family a flow that allowed us to spend time discovering the content that was most meaningful at the time. We did not make the rhythm fit the content I wanted to cover, but the content fit organically into the rhythms we set (breakfast/devotional, family read-a-loud, outside time, etc)
5. Quality, Not Conformity: TJEd values the pursuit of excellence and mastery in learning much more than adherence to standardized benchmarks like state standards, and conformity to norms. Each child’s educational journey is unique and should be respected, celebrated, and encouraged!
6. Simplicity, Not Complexity: Keeping the educational process simple and focused helps to avoid overwhelming students (and parents!) and allows them to engage deeply with the material.This would include minimizing busy work and concentrating on core subjects and classic works. This way, students develop a solid foundation without being distracted by superfluous content.

 

Phases of Learning in TJEd

TJEd outlines three main phases of learning that align with a child’s development:

1. Core Phase (0-8 years): The focus is on the development of character, family relationships, and a love of learning through play, exploration, and daily life activities. Formal academics are minimal during this phase. If a family has a faith tradition, this is where those beliefs would be instilled.
2. Love of Learning Phase (8-12 years): Children are encouraged to explore their interests and develop a love for learning through a variety of subjects. This phase is characterized by fun, engaging, and inspiring educational activities.
3. Scholar Phase (12-18 years): During this phase, students pursue more rigorous academic studies with greater depth and focus. They take on challenging projects, read classic literature, and work towards mastery in their chosen areas of interest. Shakespeare? Metallurgy? Assembling a computer? Any takers?
4. (Bonus Phase!) Depth Phase (18+ years): In this phase, students seek higher education, vocational training, or other specialized learning opportunities. The focus is on becoming experts and leaders in their chosen fields.

 

Implementation of TJEd

TJEd is flexible and can be adapted to the needs of each family. It encourages a collaborative approach where parents and children work together to create a learning environment that fosters growth, curiosity, and a lifelong LOVE of learning. The ultimate goal of TJEd is to develop individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of independent thought, leadership, and moral integrity. Students and parents alike can feel great about that!

In summary, the TJEd philosophy offers a holistic and individualized approach to education, prioritizing the development of character, critical thinking, and a deep love for learning. It seeks to prepare students to become thoughtful, capable, and inspired leaders in their communities and beyond. If this resonates, keep an eye out for their books at homeschool curriculum sales, or find them on Amazon.

• Leadership Education: The Phases of Learning
• A Thomas Jefferson Education: Teaching a Generation of Leaders for the 21st Century
• A Thomas Jefferson Education Home Companion
• Hero Education: A scholar Phase Guidebook for Teens, Parents, and Mentors
• Thomas Jefferson Education for Teens, and Every Adult Who Wants to Change the World
• The Student Whisperer

For those of you who have embarked on this approach, please share what has worked for your family, or any other important aspects we’ve missed.