Imperial elementary students enjoy a multimedia learning activity.

Foundational Education

After an intense summer of preparation, the Philadelphia Church of God swung the doors open to Imperial Academy August 14 for its inaugural 2008-2009 school year. Imperial Academy consists of a primary and secondary school situated on the Herbert W. Armstrong College campus, reestablishing a school system originally founded by Herbert W. Armstrong.

Students in grades K-12 learn a comprehensive curriculum from experienced teachers who have transferred from local schools and from Armstrong College graduates in a positive and uplifting environment.

Imperial teaches young people how to base their learning and thinking on the Holy Bible. This foundation, revealed knowledge, opens deeper understanding in all subjects—from science to art to health and beyond—and prepares them for sound higher learning in young adulthood. The Bible, therefore, is the actual textbook for the first class of every day.

Imperial curriculum also uses A-Beka curriculum and standards (a common biblically based system developed for and used by mainstream Christian schools). Imperial also uses Oklahoma’s Priority Academic Students Skills as a reference to ensure that Imperial Academy is including everything the Oklahoma Educational Standards suggest and more.

In addition to the regular curriculum, primary school students have the opportunity to participate in a versatile music program and vocal ensemble (the Imperial Choraliers), and elementary physical education.

The high school provides a strong selection of core courses and electives, including: World Literature, American Literature, English Literature, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus, Math Analysis, Calculus, AP Statistics, Physical Science, Chemistry, Physics, Oklahoma History, World History, United States History and United States Government.

Other available courses include: physical education, health, independent voice, independent piano, Herbert W. Armstrong College choir, home economics (for girls), industrial arts (for boys), photography, computers, Irish Dance, and options for independent study including Spanish, French and German language, among others. Technology-based classes include: Computer Technology, Computer Programming, Hardware, and Business Computer Application such as Word Processing, Databases, Spreadsheets, and Graphics.

The technology that makes this curriculum available to more than just pcg youth in central Oklahoma is what makes Imperial an essential part of this end-time Work. In 2009-2010, the academy plans to make its curriculum available on the Internet, reaching many more teens and helping them improve their education as well.