Scott Piland

Scott grew up as a farm-boy in the midwest and ran wild in the woods every chance he could get. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Theology and Philosophy from Moody Bible Institute and a master’s degree in theology from Southern Seminary, with both courses of study including a heavy dose of philosophy, history, and languages. His involvement in classical education spans 15 years in a variety of roles. From 2006-2010 he taught online Logic and Latin with Memoria Press Academy, and taught Formal, Informal, and Material Logic at Highlands Latin School in Louisville, a top 1% classical school in the country.

From 2010 - 2020 he was the Managing Director of Memoria Press Online Academy, one of the first online classical schools in the United States. In early 2020 he resigned from his post at Memoria Press Online Academy to focus on leadership development and training within the church, and to devote more time to personally teaching and tutoring students.

He works primarily in leadership development and training, serves in a local church, and also teaches Math and Latin in his family’s homeschool. His favorite work from antiquity is Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, and enjoys reading in the area of Irish and Scottish history. He has a passion for anything written by C.S. Lewis, and when he isn’t working, teaching, or wrangling children, he enjoys spending time with his wife in the outdoors. He’s worked with so many kind, intelligent, and knowledgeable people, and he can't wait to work with your students.

Teaching Philosophy

I’m committed to the rebuilding and preservation of Western Civilization, and the ‘method’ I advocate for is called ‘The Trivium’, though this isn’t the only consideration (e.g., The Quadrivium). Here are the basic elements to my approach:

Knowledge and Preparation

The knowledge, preparation, enthusiasm, and passion of the teacher are what make or break a class. This excites, motivates, and inspires students, plus makes class enjoyable. Students thrive on well-prepared lessons in which they learn challenging material in incremental steps.

Confidence

I try to communicate confidence and authority, in a gracious way. I have command of the material, manage the classroom well, and gain knowledge of different students. I aim to achieve the maximum amount of learning while being time-sensitive.

Gravitas

My personal passion, energy, knowledge, and preparation is key, so that subjects are understandable and interesting. Students respect and admire this, and in my experience this wards off most discipline problems.

Excellent Communication

Excellent communication and communicating high academic and behavioral expectations for students is essential. I like to show each student that I care, but I also run a tight ship in class.

Planning, Evenly-Paced

I tend to over-plan and also keep a quick, even pace. Nothing is worse than students not participating and me doing all the talking. Teacher-led engagement is ideal.

Monitor and Call on Students

I make sure each student is engaged and call on each student regularly.

Statement of Faith

I've been a follower of Jesus for 20 years and I personally affirm the Apostle's and the Nicene Creed.