Mandan Classical Academy

OPENING FALL 2026

Our model

Serving as the preparatory middle school for the Chesterton Academy of Mandan, the Mandan Classical Academy serves students in grades 6-8.

Our classical middle school curriculum is everything we cherish about the Chesterton Academy model, but modified for the middle school grades. Our team of experienced classical educators designed our curriculum as a broad liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on the cultivation of Christian virtues and an appreciation of beauty. Each year builds on the previous one, starting with sixth year students studying the ancient world, moving to the medieval world in seventh, and the modern world in eighth grade.

The Mandan Classical Academy and Chesterton Academy of Mandan share a location, our Board of Directors, Core Team, school leadership and teaching staff.


“At the University of Mary, we have been consistently impressed by graduates of Chesterton Academies. They are joyful, intellectually engaged, and exceptionally well-prepared for university study. I welcome efforts to bring classical education inspired by the Chesterton model to our region and wish Mandan Classical Schools every success as it begins this important work.”

Monsignor James Patrick Shea
President of the University of Mary

Monsignor James Patrick Shea, President of the University of Mary

Upcoming Events

  • School Community Social

    AUG. 17, 5-7:30 PM
    Sertoma Park, Shelter 10, Bismarck

    Join us for an evening potluck to meet the students, families, and teachers in our school community.

  • School Beautification

    AUG 21 & 22, from 9 AM - 3 PM
    410 Collins Ave, Mandan

    Stop by to help arrange furniture and prepare the school for the beginning of the year!

  • Mandatory Information Night

    AUG 30, at 6:30 PM
    410 Collins Ave, Mandan

    Join us for an evening of useful information for parents and students right before we begin the year.

  • First Day of School

    AUG. 31
    Join us in prayer as we welcome students for the first day of school (ever!) at Mandan Classical Schools

  • Harvest Gala

    SEPT. 12
    Our first major fundraising gala benefitting Mandan Classical Schools. Join us for an unforgettable evening of dinner, dancing, and fellowship in support of our students and school community.


Statement of Unity

The Mandan Classical Schools (Mandan Classical Academy & Chesterton Academy of Mandan) exist to educate all students in the Mandan area who wish to receive a classical education in the Catholic tradition. While we are not a parochial or diocesan school, we seek to build bridges between the three holy parishes in Mandan: Spirit of Life, Saint Joseph, and Christ the King.

Our students will regularly attend mass at all three of these parishes and learn more of the excellent ministries these parishes provide by offering their time in service of their programs. Mandan is a community with a long and rich history of educating young men and women in the faith. We hope to join in this noble mission by welcoming all as Christ, participating in the life of the three local parishes, and giving our time and talent to build up the Catholic Church in Mandan of generations to come.