Mr. Sparks
Welcome!
"Think of your origin:
you were not made to live like the beasts,
but to pursue virtue and knowledge."
- Dante Alighieri, Inferno
you were not made to live like the beasts,
but to pursue virtue and knowledge."
- Dante Alighieri, Inferno
Meet your teacher
Mr. Sparks | Dean of Upper School
Latin, Political Philosophy, Moral Philosophy
Ascent Classical Academy Douglas County
ABOUT ME
I'm honored to join Ascent and to teach Moral & Political Philosophy (11th Grade) and Latin 1 (9th Grade) this year! I have an extensive background in ethics and moral philosophy, as well as experience in both Latin and Greek. I love to explore the connections between subjects, so students in my Moral & Political Philosophy course will explore the connections between ethics and history, religion, politics, and science; likewise, my budding Latinists will learn about all things Roman.
EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY
As Flannery O'Connor famously stated, "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you odd." A classical, liberal arts education should enable you to know the world, and intelligently ask why it is that way. This passes for 'odd' in today's culture. I believe that instead of cramming content into your head, the goal of education is to develop virtues (excellences) of thought and action that enable you, on your own, to love what is Good, Beautiful, and True. The study of Latin, for example, begets patience, precision, memory; moral and political philosophy encourage our growth in wisdom, self-restraint, justice, and friendship. In any case, I aim to lead you to more joyfully and fully participate in the world around you.
WHAT I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO
I look forward to Socratic discussions, practicing Latin conjugation and declension, House competition, and working with our seniors on their theses.
GET TO KNOW ME
what is your favorite book?
The Brothers Karamazov, the Divine Comedy, the Confessions, or the Lord of the Rings.
What is your favorite subject?
If we can count barbecue as a subject, then barbecue is my favorite subject. I've been told by many people that my brisket is better than any of the brisket they have tried in Kansas City's BBQ circuit.
If, however, barbecue is not a subject (and I think it should be), then philosophy and literature are my favorite subjects.
What do you Appreciate about ascent?
I appreciate our friendly and professional staff. We have a wonderful community here and I am thrilled to be part of it.
What is your favorite Game?
My favorite games to play: football, basketball, dodgeball, Risk, tabletop strategy games.
My favorite games to watch: NBA (especially Denver and Golden State), international rugby (South Africa), anything Notre Dame.