Scottsdale, Arizona, May 29, 2026
Photo: arizonachristian.com
Arizona Christian Academy is opening its doors this fall as the first Orthodox Christian elementary school in the Phoenix valley, offering families a new educational option that integrates rigorous academics with Orthodox faith formation.
Operating out of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Scottsdale, Arizona, the school launches as a K–3 program this year with plans to grow into a full K–8 academy. It will operate under a hybrid model, with students attending campus three days a week (Tuesday through Thursday) for direct instruction, while Monday and Friday involve home learning guided by the school’s lesson plans.
“We wanted something where parents could be involved, where we are centered on Christ, and we are giving solid academic foundational skills to our children so that they learn how to learn, not what to learn,” said Tina Kanelos Jones, the school’s founder and head of school, in a recent presentation. “As I design the school, I’m creating the school that I want my child to be a part of.”
“There’s a lot of new families coming into Orthodoxy, families that are Orthodox-curious and interested in the faith,” Jones said. “Arizona Christian Academy exists to serve families seeking an Orthodox Christian education rooted in classical methods and rigorous academics.”
A classical foundation rooted in Orthodoxy
Photo: arizonachristian.com
Arizona Christian Academy pairs classical education methodology with Orthodox Christian values. The school uses Spalding phonics for language arts and Singapore Math for mathematics—both curricula known for building strong foundational skills.
“Classical education teaches students to read deeply, write clearly, and reason carefully, rather than simply memorize and repeat,” according to the school’s mission. The classical model’s emphasis on virtue and the pursuit of “the true, the good, and the beautiful” aligns naturally with Orthodox Christian education.
Weaving Orthodox faith throughout the curriculum
The school, which will begin classes on September 1, mirroring the start of the Orthodox liturgical year, is intentional about integrating Orthodoxy into every subject.
In science, students will learn about gardening while exploring God’s creation. History lessons connect Biblical narratives—studying Mesopotamia alongside the story of Noah and the аrk. Language arts incorporates prayers, sayings of the saints, and Orthodox hymns through recitation and copywork exercises.
Fr. Jacob Saylor of Assumption Greek Orthodox Church where the school is located serves as spiritual adviser. The school begins each day with prayer and plans to incorporate liturgical services throughout the year, with students participating in portions of the Church’s services.
Photo: arizonachristian.com
Every Wednesday is designated a fasting day, with vegan meals reflecting the Orthodox practice. The school also follows the Orthodox liturgical calendar, with special meals during the Nativity Fast and Lenten periods.
Small classes
Arizona Christian Academy maintains a maximum class size of 15 students per classroom. Tina Kanelos Jones, who spent over 20 years in education and operates her own tutoring company, emphasizes that small class sizes and quality teachers are the two most important factors in student success.
Visit the school’s website to learn more.
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