Calder Classics is an educational boutique that offers customized learning experiences associated with the Classics. We are founded on the premise that understanding, and critique, of modern culture is enhanced through thoughtful interaction with the legacy of the ancients.

Since 2012 Calder Classics has offered Travel Programs for motivated high school and college students seeking interdisciplinary Greek, Latin, and Creative Writing experiences in Italy, Greece, and France during Spring Break and Summer. Since 2019, we have offered a year-round Online curriculum. Through their interaction with literature and history, art and architecture, our students deepen their understanding of ancient and modern culture and develop a lifelong appreciation of the Classics. Our approach to teaching includes an investigation into how and why the Classics have endured and woven themselves so deeply into our modern lives. We explore the original stories from multiple angles, along with later adaptations and interpretations, some direct and others divergent. During the last 12 years students have joined us from 216 public and private high schools in North America, South America and Asia and have gone on to attend 83 top colleges and universities.
Calder Classics continues to expand our mission to spread knowledge of the Greek and Roman classics to new and diverse audiences. We are proud of our work with Prep for Prep and the Squash and Education Alliance (SEA) to provide their program members with opportunities to travel abroad and learn about the Classics in their birthplace. We raise money in support of scholarships for Prep for Prep and SEA students to attend Calder Classics programs. Please see our DONATE page for instructions on how to make a tax-deductible donation!
Some of our teachers are available for our Classics Tutoring service in which Calder Classics Scholars provide one-on-one or small group tutoring sessions to middle school, high school, college, and adult students. Finally, our Rome, Florence, and Thessaloniki/Athens-based Scholars are available for bespoke Classics-oriented tours.
Led by Cindy Calder, our Scholars are all well established in their fields with exceptional creative, intellectual and academic backgrounds. Cindy developed this educational boutique in 2012 with the belief that studying the Classics, when complemented with a first-hand experience of art, history and culture, enriches younger students’ academic experience and encourages adults to re-engage in the joys of learning. She earned her B.A. from Dartmouth and her M.A. in Classics from Columbia University and taught at Trinity School and Brearley in New York City. She lives with her husband in Massachusetts and is the mother of four boys.
Please follow our Blog for our latest commentary on the Classics.

”I cannot stress enough what a magical and valuable time I had at Calder; the instructors are thrilling teachers, the students excel and the chaperones are inspiring; plus, everyone is really fun! Translating the Aeneid Book 6, De Rerum Natura, the Satyricon, and other esteemed texts, visiting Siena and Fiesole, and touring almost every Florentine Museum, brought tears of awe to my eyes daily on the Florence Program.” Maude G., student

"I want to thank you for teaching me so much Latin and offering exposure to more difficult texts. I now feel more prepared for next year all thanks to this program." Erin, student

"Calder Classics is an amazing experience that greatly improved my translation skills and added to the wonder of the city of Florence. Exploring the city and seeing some of the most beautiful art that exists was the highlight of my summer, especially because it was with such a great group of people. Cindy is fantastic, and I would recommend the program to all." - Anson, student

"It wasn’t until the Calder Classics Latin Program in Florence that I realized that Classics is the best way for an artist to ground his interests in academics. Art, culture, and the origin of the Romance languages come together in one program that is by far the only summer course I would consider returning to again. I recommend Calder Classics for those who want to challenge their intellect and immerse themselves in new experiences." - Matthew, student

"Calder Classics provides a first class opportunity for high school students to learn Latin and Art History from exceptional teachers. The program does a particularly wonderful job incorporating the treasures of Florence and Tuscany into the curriculum." - Debbie and Richard , parents

"I am a firm believer that happy kids love to learn, especially when they are in an environment surrounded by great educators and other enthusiastic students. My daughter loved your program. The photos and updates you sent home were priceless and she enjoyed the small intimate group. These kids will be friends for a long time." - Jojo, parent

Calder Classics is an educational boutique that offers customized learning experiences associated with the Classics. We are founded on the premise that understanding, and critique, of modern culture is enhanced through thoughtful interaction with the legacy of the ancients.

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