TELOS SENIOR EXPERIENCE:
A CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN CAPSTONE
At Telos Academy, your senior year represents the culmination of your classical Christian education—a time to demonstrate the wisdom, virtue, and excellence you've cultivated throughout your academic journey. Our senior program prepares you not just for college, but for a lifetime of faithful service and thoughtful leadership in God's kingdom.
FLEXIBLE SENIOR COURSE SELECTION
Understanding that each student's path to graduation is unique, our seniors have the flexibility to choose which courses they need to complete their diploma requirements. Whether you need additional credits in specific subjects or wish to explore advanced electives, our academic advisors will work with you to create a personalized schedule that meets your individual needs and aspirations.
However, there is one non-negotiable requirement for all Telos Academy seniors: the Senior Thesis.
THE SENIOR THESIS: YOUR RHETORICAL MASTERPIECE
The Senior Thesis stands as the crowning achievement of your classical Christian education at Telos Academy. This capstone project embodies the very essence of what we've been preparing you for throughout your academic journey—the ability to think critically, research thoroughly, argue persuasively, and communicate eloquently from a distinctly Christian worldview.
What is the Senior Thesis?
Drawing from the rich traditions of classical education, our Senior Thesis is a comprehensive project that demonstrates your mastery of the classical arts of learning. As one graduate beautifully expressed, "The thesis is there to prove that we are no longer just students, absorbing information from other people. In the thesis project, we find our own sources and reach our own conclusions…we truly have to create something."
The Structure: Classical Rhetoric in Action
Your Senior Thesis will be composed according to the time-honored structure of classical rhetoric, specifically the six parts of discourse:
Introduction (Exordium) —Capturing your audience's attention and establishing your credibility
Statement of Facts (Narratio) —Presenting the background and context of your topic
Thesis Statement (Partitio) —Clearly articulating your central argument
Argument (Confirmatio) —Supporting your thesis with evidence and reasoning
Counterargument (Refutatio) —Addressing and refuting opposing viewpoints
Conclusion (Peroratio) —Delivering a compelling and memorable closing
Research and Writing Requirements
Your thesis will be a substantial piece of original research, typically 16-20 pages in length, drawing from a minimum of 12 scholarly sources. This isn't simply a research paper—it's an opportunity to engage with the great ideas and questions that have shaped human thought, all while developing your own reasoned conclusions through a biblical lens.
The Defense and Delivery
Following the completion of your written thesis, you'll present your work in a formal oral defense. This presentation, lasting 5-8 minutes, will be memorized and delivered before a panel of judges, including faculty members and invited guests. This oral defense embodies the classical tradition of public rhetoric and demonstrates your ability to articulate complex ideas with confidence and clarity.
Topics and Themes
Your thesis topic should reflect the integration of faith and learning that defines classical Christian education. Students often explore questions at the intersection of theology, philosophy, history, literature, and current events. Whether examining the influence of Christian thought on Western civilization, analyzing contemporary cultural challenges through a biblical worldview, or defending a particular theological or philosophical position, your thesis should demonstrate both scholarly rigor and spiritual maturity.
Mentorship and Support
You won't navigate this journey alone. Each senior is paired with a thesis advisor who provides guidance throughout the research, writing, and preparation process. Additionally, you'll participate in peer review sessions, receive feedback from instructors, and benefit from the collective wisdom of our academic community.
Why the Senior Thesis Matters
This project represents more than an academic exercise—it's a rite of passage that marks your transition from student to scholar, from receiver of knowledge to creator of wisdom. It demonstrates that you can think independently, research thoroughly, reason logically, and communicate persuasively—all essential skills for effective Christian leadership in any field.
SENIOR YEAR INVESTMENT + CELEBRATION
We believe your senior year should be both challenging and memorable. Our comprehensive senior experience includes meaningful activities and celebrations that honor your achievements while preparing you for the next chapter of your journey.
MAJOR SENIOR EVENTS
Senior Sunrise Begin your final year with intention and hope as you gather with your classmates for this beautiful dawn celebration. This special morning event marks the official start of your senior year journey, featuring reflection, fellowship, and the symbolic beginning of your last chapter at Telos Academy.
Telos Winter Ball As seniors, you'll have the honor and responsibility of organizing our annual Winter Ball—a formal celebration that brings together the entire El Paso community. This elegant evening showcases your leadership skills while creating magical memories for students across all grade levels.
Senior Sunset As your graduation approaches, join your fellow seniors for this meaningful twilight gathering. The Senior Sunset serves as a time of reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the friendships and memories you've made throughout your Telos Academy journey.
Senior Trip Adventure awaits in Manitou Springs, Colorado! Our seniors will stay on the beautiful Summit Ministries campus, receiving a comprehensive tour of this renowned Christian worldview training center. Experience high noon tea at the historic Glen Eyrie Castle, explore charming downtown Manitou Springs, and witness God's creation at the breathtaking Garden of the Gods with hiking opportunities. We'll also journey to the majestic Pikes Peak for an unforgettable mountain experience. This trip combines spiritual enrichment, natural beauty, and abundant fellowship as you create final memories with your graduating class. The cost of this incredible experience will be determined based on funds raised through the Telos Winter Ball.
Baccalaureate Service This sacred ceremony honors your academic achievements within the context of Christian worship and thanksgiving. During this meaningful service, you'll receive your engraved leather Study Bible—a treasured keepsake to carry God's Word with you into your future endeavors. Family, friends, and faculty gather to celebrate your growth in wisdom and character, with inspiring messages that prepare your heart for the transition ahead.
Graduation Ceremony The culmination of your classical Christian education—a formal ceremony celebrating your accomplishments and commissioning you for faithful service in God's kingdom. This dignified event marks your transition from student to graduate, surrounded by those who have supported your journey.
Senior Activities Fee: $187
What's INCLUDED in Your Senior Activities Fee:
Engraved Leather Study Bible ($50 value)
A treasured keepsake to carry God's Word with you into your future endeavorsGuest Speakers
Inspiring speakers for both our Baccalaureate service and graduation ceremonyVenue Rental
Professional graduation ceremony space worthy of celebrating your achievementsGraduation Photos
Professional photography capturing your special daySenior Sunrise & Senior Sunset Activities
Complete event coordination including decorations, balloons, paper goods, and flowers for these cherished traditions
Additional Costs (Parent/Student Responsibility):
Food & Refreshments
Students coordinate and provide food for Senior Sunrise, Senior Sunset, and graduation receptionGuest Meals at Senior Sunset
Parents/students responsible for guests' meal costsSenior T-Shirts
Cost and ordering details to be determinedIndividual Senior Photos
Optional professional photography feesGraduation Cap & Gown
Traditional graduation attire
IMPORTANT DATES
Senior Activities Fee Due: August 19th (first day of school)
Payment Method: Online payment button available for your convenience.
PREPARING FOR YOUR FUTURE
Your senior year at Telos Academy is designed to be a bridge between your foundational education and your calling as a Christian leader. Through the rigor of the Senior Thesis, the joy of senior celebrations, and the continued formation of your character, you'll be prepared to engage the world with wisdom, virtue, and eloquence.
We're excited to walk alongside you during this pivotal year as you demonstrate the fruit of your classical Christian education and prepare to impact the world for Christ's kingdom.
Questions about the senior program? Contact Cheryl Kolesar, Head of Upper Level, at upperlevel@telosonedayacademy.com for more information about course selection, thesis requirements, or senior activities.
