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Fall Retreat 2025

October 23-25, 2025

Covenant School of Dallas, Texas

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” – Psalm 34:8

In a world of increasing complexity, the most effective school leaders are not merely strategic, they are deeply good.

This fall, join fellow classical Christian leaders for a retreat centered on the enduring theme of goodness as understood through the classical and Christian tradition. Over three days, you’ll step away from daily demands to reflect, pray, and renew your calling as a leader.

Through plenary sessions, meaningful peer dialogue, and rhythms of contemplation, we’ll explore:

  • Philosophy: How the ancients understood the good as the highest end of the soul, shaping our vision for human flourishing.
  • Pedagogy: How we train, mentor, and lead others toward virtue in our schools.
  • Formation: How personal and communal practices align our affections, wills, and actions with what is truly good.

More Details

Together, we will ask:

  • What is goodness?
  • How is it cultivated in the life of a leader?
  • How does it shape our schools, teams, and the students in our care?
  • What wisdom does our tradition offer in this pursuit?

Featured Sessions:

  • The Conception of Goodness
  • How Do We Build Good Teachers Who Do Good Things in the Classroom
  • Spiritual Formation: Forming Ourselves Before Forming Our Students
  • Panel- Institutional Coherence Around Goodness
  • Historical Case Study: Geneva Academy, Switzerland

Who Should Attend:
Seasoned Heads of School and classical Christian leaders seeking refreshment, reflection, and renewed vision.

This is more than a retreat. It’s a time to rediscover a form of leadership rooted in the goodness of God, aimed at the good of others, and grounded in timeless wisdom.

Event Schedule

Come early: Texas School Choice Seminar begins at 9:00 AM on Thursday, October 23rd.
More details
Thursday, October 23
4:00 PM
Registration Opens
4:30 PM
First Session Begins
Friday, October 24
9:30 AM
First Session Begins
4:00 PM
Day Wraps Up
Saturday, October 25
9:30 AM
First Session Begins
3:00 PM
Event Concludes

FAQ

When and where is the SCL Fall Retreat 2025?

The event takes place from October 23–25, 2025, at the Covenant School of Dallas, located at 7300 Valley View Lane, Dallas, TX 75240.

What is the nearest airport to the venue?

The nearest airport is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which is a 15–20 minute drive from the Covenant School of Dallas.

What is the registration deadline?

The Early Bird registration cutoff date is Thursday, October 10, 2025.

How do I register for the event?

Registration for this event will be live on our website by the end of August.

Where should I stay for the event?

We recommend staying at The Westin Dallas Park Central, just a 5-minute drive from the event venue. Address: 12720 Merit Dr, Dallas, TX 75251.

How do I book my hotel room?

Book your group rate for the fall retreat here. The group rate booking cutoff date is September 29, 2025. The group rate is $169 per night plus tax, $10 for parking.

What time does the event start and end each day?

  • Thursday, October 23: Registration opens at 4:00 PM, and the first session begins at 4:30PM.
  • Friday, October 24: The first session begins at 9:30 AM, and the day wraps up around 4:00 PM.
  • Saturday, October 25: The first session begins at 9:30 AM and the event concludes by 3:00 PM.

Will there be time to connect with other attendees?

Yes! Work groups and table discussions provide ample opportunity for collaboration. You’ll also have time during the Thursday night reception and optional dinner on Friday night to connect with fellow leaders and educators.

How do I get to the venue from the airport?

The venue is about 15–20 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. You can take a taxi, ride-share service (Uber/Lyft), or rent a car to reach the Covenant School of Dallas.

Is there parking available at the venue?

Yes, there is on-site parking at the Covenant School of Dallas, and the Westin Dallas Park Central offers parking for $10 per night.

Are meals provided during the event?

Yes, heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served during the evening reception on Thursday, October 23. Lunch will be provided on both Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

If you have specific dietary needs, please reach out to the event organizers in advance.

What is the recommended attire for the event?

Business casual attire is recommended.

What should I bring to the event?

Bring a notebook, pen, and any devices you may need for note-taking or session participation. Consider a reusable water bottle and anything else that helps you stay comfortable and engaged throughout the sessions.

What if I need to cancel my registration?

Contact marissa@societyforclassicalearning.org with any registration questions.

Who can I contact for more information?

Please contact Josh Dyson, this event’s program coordinator, with any further questions. We are happy to assist!

As a member, you receive access to all of the most recent summer conference content, including 80+ workshops, plenary speakers, etc., plus access to the full library of past content.

Conference Sessions

Ensure increased visibility for your school by having it listed on the Find a School Map, connecting you with potential students and families seeking a classical Christian learning environment.

Map Feature

Unlock a wealth of exclusive resources, such as research studies and articles, providing valuable insights and knowledge for your school's continuous improvement.

Resources

Enable your school to easily post job openings and attract qualified candidates with the Career Center, simplifying the hiring process.

Career Center

Enjoy exclusive discounts on all SCL events and services, empowering you to access valuable resources and opportunities for your school's growth at a more affordable cost.

Exclusive Discounts

Get access to exclusive cohorts and workshops!

Cohorts and Workshops

SCL conducts school-wide surveys to provide relevant information to the classical Christian community as well as access to in-depth research with partner organizations like the Barna Group.

Research

A connected community of classical Christian thought leaders, including heads of school, board members, marketing and admissions directors, development and fundraising directors, academic deans, grammar and upper school heads, and teachers from all grade levels are here to support and encourage one another.

Community

Member-exclusive Coaching Call sessions. 15-20 online sessions each year from key-thought leaders on topics ranging from legal and operational issues to pedagogical and philosophical discussions. Think of it as a mini-conference each month!

Coaching Calls

Gain new insight, knowledge, and skills around best practices in a short, intensive format with workshops or a year-long mentorship experience with cohorts. Designed for administrators, teachers, parents, leaders, and department heads – anyone seeking to learn and grow in their role.

Conference & Workshops

Our network of seasoned professionals is available to navigate your questions and brainstorm solutions with you. Let us know how you want to direct your time and we will pair you with the senior leader that best suits your school’s unique needs.

Consulting