Jill Dixon's Eclectic Academy of Learning (EAL) is a homeschooling support program heading into its 29th year for the 2026-2027 school year. It offers a unique, eclectic approach to education for students in grades K-12, blending various educational philosophies. The program for the 2026-2027 school year will focus on "American I 1500 - 1860" as its central theme, integrated across multiple subjects. EAL emphasizes a structured, college-preparatory curriculum with a strong focus on the humanities, language arts, and critical thinking skills, delivered through weekly drop-off classes and at-home assignments. It operates through multiple campuses in Georgia and Texas, and offers accreditation services for high school students in the Savannah area. The program was founded by Jill J. Dixon, who has extensive experience in education and homeschooling. Jill is the director of the Savannah Campus.
Key Themes and Important Ideas/Facts:
1. Program Philosophy and Educational Approach:
- Eclectic Method: EAL is called "eclectic" because it utilizes "the BEST of a variety of methods, teaching philosophies and techniques." This approach is designed to cater to diverse learning styles and maximize student learning and retention.
- Philosophies incorporated include: Classical Method, Unit Studies/Interrelated Education, Charlotte Mason Approach, Multi-Intelligence or Learning Styles Theory, Traditional Textbooks, and Core Knowledge-selected-revised/Cultural Literacy.
- "Most children do not benefit or learn as much when they are forced to learn through one method alone."
- Focus on Core Skills: EAL aims "To equip students in the five most important elements of a superior education: reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking".
- Grade Level Content: Explorers (K-3): Focus on complete literacy (reading decoding, writing, comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, speaking, listening), thinking skills, and instilling a love of learning. In-class activities include read-alouds, phonogram/word family review, vocabulary games, spelling tests, Reader's Theatre, grammar review, and art related to history. At-home work includes vocabulary, read-alouds, comprehension sheets, phonics, grammar worksheets, writing assignments, timeline activities, and geography practice.
- Middle Grades (4-8) & High School (9-12): Academic content includes: Writing/Composition (16 genres, research paper), History (Ancient, Medieval, World, American), Critical Thinking Skills, Vocabulary (Greek and Latin Roots), Speech and Oratory Skills, English Grammar and Usage, Editing and Proofreading Skills, Literary Analysis/Critical Reading, Literature (American, British, World), Bible History (Year 1), Philosophy (Year 1), Study Skills, Test Taking skills.
- Middle Grades (4-8) specifically focus on writing an autobiography and expanding vocabulary.
- High School (9-12) focuses on SAT/ACT verbal preparation, AP/CLEP Exam preparation, and can earn credits in Literature, History, Geography, Government, and Advanced Composition.
- Optional Classes (Savannah Campus): Science (PreK-12), Spanish I (Grades 7-12), Spanish II (Grades 9-12), Math (4-12), and Guided Study Hall are available on Thursdays for additional fees. Other campuses may offer these subjects.