Lifelong educator Joe Michelena, currently a math teacher at Sacred Heart School, will be the first headmaster of the Chesterton Academy of the Immaculate Conception when it opens in Turlock later this year.
“I’m excited and honored and a little bit nervous,” said Michelena, a graduate of Central Catholic High School in Modesto who went on to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Stanislaus State; he also holds a math special certification from the University of Notre Dame. “It’s a new endeavor, and it’s different than other high schools in the area in that it offers a classical education centered on Jesus Christ.”
Chesterton will implement a classic curriculum based upon the Socratic teaching method — dialogue-based teaching that open-ended questioning to develop critical thinking — and will offer courses in the humanities (literature, history, philosophy, theology, Latin, debate), math, science, and fine arts (music, art, drama). Additional courses in physical education, health and capstone also will be included in the curriculum.
“One of the biggest differences is that the class style and structure will be different,” said Michelena, who began teaching in 1996 and has taught at Stan State, Modesto Junior College, Modesto City Schools, and the last five years at Sacred Heart. “It’s less lecture and more discussion-based — more discussion among the students. Though, Latin and math will still require a lot of direct instruction. And I think it will take a little while for the students to get on board with this type of education since most of them won’t be as familiar with it.”
Rev. Myron Cotta, Bishop of the Archdiocese of Stockton, gave approval last year for the Chesterton Academy of the Immaculate. The academy will enroll solely freshmen and sophomores for the 2026-27 school year, with its first graduating class slated to be in 2029.
The school will operate within the parish hall — which features five 20-foot by 18-foot classrooms and a production stage — at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 2602 S. Walnut Rd. in Turlock.
Registration began last October and more than 20 students have registered, putting the academy ahead of its intended goal for its inaugural school year.
Tuition for 2026-27 will be $7,500, and the school is not exclusive to members of the Catholic faith.
Chesterton Academy is named for Englishman G.K. Chesterton (1874-1936), a 20th century author and philosopher who converted to Catholicism in 1922.
According to school officials, the Chesterton curriculum meets and exceeds California state requirements, and the Chesterton Schools Network is the fastest-growing network of Catholic schools in the country.
“Something really important to know is that the curriculum is all integrated,” said Michelena, who said the hiring of faculty will be the next area of focus. “What you’re learning in history is supporting what you’re learning in literature and theology. The way this curriculum has been developed is impressive.”
Michelena and his wife, Sarah, now in her eighth year as principal of Sacred Heart School, are the parents of four children, all of whom attend SHS.
For information about enrollment, visit chestertonic.org.
