Question:  Why does CGS teach French rather than a more practical language like Spanish.

Answer:  Spanish is undoubtedly an important language and one that should be studied by anyone who has an interest in Hispanic civilization or practical business concerns that require such a knowledge.  However, the most significant languages, historically, of the past 700 years are, in rough order of rank,  French, Italian, English, and German.  France has played a key role in world events throughout this period.  It is the language of diplomacy and courtesy, and in the English-speaking world, French (along with Latin) is the language of law.  For both good and ill the French have been among the dominant national influences in literature and philosophy, and for many centuries the knowledge of French was taken for granted among educated people.  Since the aim of the Cottage Grove School is to provide the best possible traditional education, special emphasis has been put on Latin and French.  

Question:  CGS is described as a “Christian, Classical and Southern Academy.”  This sounds pretty exclusive.  Does this mean you only admit Southern Christians?  And what do you mean by Southern? Does this include slavery and segregation? Why not simply say "American"?

Answer:  CGS is a Christian school, but we have no problem in admitting non-Southerners, as, in fact, we already have.  In describing CGS as "Southern," we are, of course, referring to the American South, which is as American as any part of the country.  The South has had its share of problems and moral failings, as has every region, but the South also maintains many important distinctive traditions, such as good manners, strong families, and Christian morals, that are disappearing in many parts of the country.  The South has also produced many of  America's greatest statesmen, such as George Washington, Patrick Henry, Thomas Jefferson, and John C. Calhoun.  The South has also contributed many of the country's finest writers, from the days of Edgar Allan Poe, William Gilmore Simms, and Mark Twain, to the time of William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Walker Percy.  Even in the 21st century, Southern writers continue to distinguish themselves.  At Cottage Grove School, students will learn to love Henry County, the state of Tennessee, and the United States of America.  They will also learn to respect the memory of their ancestors.  Southern history and tradition will not be shielded from criticism, but all things Southern will not be subjected to the prejudice and hatred that has become all too common.