AACS Today: Recent Episodes
AACS
AACS Today is the official podcast from the American Association of Christian Schools. In each episode, we'll tackle the tough topics and questions facing Christian school leaders and teachers in the twenty-first century.
Matt and AACS Government Relations Specialist, Olivia Summers, provide a comprehensive recap of the 32nd annual Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC) in Washington, D.C.. This year’s event brought together 40 students from 18 states to explore public policy through the lens of a Christian worldview, casting a vital vision for politics as a ministry.
The hosts explore the highlights of a busy week, including the intensive Mock Senate simulation and a historic briefing held on the White House grounds. Listeners will hear how students engaged directly with the legislative process by meeting with congressional offices to advocate for the education freedom tax credit. The discussion also features insights from guest speakers like Dr. Matthew Spalding and Tim Goeglein, alongside a panel of YLDC alumni currently serving as congressional staffers. From tours of the U.S. Capitol during the America 250 celebrations to a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, discover how this program equips the next generation of engaged citizens. Tune in to learn more about the application process for the 2027 conference.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison sit down with departing summer interns Jonathan Dys and Seth Walker to reflect on their eight-week experience in Washington, D.C.. The conversation explores the interns' professional growth as they transitioned to the rigors of a full-time office schedule and navigated the complex "politics within the politics" on Capitol Hill.
The guests highlight their favorite moments, specifically their leadership roles during the Youth Leadership Development Conference (YLDC), where they mentored students and managed behind-the-scenes logistics. Seth shares how the internship provided clarity on his vocational path, leading him to prioritize ministry while maintaining a deep interest in the political process. Jonathan discusses how the high-energy demands of the summer "stretched" him, reinforcing his studies in history and the nature of human dynamics in government. The episode emphasizes the core philosophy that a career in public policy serves as a form of ministry and service to God. Finally, the hosts provide details on the application timeline for the 2027 summer internship program to continue this leadership pipeline.
Jamison welcomes Dr. Matthew Mehan back to the podcast to discusses his landmark work, The American Book of Fables, an illustrated heirloom collection released to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary,. Dr. Mehan explores his mission to "restore the American imagination" by restocking the cultural pantry with moral images that foster virtue and wisdom in a free people. Organized into thirteen chapters representing distinct American regions—from the Everglades to the Great Lakes—the book weaves together nursery rhymes, fables, and primary sources that explain and elaborate on the core principles of the Declaration of Independence.
The conversation highlights how these stories, featuring American wildlife such as bison and beavers instead of traditional Aesopic lions, serve as "moral puzzles" designed to shape the hearts and minds of "littles, middles, and bigs." Dr. Mehan emphasizes that civic rebuilding is a multi-generational endeavor rooted in patriotism, gratitude, and the cultivation of "gentle manliness and womanliness." Listeners will gain insight into the intensive research and artistic collaboration required to produce the book's stunning oil paintings and watercolors,. Ultimately, this episode showcases how fables offer a profound avenue for training witty, wise citizens prepared for a life of service.
In this episode, AACS Government Relations Director Jamison Coppola is joined by Randy Melchert, Executive Director of Accord Kids, to discuss the historic Education Freedom Tax Credit. Passed as part of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, this provision allows taxpayers to redirect $1,700 of their tax liability toward student scholarships, a program estimated to qualify 85–90% of all children in the United States.
The conversation provides a detailed analysis of a recent "two-page preview" from the Department of Treasury regarding forthcoming regulations. The experts clarify critical updates, including Treasury's decision to define a school's location based on charitable solicitation registration rather than physical storefronts, and their intent to use commercial data for instant income verification. Additionally, the episode addresses outstanding concerns such as the "marriage penalty" and cross-border eligibility for students. Whether you are a school leader or a parent, this discussion offers the essential tools and insights needed to prepare for this transformational shift in education funding. For more information and to check eligibility in your area, visit accordkids.org.
In this episode of AACS Today, Matt introduces the association's newest summer interns, Seth Walker and Johnathan Dys. Selected through a highly competitive process, these students from California Baptist University and Hillsdale College join the Washington office to gain firsthand experience at the intersection of faith and public policy.
The discussion highlights the interns' first days on the ground, which included attending meetings in House and Senate buildings and connecting with conservative policy groups. Seth and Jonathan reflect on their personal journeys and their shared desire to explore the "ministry of politics"—a core AACS philosophy that views political engagement as a legitimate calling and service to God. From navigating the intricacies of federal advocacy to managing the logistical demands of the Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC), the interns share their goals for professional and spiritual growth. This episode provides an encouraging look at how the AACS is equipping a new generation of leaders to be a faithful "remnant" in the nation’s capital.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison explore the concept of "active waiting" as it relates to both the spiritual life and the current legislative landscape. The primary focus of the discussion is the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC), as the association continues to await critical draft regulations from the Treasury Department. With the program set to take effect in 2027, the hosts emphasize the necessity for regulatory clarity by late summer to allow schools and scholarship-granting organizations sufficient time to prepare families and donors.
The episode highlights significant state-level developments, celebrating major "opt-in" victories in New York and Colorado, while providing updates on legislative battles in Virginia and Maryland. The hosts also address concerns regarding potential state-level over-regulation and the importance of maintaining the EFTC as a straightforward federal provision. Concluding with a reflection on waiting as a spiritual discipline, this episode encourages listeners to remain faithfully engaged in advocacy while trusting in God’s timing for the future of school choice.
In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison explore the shifting landscape of religious liberty and the emergence of a "new day" in Washington, D.C. The discussion focuses on the recent work of the Religious Liberty Commission and the Department of Justice's Anti-Christian Bias Task Force, which were established to investigate the "weaponization" of government mechanisms against Christian institutions.
Through a detailed look at cases involving Liberty University and Grand Canyon University, the hosts illustrate how administrative processes have been used as punishment, often resulting in fines significantly higher than those issued to secular universities for arguably more severe violations. The episode also addresses the "Rededicate 250" event and Speaker Johnson’s articulation of the foundational American belief that human rights are endowed by God rather than granted by the government. Concluding with a call to "eternal vigilance," listeners are encouraged to participate in the upcoming public comment period for the Commission’s report to help preserve religious conscience and practice for future generations.
In this episode, Matt Jamison explore the vital role of Scripture memory through the competitive sport of Bible quizzing. The conversation begins by revisiting the historical "Old Deluder Satan Act" of 1647, which established public education for the purpose of teaching children to read the Bible and guard against spiritual ignorance. Joining the program to share his passion is Micah Folkers, founder of the Cameroon Quizzing Association and a dedicated "Bible quiz evangelist."
Micah breaks down the mechanics and philosophy of Bible quizzing, describing it as a high-intensity sport that demands split-second strategy and deep textual mastery. Beyond the competition, the episode examines how quizzing serves as a powerful solution to biblical illiteracy, building a vibrant school culture by making the study of God’s Word exciting and relational. Whether you are looking to revitalize a legacy program or start from "ground zero," this episode provides practical tools for integrating quizzing into your school's mission. Listeners will also gain insight into the international expansion of the sport and find resources to help their students take the "next step" in their spiritual walk.
For more information about getting a Bible Quiz program started at your school, be sure to visit https://www.biblequizzer.net/.
In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Dr. Coppola sit down with Sara Bookout, Director of the Hope Allen Center for Exceptional Children, to discuss the critical role of special education within the Christian school and church. As many ministries seek to improve their support for students with disabilities, this conversation highlights the Special Education Summit as a premier resource for professional development and spiritual encouragement.
Sarah outlines the summit’s unique approach, which brings together parents, educators, and church leaders to share practical tools and success stories. The discussion explores key concepts such as "putting people before paper"—a leadership philosophy focused on supporting teachers and families through efficient systems and relational ministry. Listeners will gain insight into the summit's diverse offerings, ranging from sessions on neuroplasticity and classroom management to legal planning for families and establishing sustainable church ministries.
Whether your organization is just starting to consider special education or is looking to expand an existing program, this episode provides a roadmap for taking the "next step" in serving families with special needs. Join us to learn how your ministry can find the refreshment and equipment necessary to bear one another’s burdens through excellence in special education.
In this episode of AACS Today, Jamison is joined by Pastor Chase Davis to discuss his book, Offensive Christianity: Restoring the Strength of Men in a Feminized Age. The conversation explores the reality that God-designed masculine traits—such as ambition, assertiveness, and physical energy—are increasingly viewed as "offensive" in modern culture and educational settings.
Davis addresses the unintended suppression of male instincts in schools and challenges the "managerialism" that prioritizes mere "niceness" over biblical virtues. He redefines meekness as "power under control" rather than a call to weakness or passivity. The discussion provides vital insights for Christian educators, urging them to audit their philosophies to ensure they are raising courageous young men who exercise dominion and agency for God's glory. Ultimately, Davis calls for a civilizational renewal through the restoration of authentic, biblical masculinity.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison provide an inspiring recap of the recent AACS National Fine Arts Competition held at Bob Jones University. The discussion highlights some of the the updates of the event—dubbed "Nationals 2.0"—which introduced exciting new categories like classical guitar and animation videography to reflect student interests. The hosts celebrate the remarkable excellence of nearly 2,000 students competing across five core divisions: Bible, Music, Speech, Art, and Academics. Key highlights include a breakdown of the revised Cup of Excellence scoring system and new division-specific awards recognizing standout achievements from states including Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, New Jersey and eventual Cup of Excellence winner, Virginia. Join us as we celebrate the dedication of students and educators striving to develop their God-given talents for His glory.
This episode of AACS Today features Billy Hutchinson, Director of Colson Educators at the Colson Center. Hutchinson addresses the vital distinction between simply teaching Bible stories and cultivating a comprehensive biblical worldview that informs every aspect of a student's life. He argues that while many schools operate with a biblical framework, a true biblical worldview requires teachers to act as “worldview communicators” who replicate their own character and faith in their students.
The discussion introduces a framework where the campus becomes a manifestation of culture, shaped specifically by what is stated, tolerated, and celebrated. By emphasizing “relational capital” and a leadership style that balances justice and mercy, Hutchinson illustrates how schools can foster genuine human flourishing. He also highlights free professional development resources available through Colson Educators, including worldview formation courses and the “Planning Period” newsletter, designed to help busy teachers integrate faith into subjects like math and science. This episode serves as a practical guide for leaders striving to ensure their school environment is a living embodiment of the biblical worldview.
For more information about Colson Educators, visit this link.
To signup for the Planning Period newsletter, click here.
Join Matt and Jamison as they welcome back Tim Goeglein, Vice President for External Relations at Focus on the Family, for an insightful discussion on his forthcoming book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family. In this episode, Goeglein explores the urgent need to "restate the obvious" by returning to first principles—faith, family, and marriage—to counter aggressive secularism.
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on "restoring the American male," addressing the crisis of fatherlessness and the cultural shift toward a more "feminized" society. Goeglein presents sobering data on male loneliness and employment trends, arguing that strong marriages remain the highest predictor of life satisfaction in America. The discussion also highlights the importance of historical literacy and character-based education in sustaining a constitutional republic. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that true restoration will not come from government or politics, but from a bottom-up reclaiming of the foundational values that define the American experience. This summary provides a roadmap for listeners dedicated to preserving a legacy of virtue for the next generation.
Tim's book can be purchased here or at your favorite bookstore.
In this episode, Jamison interviews Dr. Matthew Mehan, Associate Dean at Hillsdale College, and together, they explore the modern identity crisis facing young men. The discussion delves into the rise of the "manosphere"—a digital ecology of influencers who, while filling a cultural vacuum, often promote a "toxified" version of masculinity characterized by misogyny, vanity, and a lack of self-restraint.
Countering these trends, Dr. Mehan argues for a return to true masculinity modeled after Christ and virtuous fatherhood, emphasizing roles as protectors, providers, and men of wit. He proposes practical solutions for educators to foster academic and character growth. The episode also previews Dr. Mehan’s work, The American Book of Fables, which offers redemptive stories of family life and masculine virtue. This podcast serves as a "soulful venture" for those dedicated to shaping the next generation of responsible men through sacrifice and intentional modeling.
Join Jamison as he welcomes Luke Ball, an alumnus of the AACS Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC) and a prominent political communications strategist. Luke shares his journey from a student exploring worldviews to a professional navigating the fast-paced world of Capitol Hill and high-level presidential communications. The conversation dives deep into the "ministry of politics," emphasizing the biblical foundation of government service found in Romans 13. Luke provides a candid look at the spiritual challenges of Washington, D.C., reflecting on his own "quarter-life crisis" and the danger of placing one's identity in a job title rather than in Christ. Listeners will gain valuable insights on overcoming the "sacred-secular split" and the necessity of maintaining a fellowship of believers within high-pressure vocations. This episode serves as both a roadmap and an encouragement for the next generation, offering practical counsel on pursuing a career in public service while serving "someone big"—God himself.
In this episode of, Jamison is joined by Dr. Matthew Spalding, a distinguished constitutional scholar and Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College. They discuss Dr. Spalding’s award-winning book, The Making of the American Mind, which provides a clause-by-clause commentary on the Declaration of Independence. Spalding argues that while many Americans "venerate" the Declaration, few truly understand its deep philosophical and theological roots. The conversation explores the transition from instinctive patriotism—a natural love for one’s home—to reflective patriotism, which is rooted in a deep understanding of the nation’s founding principles. Spalding describes the Declaration as a "symphony" of legislative logic that synthesizes reason and revelation, drawing from Greek, Roman, and Christian traditions to establish the "laws of nature and of nature's God". For Christian educators, the episode offers profound insights into using storytelling and historical truth to help students transcend themselves and "know" the country they are called to love. Ultimately, the Declaration is presented as the "electric cord" that unifies all Americans through its timeless, universal claim that all are created equal.
In this episode of AACS Today, Jamison is joined by Dan Zacharias, Executive Director of the Old Dominion Association of Church Schools (ODACS), to discuss the landscape of Christian education in Virginia. As ODACS celebrates its 50th anniversary, the conversation highlights the association's unique role in supporting member schools across the state of Virginia.
A primary focus is the recent legislative battle over House Bill 359, a radical proposal that sought to grant the state absolute control over private school hiring, curriculum, and disciplinary procedures by broadly defining private donations as "public assistance." While the bill is currently stalled in appropriations due to its significant fiscal impact, Jamison and Dan emphasize that this is only a temporary victory requiring continued vigilance.
The episode also recounts vital regulatory victories involving childcare ratios and fundraising overreach, underscoring the necessity of active political engagement.
Looking forward, Zacharias and Coppola explore the "golden opportunity" presented by the Education Freedom Tax Credit, a federal provision set for 2027 that will allow taxpayers to reclaim funds for Christian education. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the spiritual importance of maintaining a Biblical worldview in the classroom.
In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison welcome Hannah DeBruler back to the podcast. Hannah serves as the Higher Ed Policy Analyst for AACS, and she brings her expertise to unpack the implications of the "Do No Harm" test—a key accountability measure within the Working Families Tax Cut legislation.
The episode provides an in-depth analysis of how this federal mandate requires college programs to prove their graduates out-earn high school graduates to maintain eligibility for federal funding. The conversation specifically addresses the potential threat this "utilitarian" view poses to Christian higher education and service-oriented vocations like ministry and teaching, which prioritize spiritual and societal impact over material wealth. Furthermore, the hosts examine how this federal standard is already influencing state-level legislation in places like Indiana.
With implementation beginning in July 2026, this episode is an essential resource for educators and advocates looking to understand the shifting landscape of higher ed accountability and the upcoming opportunities for public comment to protect faith-based institutions.
This episode offers an exclusive, first-hand account of the fifth Religious Liberty Commission hearing held at the Museum of the Bible. Matt and Jamison dive into critical issues discussed, including the rise of anti-semitism on college campuses, the concerning trend of "debanking" faith-based organizations, and the protection of First Amendment rights.
The discussion centers on the "excitement" sparked by Commissioner Carrie Prejean Boller, whose combative questioning shifted the focus toward Zionism and theological disputes. The hosts provide insight into her subsequent removal by Chairman Dan Patrick, characterizing the event as a "hijacking" of the commission’s nonpartisan mission. Amidst these "fireworks," the episode highlights a powerful moment of spiritual clarity from Franklin Graham, who refocused the room on the central reality of the risen Christ. By examining these legislative and cultural tensions, AACS Today equips leaders with the discernment needed to navigate complex public policy while remaining anchored in their faith.
Jamison and Matt recap the annual LEAD conference, a cornerstone event where state leaders gather to coordinate a unified agenda for the conservative Christian school movement.
The episode provides deep dives into LEAD’s collaborative format, which pairs formal teaching sessions with hours of peer-to-peer discussion regarding state-level trends, accreditation, and legislative advocacy.
Discussion at LEAD centered on launching a "turnkey" initiative for states to use as their schools and families participate in the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC). The AACS scholarship granting organization, designed to expand student access while preserving school autonomy, was also introduced.
Furthermore, the episode captures the spiritual heart of the conference, featuring guest sessions by Matt Collier on the "theology of rest" to encourage leaders in their demanding vocations.
Join Matt and Jamison for an in-depth look at the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC), a historic federal tax provision set to launch on January 1, 2027. After over a decade of advocacy, this landmark initiative offers a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $1,700 per taxpayer for donations made to non-profit Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs).
In this episode, Jamison provides insights from recent White House meetings, detailing how the EFTC empowers families to escape underperforming public systems for private education that meets their academic and spiritual needs. The hosts clarify that this is strictly a tax provision, not a federal education program, a distinction vital for protecting the autonomy and religious liberty of AACS schools from government interference.
With 27 states already opted in, the potential impact is massive—up to $25 billion annually for educational choice. Learn how AACS has established its own SGO to serve member schools and discover how you can prepare to reclaim your tax dollars to benefit the next generation of students.
In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison sit down with Austin Erickson, Senior Strategic Manager at Turning Point USA. The discussion centers on the legacy of the late Charlie Kirk and the remarkable growth of Club America, TPUSA’s high school initiative.
Erickson shares how the organization has seen incredible growth following Kirk’s assassination, with chapters increasing from 1,200 to 3,000 as students respond with renewed engagement.
The conversation highlights Club America’s mission: creating student-led spaces for dialogue on the Constitution and conservative values to prevent radicalization. The episode also explores the importance of integrating a biblical lens into the political realm to help students navigate cultural trends. For educators and students interested in launching a free chapter, this episode provides a clear roadmap for utilizing TPUSA's leadership resources and programs.
Olivia joins Matt and Jamison for some breaking news: the Youth Legislative Training Conference is officially now the Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC). Inspired by a conversation with a member of Congress regarding the dignity of human reason, the new name better reflects the program's focus on intellectual and character growth.
Based in Washington, D.C., the YLDC equips high school students for civic engagement and biblical leadership through a week-long mock senate, congressional briefings, and historic tours. This transformative experience encourages students to view government as a ministry and prepare for future leadership roles.
The program is fully scholarship-based, with donors covering all costs except travel. Nominations for students graduating in 2026–2028 are due to state offices by March 30th. Visit aacs.org to learn more about this life-changing opportunity to develop the next generation of Christian leaders.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison delve into recent Supreme Court arguments regarding laws in Idaho and West Virginia. These cases center on whether states can require student athletes to compete according to their biological sex rather than gender identity. The discussion examines the legal nuances of Title IX and the 14th Amendment, highlighting the critical need for a clear legal definition of "sex" that aligns with Scripture.
Jamison shares observations from a rally outside the Court, noting a significant cultural shift and the participation of prominent advocates like Riley Gaines.
Grounded in the biblical perspective that humans are "different by design," the episode argues that bodies play sports, while identities do not. Listeners will gain insight into the "axiomatic truths" of biological reality and the potential implications for the future of fair competition in women's sports.
This episode explores the shifting dynamics of the 119th Congress, focusing on what we can expect as we enter 2026. Jamison and Matt discuss the ongoing effort to wind down the Department of Education and the legislative push for "Reconciliation 2.0" to enhance school choice through the federal tax credit scholarship program.
The conversation further addresses cultural concerns, including large-scale fraud within Minnesota's childcare block grant system and the Trump administration's aggressive deregulation agenda
Finally, the hosts provide insights into landmark Supreme Court cases, such as West Virginia v. B.P.J. regarding biological sex in sports, Trump v. Barbara on birthright citizenship, and Charles v. Salazar concerning First Amendment and religious liberty protections. Stay informed on how these legal and political battles shape the future of Christian education and national identity.
On this episode, Matt and Jamison discuss the emerging federal school choice program, which is structured as a tax bill under the Treasury Department—not the Department of Education—and is projected to be a $25 billion annual initiative funded by private donations to Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). The discussion centers on the crucial regulatory phase, where the Treasury Department is currently writing the program's rules and requesting public comments to determine participation criteria. The hosts also explore the political dynamics surrounding the federal program's requirement that governors must opt in annually, noting recent movements in Texas and Colorado. Finally, the efforts of the AACS office are detailed, including advocacy during the comment period and the establishment of the AACS Children's Scholarship Fund, anticipating the program’s effective date for receiving donations starting January 1, 2027.
Listeners are encouraged to leave comments about the program by clicking here.
On this episode, Jamison and Matt welcome Chloe Cole, an articulate 21-year-old woman passionately advocating against the practice of transitioning minors. Chloe shares her powerful, true story of undergoing medical gender transition between the ages of 12 and 16, which included puberty-suppressing drugs, high-dose testosterone, and a double mastectomy at age 15. She speaks with firsthand authority on the deeply traumatic effects of these "sex-denying procedures" and the consequences of medical professionals disregarding their oath to "do no harm."
Chloe shares the isolation and alienation experienced in public school settings, the challenge parents face when seeking expert advice that often pushed instant affirmation, and the importance of affirming God's design and restoring the sanctity of family. She offers vital counsel to parents, urging them to teach their children critical thinking to inoculate them against ideological deceptions prevalent online. Chloe concludes by discussing her legislative advocacy, including the Chloe Cole Act, a federal effort to allow those harmed as minors to seek legal justice by reforming medical malpractice statute of limitations. Her testimony highlights her journey of healing and redemption found through faith in Christ.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison discuss the significant next steps announced by Secretary Linda McMahon in the effort to close the Department of Education. Since permanent closure requires Congress, the department is moving programs through inter-agency agreements with several programs transferring to other agencies including the State Department and Department of Labor.
The hosts focus on the consequential move of elementary and secondary education to the Department of Labor, which raises concerns about balancing workforce preparation (like Career and Technical Education) with virtue development and knowledge acquisition. Programs statutorily required to remain at the DOE include the Office for Civil Rights (Title IX), Federal Student Aid, and Special Education. AACS schools are advised to anticipate changes regarding the administration of Title funding. The episode wraps up by celebrating Maureen Van Den Berg's 20-year milestone with AACS.
In this episode, Matt and Jamison welcome Texas State Senator Phil King—a respected Christian political leader representing constituents in Senate District 10—to discuss the major legislative battles shaping the state and the nation.
Senator King provides deep insight into the Ten Commandments bill, which mandates the posting of the commandments in Texas public schools, and the ongoing legal challenges at the Fifth Circuit.
The discussion pivots to the often-litigious and complex world of redistricting, including the effort to increase Republican congressional seats in Texas, and why Christians should be engaged in this political process
Finally, Senator King details the historic passing of Texas' school choice bill, the largest rollout of its kind in American history, explaining its goal to offer options, competition, and funding to families in poorly performing districts
This conversation underscores the "ministry of politics"—the duty of Christian men and women to be actively involved in government, an institution ordained by God for the good of society.
This episode of AACS Today dissects a public "dust up brewing" among conservative friends, viewed as a critical fight for the "soul of conservatism." The hosts analyze the debate over the quote "No enemies to my right" amidst current political realignments, discussing controversies involving key figures like Matt Walsh, Tucker Carlson, and the Heritage Foundation. Gain Christian perspective on this spiritual war and learn to discern truth by referencing the parables of the wheat and the tares and the sheep and the goats.
Trump versus Higher Education: Are colleges taking the bait? President Trump is using a high-stakes "carrot or the stick" approach to force reform. The stick? Civil rights investigations and taxing massive multi-billion-dollar endowments. The carrot? The Compact for Excellence in Higher Education. Signatories receive priority research grants for adopting merit-based admissions, freezing tuition costs, and protecting Title IX women's spaces from men. Only nine major institutions were offered this deal, and none have signed on as of yet. Critics claim Trump is politicizing federal funding. Don't miss AACS Today, Episode 103!
We analyze crucial Supreme Court challenges that could overturn restrictive state laws preventing professionally licensed counselors from offering therapeutic support that helps clients live peacefully with their biological sex. Hear the shocking reason a planned public rally related to these cases was abandoned—illustrating the dangerous threat of an "assassin’s veto" against conservative speech. Plus, we break down the high-stakes legal fight to protect women's sports by keeping them sex-specific. Protecting your family requires vigilance, and understanding these legal realities is crucial. Consider Christian education as a vital investment and defense against conflicting ideologies!
On this episode, Jamison and Matt celebrate President Trump’s effective diplomatic results in the Middle East while discussing the third Religious Liberty Commission hearing, noting a "remarkable shift" in the administration’s strong support for religious liberty, faith-based offices, and actively addressing bias against Christians. This hearing focused specifically on private and religious education, stressing the importance of learning "virtue" and "truth", while examining how non-discrimination laws concerning sexual orientation and gender identity threaten the essential autonomy of private schools. The episode also included a moving tribute to the late Charlie Kirk, recognizing his tremendous cultural influence and connection to Christian education, having been saved in a Christian school classroom.
On the 100th episode of AACS Today, Jamison and Matt discuss what the government shutdown means for AACS schools as well as for education in general.
On September 8, the Religious Liberty Commission held their second meeting, which was hosted at the Museum of the Bible. Our very own Jamison Coppola and Olivia Summers were in attendance. On this episode, Jamison and Olivia share what the meeting was all about and what's next for the Religious Liberty Commission.
Jamison and Matt reflect on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and what comes next. They also look back on the National Legislative Conference, and the good things that took place during the conference.
Diane Bales, who was named as a Herzog Teacher of the Year for 2025, joins Jamison and Matt to share how she brings her first grade classroom to life, and how she asks her students to do hard things. Diane also explains how her love for Christian education was formed at a young age as she watched her parents face truancy claims because they decided to send their children to a Christian school. Don't miss this interview with Diane!
Join Jamison and Matt as they provide a high-level view of the federal school choice program, which is contained inside the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill (OB3). Will the program be available in your state? How much is available through the program? How has AACS been involved in the process? Be sure to listen to find out!
Sara Bookout, Director of the Hope Allen Center for Exceptional Children in Hickory, NC, joined Jamison on the podcast to explain how Christian schools can serve families who have students with special needs with both excellence and accessibility. As Sara explained, if we attach the name of Christ to something (as we have done with our Christian schools), it ought be excellent, and since Christ died for all, the education we offer ought to be accessible for as many students as possible. Be sure to listen to catch Sara's passion for serving families who have students with special needs!
Jamison and Matt interview Hudson and Hayden about their experience serving as AACS interns in the Washington office during this past summer. Be sure to catch how they grew, and what they hope to take away from their eight-week experience. They were a blessing to our team, and we're grateful for their work in the D.C. office!
In this episode, Jamison is joined by Paul Smith, the founder and executive director of Citizen Impact, a ministry that bridges the gap between churches and public policy. Jamison and Paul discuss Peach State politics and how citizens can influence their government. You can check out more of Paul's work at Citizen Impact.
Join Olivia and Matt as they recount the blessings from the 2025 Youth Legislative Training Conference. Students from all over the country descended on Washington for a week of learning, fun, and growth. From the mock senate to the day on Capitol Hill to meeting with congressional representatives to touring the sights of the city, the students had an amazing week!
We especially want to thank our donors who helped make this week possible!
Join Olivia, Jamison, and Matt as they discuss the historical first meeting of President Trump's Religious Liberty Commission. Established by a May 1 Executive Order and chaired by Texas Lt. Gov Dan Patrick, the Commission, "shall produce a comprehensive report on the foundations of religious liberty in America, the impact of religious liberty on American society, current threats to domestic religious liberty, strategies to preserve and enhance religious liberty protections for future generations, and programs to increase awareness of and celebrate America’s peaceful religious pluralism."
AACS Government Relations Assistant, Olivia Summers, was privileged to attend this meeting, and in this episode she shares some of the biggest takeaways from the discussion.
Jessica Valente from Tabernacle Christian School in Hickory, North Carolina, was selected as one of the 2025 Teachers of the Year by the Herzog Foundation, and on this episode, she shares her heart for teaching students with special needs. Be sure to listen to catch her suggestions for how you can begin a program at your school!
Jamison and Matt interview AACS interns, Hudson and Hayden, on day 2 of their journey as summer interns for the AACS Washington office. Listen in to get to know them, and be sure to pray for them this summer!
Jamison and Matt discuss how the religious liberty language came to be reinstated in the school choice version of the Big Beautiful Bill Act (ECCA portion). They also break down a few of the potential problems with some of the provisions that remain in the bill. Finally, they break down how religious liberty precedents set by the Supreme Court undergird the need for the religious liberty language to remain in the Senate version of the bill.
*Be sure to listen to the program note at the end of the podcast as there is a very important update since the original recording.
In this episode, Jamison and Matt look at the importance of religious liberty in our country and why its worth fighting for when it comes to federal school choice legislation in the, "big beautiful bill."
In this episode, Jamison and Matt continue their discussion of the philosophy and principles of school choice. In Part 2 of "Back to the Basics," Jamison and Matt look at the different types of school choice programs around the country. From vouchers and ESAs to tax credit scholarships and tax credits, there are a number of programs in states around the country.
If you missed part 1, be sure to listen to it here!
In Part 1 of "Back to the Basics," Jamison and Matt take a journey that goes all the way back to the beginning of public education in the United States even before the country officially formed. The journey continues into the mid 1800s and early 1900s as cultural and philosophical trends as well as legislation and court decisions changed the trajectory of American education and set the stage for the modern day school choice movement.
Just last week, the Texas House of Representatives passed an education savings account (ESA) bill, and now, the bill is headed for Governor Abbott's desk. On this episode, Jamison interviews Matt about the specifics of the bill and what other state leaders can learn from the process in Texas. Is everything bigger in Texas? Be sure to listen to find out!
Are you known as someone who always chooses to do things "the hard way"? Join Jamison and Matt as they recap the AACS National Competition, which took place April 8-10 on the campus of Bob Jones University. More than 1,800 students from 187 schools and 34 states competed to become a national champion.
Hannah DeBruler, Higher Education Policy Analyst for AACS, joins the podcast to discuss the impact President Trump is having in the world of postsecondary education. In this episode Jamison, Hannah, and Matt break down what's happening with some of the federal funds that have been withheld from certain well-known universities. They also look at how the dismantling of the Department of Education could effect institutions of higher learning as well as the impact President Trump's DEI executive orders are having on colleges.
On March 20, President Trump signed an executive order to close the Department of Education and to return authority to the states. In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss the why, the what, and the push back from this executive action.
For anyone interested in seeing pictures of Stumpy, click here.
President Trump has been called an "energetic Executive" as he makes his way through the first one hundred days of his second term. In this episode, Jamison and Matt provide an update on the status of the Department of Education, rogue judges (and their rulings related to Trump's policies) and reconciliation.
Sports are an amazing tool to build leadership skills and work ethic. Over the last several years though, there has been an increasing number of men competing on women's sports teams and invading women's private spaces. On this episode, join Jamison as he interviews Maggie McKneely, a Legislative Strategist with Concerned Women for America, to discuss the latest on this important battle to protect women and girls.
In this episode, Jamison is joined by Chris Reed, Chief Risk Officer and General Counsel for the Nonprofits Insurance Alliance. With more than 27,000 members in 32 states, the NIA's goal is to provide nonprofits with access to a stable source of fair and equitably priced property and liability insurance. Currently, nonprofits can pool liability risk across state lines, but that ability does not yet exist for property insurance. The NIA is advocating for legislation that would bring a resolution to this problem. To learn more about NIA's legislative advocacy, click here.
While the title might seem peculiar at first, we know you've been hearing about the potential to dismantle the Department of Education. Join Jamison and Matt as they welcome back to the podcast AACS Policy Analyst, Maureen Van Den Berg, to discuss the fate of the Department of Education. Is it dead on arrival? Be sure to tune in to find out!
With the re-election of President Trump, there certainly is a new sheriff in Washington, D.C.! In this episode, Jamison and Matt review some of the executive orders signed by the President, and they discuss how he has certainly become an "energetic executive." The bureaucracy is reeling as Trump continues to move lightning fast!
The annual LEAD Conference was recently held in Peachtree City, GA, and in this episode, Jamison and Matt share some of the biggest takeaways from the leadership sessions and discussion.
Dr. Kelvin Cochran, former City of Atlanta Fire Chief, led two of the leadership sessions, and Alliance Defending Freedom's Senior Counsel, Greg Baylor, spoke in the final session. Be sure to listen in as Jamison and Matt provide encouragement from their time in Georgia.
Dr. Matthew Mehan, Associate Dean and Assistant Professor of Government in the Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College Washington, D.C. campus, joins Jamison to discuss why children matter in our society. Dr. Mehan hopes to turn the hearts and minds of men back to their children.
Dr. Mehan is the author of the report, The Higher Purpose of Children in American Society, which was published by The Heritage Foundation. He is also the author of two children's books, Mr. Mehan's Mildly Amusing Mythical Mammals and The Handsome Little Cygnet.
Dr. Jeff Walton, Executive Director of the AACS, joins Jamison and Matt for an in-depth look at school accreditation. In this episode, which is part 2 (be sure to listen to last week's podcast for part 1), Dr. Walton discusses current trends in accreditation as well as the value of AACS accreditation.
Dr. Jeff Walton, Executive Director the AACS, joins Jamison and Matt for 2 episodes dedicated to the topic of school accreditation.
In this episode, Dr. Walton defines accreditation and looks at why Christian schools should pursue accreditation. He also differentiates between a compliance model and a school improvement model of accreditation.
Happy New Year from AACS Today! As we move into the new year, the news cycle in Washington has been full of interesting stories. Will the Department of Education be abolished? Will the Panama Canal be returned to the United States? Will Canada and Greenland become states? While that last question might be a stretch, we do have a new Congress, and we're about to have a new President. In this episode of the podcast, join Jamsion and Matt as they discuss what to expect in Washington in 2025.
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School and ministry leaders often need to wear a variety of “hats.” The list can be lengthy due to limited staff and resources. Things like fundraising, admissions, facilities management, information technology, and so much more.
In this episode, Mrs. Coppola, an HR Executive and Consultant, joins Jamison and Matt to discuss the importance of Human Resources (HR) in ministries. HR helps to build the framework for the processes we use to recruit, hire, train, and care for our staff. Be sure to listen as we present tips and resources to help simplify HR so that we can be effective in this key area for our ministries.
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Jamison and Matt reflect on the God's Providence over the last 12 months, and they look forward to what can potentially be expected from a new Congress and new President. Don't miss the last episode of 2024! The next episode of the podcast will be released on January 6, 2025.
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Billboard Chris joins Jamison on the podcast to discuss the lunacy behind toady's gender ideology and how it's impacting the next generation. Chris is a brave advocate for the truth about gender ideology and kids, and he's traveling across the world (9 countries to date) to share the truth, one person at a time.
If you're on X, you may want to consider following Billboard Chris here.
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When it comes to fundraising, donor development, and advancement, church-based Christian schools often struggle to communicate the needs they have in their ministries. How do they build a culture of giving within the school family?
Denny Vauters, Strategist in the Advancement Division at Generis, joins Jamison and Matt to lay out a vision to help schools think beyond a candy sale or fun run to help fund the school's mission.
Denny can be reached at denny.vauters@generis.com.
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Happy Thanksgiving from the AACS Today Podcast Team! In this episode Matt reminds us of George Washington's first Thanksgiving Proclamation from 1789, and he contrasts Washington's words with a recent statement from the President of the Texas branch of the American Federation of Teachers (teacher's union).
Details about the Proclamation, including a transcript, can be found here.
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Jim Boyte, Founder of Active Defender, joins Jamison and Matt to provide some helpful tips on how Christian schools can be as prepared as possible to deal with the threats they face in today's culture.
Active Defender helps schools get the right information into the hands of everyone so that the best decisions can be made during a crisis.
To contact Jim directly, call 910.783.6300.
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As of the recording of this podcast episode, there were still several races where ballots were being counted. However, one thing was clear: Former President Donald Trump has been reelected to serve as the 47th President of the United States. In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss the election results and the implications for the work of AACS in Washington.
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Timothy Goeglein, Vice President of External and Government Relations for Focus on the Family, returns to the podcast to discuss his brand new book, Stumbling Toward Utopia. Listen in as Jamison and Tim discuss the decline of American culture and the hope for revival in our nation.
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Veteran pro-life advocate, Tom McClusky joins Jamison and Matt to explain how to effectively advocate with elected officials and their staff members. Tom has more than two decades of experience in our nation's capital as a grassroots advocate for life and religious freedom.
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Professor William Wagner, Founder and President of Salt and Light Global, joins Jamison and Matt to discuss the continuing battle over religious liberty not only in the United States, but also around the world. Be sure to listen as Professor Wagner encourages us to equip ourselves, be fiercely unafraid to stand for truth and to do so with love as Jesus would do.
Be sure to checkout the resource website mentioned by Professor Wagner at slgwitness.com.
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Will Estrada, Senior Counsel for the Home School Legal Defense Association, joins Jamison for a conversation about the importance of parental rights as it relates to the education of their children. Both HSLDA and AACS will continue to advocate for the God-given rights of parents as they relate to education and liberty.
To read a copy of the article that Will referenced in the podcast, click here.
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Rachel Burrow, Herzog Foundation Christian Teacher of the Year award recipient, joins Jamison to discuss how she incorporates Christ in her classroom. Rachel teaches 8th grade U.S. history at Bob Jones Academy and engages students in creative ways. Listen in to discover how Rachel learned she was an award recipient and her unique teaching journey.
School leaders from around the country recently gathered in Washington, D.C., for the AACS annual National Legislative Conference. Join Matt and Olivia as they provide a recap of the highlights from this exciting event. Also, be sure to mark you calendars for next year's NLC, which will be held September 8-10, 2025.
In the best teams, each member shares and advances the common vision. However, members that oppose the vision will hinder the team’s ability to carry out its mission.
In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss key religious employment cases and how those cases may influence the ability of Christian school leaders to choose employees within their biblically based beliefs and institutional guidelines.
Annie Hsiao, Founder and President of Capitol Hill Christian Academy, joins Matt and Jamison to discuss planting a Christian school in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol. You'll be encouraged by Annie's journey of faith as she shares the challenges (curveballs) and the blessings (chocolate cake) of starting a Christian school.
Maureen Van Den Berg, K-12 policy analyst for the AACS, joins Matt and Jamison to discuss the work on protecting parental freedom in child care regulations.
The Biden administration is using the regulatory process to chip away at parental freedom in the Child Care Development Fund. Tune in for a discussion about the work of the AACS staff to ensure parental choice is protected in these regulations.
Hannah Debruler, higher ed policy analyst for the AACS, joins Matt and Jamison to discuss the Supreme Court decision Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo.
The Loper Bright decision is a powerful tool that can be used to wrest power from the bureaucratic state, restore legislative supremacy, and bring judicial accountability to constitutional boundaries. Tune in for a discussion about the implications of this case for educators and how it enables citizens to push back against the administrative state.
Is the summer of 2024 over already? While the official end to summer is still a few weeks away, school is almost back in session!
With the unofficial end of summer upon us, the AACS interns are preparing to head back to college. In this episode, Karen and Ashlyn share their biggest takeaways from their AACS internship experience in Washington, D.C.
Cole Sandlin, Director of Advancement at Family Time Training, joins Jamison and Matt to discuss how his ministry seeks to equip parents to be the primary disciple-makers in their homes.
Many Christian school leaders sense that parents may feel inadequate and unprepared for the task of disciplining their children. In this episode, Cole offers practical ways for Christian schools to help parents accomplish this task without making it too complicated.
Cole can be reached at cole@famtime.com.
Jamison, Matt, and Olivia provide updates about the 30th annual YLTC in Washington, D.C. The week included a fabulous mock senate led by renowned instructor and coach Mrs. Gail Nicholas, a day on Capitol Hill, presentations from conservative leaders, and a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.
High school students from across the country received scholarships to participate in the program. For more information about the program, click here or email osummers@aacs.org.
AACS Summer Interns, Karen Rueda and Ashlyn Moritz join Jamison and Matt to introduce themselves to the AACS Today audience. Both ladies grew up in Christian school and are currently attending a Christian college. Be sure to listen to catch what they identify as the defining historical moments from their lives. Can you guess what events Jamison and Matt chose?
Do private schools and specifically, religious private schools, produce students that are more civically engaged in their communities? A recent study seems to indicate that this is indeed the case.
Alison Johnson, former AACS intern and current Ph.D. student at the University of Arkansas, joins Jamison and Matt to discuss a recently published meta-analysis, The Public Purpose of Private Education: a Civic Outcomes Meta-Analysis.
Do Christian schools have the secret sauce for civic engagement? To find out, be sure to listen!
The bureaucracy is often half-jokingly referred to as the 4th branch of government, and in this episode, Jamison and Matt look at the bureaucratic influence on the Child Care Development Block Grants (commonly referred to as CCDBG). They also discuss the antisemitism bill that is being considered by the Senate and the free speech concerns related to this legislation. Their discussion finishes with a brief look at a new book written by Dr. Corey A. DeAngelis, The Parent Revolution.
Unrest has been a common theme on college campuses across the United States and around the world. In this episode AACS Higher Ed Policy Analyst, Hannah DeBruler, returns to the podcast to delve into the discussion of what's really behind the protests that we are all witnessing.
In this episode, Jamison interviews Tim Goeglein, former special assistant to President George W. Bush and current Vice President of External and Government Relations for Focus on the Family. Tim is the author of four books, including the recently released Toward a More Perfect Union. Jamison and Tim discuss how having a proper view of history is an essential element to reforming American society.
Jamison and Matt provide an update regarding the work of AACS Regional Legislative Directors as they recently spent a couple days on Capitol Hill. The hosts also share details about an important court case, which has big implications for churches and Christian schools.
Rep. Kyle Hilbert, who represents Oklahoma's 29th district in the state house, has been elected as the speaker-designate for the upcoming legislative session. At 29 years old, Rep. Hilbert would be the youngest Speaker in the history of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and only the second speaker under age 30 in any state since 1873.
In this intriguing conversation with Rep. Hilbert, Jamison and Matt learn more about Oklahoma's new school choice program as well as Rep. Hilbert's actions to keep appropriate materials in Oklahoma school libraries.
The AACS National Competition was held April 12-14 in Greenville, SC. In this episode, Jamison and Matt recap the week plus they discuss why competition is important and how to help our students think biblically about competition. There is also rigorous debate about the best cheese curds!
To view the list of winners from this year's competition, be sure to visit this link.
Does an organization's status as tax exempt make it a recipient of Federal Financial Aid? An affirmative answer to this question has big implications for Christian schools and ministries. In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss a recent court victory on this issue as well as some other cases making their way through the courts. They also share a proposed piece of legislation that could bring much-needed clarity to this issue.
In part 2 of their discussion, Jamison and Matt tackle how the negative use of the Christian Nationalist label shows up in culture against Christians who are vocal about their faith. They close the discussion by answering whether or not Christians should embrace the term.
In part 1 of their discussion on Christian Nationalism, Jamison and Matt seek to provide a definition of the term to help listeners understand what an individual might mean when they use the term, "Christian Nationalism." Christians who are vocal about applying their beliefs to all aspects of life should be prepared to be called a Christian Nationalist.
For a Christian school to thrive, there is no relationship more important than between the pastor and school administrator. In this episode, listeners will glean relational nuggets from Pastor Redlin's three decades of ministry experience. For nine years, co-host, Jamison Coppola and Pastor Redlin served together at a church in Colorado, and this conversation reflects back on their time together and sheds light on how pastors and school administrators can be effective together as they seek to serve the Lord in Christian school ministry.
The AACS Youth Legislative Training Conference (YLTC) is just around the corner. In this episode, YLTC alumnus, Peter Holland, joins Jamison and Matt to talk about the impact the program had on him and how it has helped shape his career in Washington, D.C.
The application deadline for this summer's program is March 25, so be sure to get applications to your state office today!
Click here for more information about YLTC!
As a representative for Ohio's 88th District, Gary Click has been a fierce advocate for religious liberty and protecting children. In this episode, Rep. Click provides insight into the passage of a recent constitutional amendment in Ohio. Rep. Click also shares some important updates on what's happening in the battle for school choice in his state.
As a representative for Ohio's 88th District, Gary Click has been a fierce advocate for religious liberty and protecting children. In this episode, Rep. Click provides insight into the passage of the SAFE (Save Adolescents from Experimentation) Act in Ohio. Rep. Click also shares some of the important background information that led to the bill's creation as well as what the bill prohibits.
While border policy is not an area of major focus for the Washington office, much of the energy in the Capitol has been focused on the border bill that has been recently presented. Jamison provides some perspective on the bill to help us better understand the larger implications of this proposed legislative compromise.
By a unanimous vote of the Board of Directors and Board of State Representatives, Dr. Richard Callahan has been elected to serve as the next President of the AACS. Dr. Callahan serves as the Senior Pastor of the Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Archdale, North Carolina, and he has been actively involved in Christian education for more than four decades through his leadership of Mount Calvary Christian School and his involvement with the North Carolina Christian School Association.
On this episode of the podcast, Jamison and Matt interview Dr. Callahan so that AACS members can get to know their new President.
Love is in the air, and thankfully, the AACS K-12 Policy Analyst loves her work on behalf of our members. Tune in to hear about how Maureen Van Den Berg keeps tabs on what's happening with the bureaucracy as they seek to write rules that impact schools.
In this episode, get to know Hannah DeBruler, Policy Analyst for Higher Education for the AACS. Jamison, Matt and Hannah discuss why higher education has become the "tip of the policy spear" for issues related to education.
As Americans, we love our choices. Have you visited the ice cream aisle lately? In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss school choice and specifically what is happening with school choice in the state of Texas.
In this episode, you'll get to know Olivia Summers, who joined joined the AACS Washington office as the Government Relations Assistant in the summer of 2023. Olivia has many responsibilities including helping to make the Youth Legislative Training Conference a success.
The post-Christmas political drama on Capitol Hill is in full swing. Jamison and Matt discuss the the latest on spending talks, possible impeachment hearings, foreign aid, the possibility of a tax bill in the coming year, and even a Hunter Biden sighting at a recent hearing in the House. This episode will get you up-to-speed on the latest from D.C.!
Jamison and Matt break down the top 3 issues Congress will be wrestling with in the new year. Will Congress return to regular order, or will it be business as usual in the D.C.?
Has it really been 2 years since our last podcast? We've missed connecting with you via the podcast, so we're bringing it back to you on a more regular basis. Join Jamison and Matt as they reintroduce the podcast and explain the 4 areas where the Washington office advocates on behalf of our members.
In this episode, the AACS Executive Director, Government Relations Director, and legal counsel join Matt to discuss Christian school responses to mask mandates and other requirements from health departments.
Lions, and tigers, and EANS, oh my! There's an alphabet soup of acronyms for different COVID-19 funding programs available to private schools. In this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss the primary differences between EANS 1 and EANS 2. "EANS" stands for Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools, and these programs are getting a lot of attention in the education world right now. After listening to this episode, you'll have a better understanding of the difference between the two programs.
During the show, Jamison referenced the Frequently Asked Questions (updated March 19, 2021) document about the EANS 1 program.
What's your plan to address the COVID gap at your school? Undoubtedly, many students transferring to your school experienced learning loss due to the conditions surrounding the pandemic. Do you have a plan to address this challenge as you prepare for the 2021–2022 school year?
Join host Matt Ticzkus, Dr. Jeff Walton, AACS Executive Director, and Bryan Wilson, Administrator at Harford Christian School, as they discuss what the data is telling us about learning loss and how Harford Christian is proactively meeting the needs of incoming students through their COVID Gap Remediation program.
Resources from the podcast:
- COVID Gap Remediation Considerations document
- COVID Gap Remediation example brochure
- First Grade Readiness example test from Harford Christian (please do not submit this form)
- Tutorial from Jotform on turning your form into a quiz or test
- TestPoint Placement Testing
Points of interest about Jotform:
- Integrates with Google Drive so you get all responses and attachments immediately upon submission.
- Can set Jotform to email answers immediately.
- Includes many other types of questions using built-in widgets.
Religious liberty is undoubtedly under attack in our nation. Sherri Huston from the Alliance Defending Freedom joins Matt and Jamison to discuss ADF's Ministry Alliance partnership with AACS. The Ministry Alliance provides schools with access to attorneys and legal resources as well as proactive measures like document review. ADF will be mailing out 4 legal guides to all AACS schools the week of March 1, 2021, and the guides will provide broad guidance on health insurance, admissions, athletics, and employment. Please visit https://www.adfministryalliance.org/partners/american-association-of-christian-schools for more information about the ADF Ministry Alliance partnership. Please reach out directly to Sherri, shuston@adflegal.org for questions about the program.
On this episode, Jamison and Matt discuss the latest piece of Coronavirus legislation and the impact it has on Christian schools. The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSA) has three important provisions that Christian schools must know about: EANS, GEER, and PPP. For a more in-depth treatment of these provisions, be sure to review the white paper prepared by our legislative team.
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt to discuss what happened with the CARES Act equitable services funds (court cases and confusion). Jamison and Matt also reflect on the impact that new Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett will have on the Supreme Court. Finally, Jamison shares some "inside baseball" insight as it relates to THE 2020 presidential election.
After recording this episode, the U.S. Department of Education has made grant funds available for COVID-related expenses under the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) program. Public and private schools can apply for this grant, and it is administered through the states. Recently, it has come to our attention that some states require applicant schools to agree to certain terms and conditions that may negatively impact your school’s ability to operate according to its sincerely-held religious beliefs. We encourage you to reach out to our office if you you are considering submitting a grant application.
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt to discuss how schools should think through local and state regulations that impact a school's ability to offer their students in-person instruction.
Some topics discussed include
- jurisdictional authority
- for the purpose of reopening discussions, comparing private schools to child-care centers instead of public schools
- requests to submit re-opening plans to local/state authorities
- how to think through a mandate to not reopen
Matt is joined by Dr. Mark Zockoll who shares findings from his survey of 140 Christian school teachers from across the United States and Guam. Dr. Zockoll shares how teachers grew stronger in communication, technology, and assessment as well as personal and spiritual growth.
Resources mentioned on the show
- Article by Dr. Zockoll (Nearly 70 different apps and pieces of software used by teachers are listed including some examples of how they used the tools.)
- Feedback about future episodes can be sent to info@aacs.org.
Have you considered what it will look like for your students and teachers to return to campus in the fall? Have you considered communicating this plan to your constituents in writing? In this episode of AACS Today, we dive into the Re-entry Plan from Victory Baptist Academy in Weatherford, TX.
Resources mentioned on the show
- email podcast feedback to info@aacs.org
- Sample Christian Academy Re-entry Plan (Word, editable)
- Sample Christian Academy Re-entry Plan (PDF)
It seems that every day brings new rules and guidelines for the CARES Act. On this episode of AACS Today, Jamison and Matt discuss some encouraging updates to the Paycheck Protection Program, including the safe harbor guidance as it relates to the good faith certification required on the PPP application.
Matt and Jamison also discuss a letter from the school choice community that was sent to Congressional leaders imploring them to remember private schools and equitable services as they develop plans for future funding.
Finally, Jamison shares an update on some key pieces of religious liberty guidance coming from the Department of Labor.
When it comes to the plan for your team's professional development this summer, what questions are you asking? On top of the questions we usually ask about PD and how we can improve our craft, with all the COVID craziness surrounding the last quarter of this school year, you might be tempted to forego any plans that you had for professional development for your team this summer. But is that a good idea?
On this episode of AACS Today, our panel of educators pulls back the curtain on the workshops that they are leading this summer. Also, AACS Executive Director, Dr. Jeff Walton, challenges us to ask the right questions about PD. Our panel includes Bryan Osborne from Answers In Genesis, Dana Davis from Maranatha Baptist University, and Heidi Braughler from Maranatha Baptist Academy.
During a typical school year, the spring is filled with special end-of-year traditions and capstone events for the graduating class including banquets, trips and of course, graduation. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic many of these events have been postponed, tweaked, or even canceled.
On this episode, four educators from four schools from across the country share how their schools are working hard to make the end of the year a special time for the class of 2020. Our panelists share how they are honoring their graduates, how they have tweaked their special events to make them memorable, and they pull back the curtain to share their plans for their school's upcoming graduation ceremony.
Our Panelists
- Pastor Dave Nichols, Land O' Lakes Christian Academy, FL
- Mr. Andrew Fry, Colonial Hills Christian School, IN
- Mr. Jeff Smith, Trinity Christian Academy, AL
- Mr. James Mendoza, Macedonian Christian Academy, TX
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, and AACS Legislative Assistant, Hannah DeBruler, join Matt to provide our listeners with additional details about the CARES Act, the AACS Youth Legislative Training Conference, and a look at what's coming next politically in Washington, D.C.
Resources mentioned on the podcast
- AACS podcast page
- Small Business Administration Covid-19 resources
- AACS Legislative and Legal Information
Christian school leaders must begin planning NOW for possible changes they may need to make as they open their doors this fall. In part 2 of Planning for Reopening in the Fall of 2020, Dr. Jeff Walton, AACS Executive Director, and Ed Francis, AACS Education Director, join Matt to provide perspective on questions raised in "An Open Letter to Independent School Leaders" from Kennesaw State University and "Reopening 2020" from Dr. Mark Beadle.
Resources mentioned on the podcast
- Kennesaw State Letter
- Dr. Mark Beadle Letter
- Past AACS webinars with Dr. David Warren
Christian school leaders must begin planning NOW for possible changes they may need to make as they open their doors this fall. In part 1 of Planning for Reopening in the Fall of 2020, Dr. Jeff Walton, AACS Executive Director, and Ed Francis, AACS Education Director, join Matt to provide perspective on questions raised in "An Open Letter to Independent School Leaders" from Kennesaw State University and "Reopening 2020" from Dr. Mark Beadle.
Resources mentioned on the podcast
- Kennesaw State Letter
- Dr. Mark Beadle Letter
- "Planning for Quality" from Evergreen Education
- Past AACS webinars with Dr. David Warren
Middle school, high school and even upper elementary students seem to have an easier time adapting to learning online during the Coronavirus pandemic. But, how can our teachers be most effective in delivering content online to our lower elementary students? In this episode, Matt interviews an experienced panel of educators who provide tips and ideas for teachers who have the challenging task of educating students in kindergarten through third grade via distance learning. Be sure not to miss the fun idea near the beginning of the podcast (it includes ice cream)!
Scott Barron, Founder and Chief Reinvention Officer at School Growth, joins Matt to help schools begin to think through their planning for the next few months. Scott identifies 3 key questions school leaders must ask in order to develop an effective 90-day plan. School leaders who are interested in diving deeper into this process are welcome to access a free one-hour webinar here. School Growth is also offering AACS schools a discounted rate of $149 on a three-hour workshop where school leaders will be able to develop their 90-day plan (live class or recording available). The code for the discounted rate is revealed near the end of the podcast.
The link mentioned in the podcast is https://www.schoolgrowth.com/90-days.
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt to recap the piece of legislation that most Christian schools are wrestling with: the Cares Act. Jamison also provides deeper insight into the work that his team is doing in Washington.
Click here to read the article written by Jamison and Hannah that was recently published in the Daily Signal.
If you're looking for some practical tips and ideas on what's working for other schools right now, don't miss this episode! Matt is joined by 3 educational leaders, Dr. Esther Baker, Assistant Administrator at Bob Jones Academy (Greenville, SC); Dr. Sam Dalton, Administrator at Temple Baptist School (Herndon, VA); and Dr. Dan Brokke, Administrator at Grace Christian School (Huntington, WV) and Executive Director of the West Virginia Christian Education Association. Together, the panel discusses grading and appropriate workload, strengthening relationships with parents and students, helping teachers care for themselves and their families, surveying families and responding to the data, and much more!
Resource from the show:
- Survey (with results) used by Grace Christian School
Jamison Coppola, AACS Legislative Director, joins Matt to provide us with a deeper look at the CARES Act including why (if you are participating) you should use 100% of the funds for payroll. Jamison also shares some details about two other relief funds from the CARES Act that have been designated for schools. Listeners will also learn what Jamison and his team are hearing in D.C. about the upcoming election.
Resource mentioned on the show:
- Contact us and let us know if you've applied for the Paycheck Protection Program and what your experience has been. Reach us at info@aacs.org.
Maureen Van Den Berg and Matt discuss 7 tips for parents who now find themselves balancing working from home along with tracking the progress of their students through their daily school lessons and work. While there are some obvious challenges, Maureen provides practical insight on how parents can keep their sanity and actually enjoy this season. Maureen serves in the AACS Legislative Office as a policy analyst.
Resources mentioned during the podcast:
- video of frustrated mom;
- resource page for parents
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt to help school leaders think through the religious liberty implications of participating in the program. Some of the topics discussed include:
- Since specific religious liberty language was not in the bill, what can we expect from the regulations that have already been released as well as the ones that are yet to be released?
- What are some similarities between eminent domain and a ministry's involvement in this program?
- What if a ministry participates in the program, but the political winds change through an election, court decision, or new legislation?
How will your school be impacted by the CARES Act? AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt on the podcast to share 4 initial takeaways from the CARES Act, which President Trump signed into law on March 27, 2020. While regulations are still being written for the law (at the time of publishing), these initial considerations should help schools decide on their next steps relating to the provisions of the law.
Christian schools across the country have been wrestling with how to serve pre-K students and their families effectively during the Coronavirus outbreak.
In episode #3, our panel deals with the following questions:
1. Should our pre-K program remain open or should we close? What are programs doing around the country?
2. If we close our pre-K program, what do we do about tuition?
3. What are some practical suggestions for serving pre-K students and families during this time?
4. How are our pre-K employees impacted by new legislation?
Episode 3 panelists include:
Edward Earwood, Executive Director of the South Carolina Association of Christian Schools,
Dr. Cathy Dotson, Preschool & Elementary Principal at Wilmington Christian Academy, Steve Cummings, Head of School at Athens Christian School and AACS legal counsel,
Dr. Jeff Walton, Executive Director of the AACS
Resource:
Here is a sample letter used by Dr. Dotson's school for communicating with pre-K families. Thank you Dr. Dotson for sharing this with us!
AACS Legislative Director, Jamison Coppola, joins Matt Ticzkus to discuss how the three Coronavirus relief bills will impact Christian schools. Before providing an overview of the bills themselves, Jamison provides insight into the work that his team is doing on behalf of Christian schools in Washington, D.C.
Resources mentioned in the show:
White paper on paid leave for COVID-19. (Families First Coronavirus Response Act)
AACS COVID-19 resource page.
One of the top questions we are currently receiving in our office is, "should we continue to collect tuition during a Coronavirus school closure?" AACS Executive Director, Dr. Jeff Walton and AACS Regional Director, Matt Ticzkus answer this questions in episode 1 of AACS Today.
The short answer is, "yes," but, as AACS Executive Director Jeff Walton points out, you must continue to educate students and provide value to families during the closure. Dr. Walton and Matt provide practical insights on how to do that while the school building is closed.
One resource mentioned during the episode was the COVID-19 resource page on the AACS website, which can be accessed at https://www.aacs.org/covid-19/.