AACS Today

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.

AACS Today is a education podcast hosted by AACS, with 138 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

AACS hosts AACS Today, a education show with 138 episodes published.

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  Episode #139

  NLC 2026 Recap

  Sep 28, 202628 min

  In this episode of AACS Today , Matt and Jamison Coppola recap the highlights and impact of the American Association of Christian Schools’ National Legislative Conference (NLC) in Washington, D.C.. The hosts detail how school leaders gathered to advocate for key policy priorities, including Educational Freedom Tax Credit Scholarships , protecting tax exemptions for religious organizations , and supporting the Chloe Cole Act . Beyond legislative strategy, the episode highlights member briefings, spiritual encouragement from speaker Dean Miller, and the presentation of the American Freedom Award to retiring Congressman Barry Loudermilk following his address at the closing banquet. They reflect on the vital role of grassroots advocacy, urging Christian educators to embrace self-government by building active relationships with their elected representatives. Whether discussing Capitol Hill advocacy or lighthearted moments on the pickleball court, this conversation underscores how educators can boldly influence public policy while staying anchored in their faith. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Christian education and policy intersect in our nation's capital.

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  Episode #138

  AACS Remembers 9/11/01

  Sep 14, 202631 min

  In this episode of AACS Today , Matt and Jamison reflect on the 25th anniversary of September 11 and its enduring significance for American society and Christian education. They share personal memories from that historic day while recalling the extraordinary role of AACS leaders in Washington, D.C. , who conducted impromptu prayer meetings with White House administration staff during the immediate aftermath of the attacks. The hosts also explore lesser-known historical context surrounding aviation security, including General Benjamin Davis’s 1974 warning about potential airborne mass-casualty events. Addressing a growing generational divide among students born after 9/11, the discussion emphasizes the essential responsibility Christian educators hold in instilling heroism, self-sacrifice, and moral clarity . Highlighting recent sentiments shared by the Department of Education, this episode underscores why schools must ensure rising generations honor the victims, remember first responders, and understand this pivotal watershed moment. Tune in to explore how Christian schools can preserve these vital historical lessons to cultivate gratitude, courage, and hope for the future .

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  Episode #137

  Katy Faust: The Global Fight for Children’s Rights

  Sep 7, 202640 min

  In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison sit down with Katy Faust , the founder and president of the global children's rights movement Them Before Us . Faust discusses her organization's primary mission: defending children's natural rights to their biological mother and father. She challenges modern assumptions about family structures, explaining why marriage, IVF, surrogacy, and adoption must be viewed through a child-centric, justice-focused lens rather than adult desires. Faust outlines her global efforts to change hearts and laws, including the "Greater Than" campaign aimed at overturning Obergefell . She also shares practical, countercultural advice for Christian parents and educators navigating hostile cultural environments. Faust details her unique approach to worldview preparation, emphasizing how parents can proactively equip children—especially middle schoolers—to recognize secular distortions and stand firm in their faith. Tune in to explore how natural law, children's lived experiences, and timeless biblical truths can protect the next generation in an increasingly complex world.

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  Episode #135

  From the Rose Garden to the Helipad: AACS Goes to the White House

  Aug 31, 202636 min

  In this episode, Matt and Jamison discuss a recent visit to a White House back-to-school event. Dr. Coppola, who attended the Rose Garden ceremony, highlights President Trump’s focus on key education policies, centering on three main themes: the primary role of parents in education, expanding school choice through the proposed Education Freedom Tax Credit, and the eventual dismantling of the federal Department of Education. The conversation blends serious policy analysis with lighthearted moments, including a whimsical recount of Trump leading attendees on an unscheduled tour of a new White House helipad under construction. Ultimately, the hosts underscore how the AACS invitation to such high-profile events reflects the organization's outsized influence in Washington, DC, and its ongoing mission to advocate for parental rights and biblically-based education. This episode serves as an encouraging reminder of the tangible fruit of Christian school advocacy.

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  Episode #134

  Who's Back to School?

  Aug 24, 202636 min

  In this episode of AACS Today , Matt and Jamison explore the unique, often underappreciated challenges facing Christian school leaders during the demanding back-to-school season. Transitioning from nostalgic reflections on childhood school supply shopping, the co-hosts dive into the high-stress realities of modern school administration, addressing critical hurdles like last-minute staffing shortages, tight budgets, and unexpected building maintenance costs. Drawing from their own leadership experiences, the hosts offer a blend of practical strategies and spiritual encouragement. They emphasize the vital importance of "sharpening the saw" through physical activity, continuous personal development, and guilt-free rest. The discussion also covers essential principles for building organizational trust , navigating difficult personalities, and establishing a healthy work-life "counterbalance" . Grounded in biblical wisdom from James and Hebrews, this episode serves as a refreshing, supportive guide designed to sustain educators as they embark on a new school year.

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