AACS Today

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.