What if economics class could teach students how to live with purpose—not just how markets work? In this episode of American Classroom, Kerry Montano from the University of Arizona introduces a groundbreaking dual enrollment course that’s transforming how high school students engage with economics. Co-authored by thinkers like Dr. David Schmidtz, Commercial Society weaves together ethics, entrepreneurship, and real-world application into one powerful curriculum.

Kerry shares the story behind the program’s creation, why it resonates with students—especially at Heritage Academy—and how it’s sparking deeper thinking about business, purpose, and personal growth. If you’re an educator seeking richer curriculum or a parent looking for something truly meaningful for your student, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Show Notes:

Freedom Center at University of Arizona: https://freedomcenter.arizona.edu

Heritage Academy information and tours: https://heritageacademyaz.com

Contact Kerry Montano: [email protected]

What does it really mean to be a gifted learner—and how can schools support students who think differently? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Dr. Janelle Emory, founder of the Gifted and Talented program at Heritage Academy Gateway, to challenge common misconceptions about gifted education. Far from being just for "high achievers," Dr. Emory explains how giftedness is a form of neurodiversity—often misunderstood, frequently overlooked, and always unique.

Through stories from the classroom and insights on everything from growth mindset to passion-driven learning, you'll discover how the right environment helps gifted students not only learn how they think—but thrive because of it. Whether you're a parent, educator, or school leader, this episode will inspire you to see giftedness in a whole new light.

Show Notes:

If you want to learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visit

AmericanClassroom.Show.

To learn more about or take a tour of the great schools mentioned in this episode, visit Heritage Academy or Paul Revere Academy.

Dr. Emory’s LinkedIn - Janelle Emory

This episode is sponsored by The Art of Josh Nelson. Josh provides wholesome, positively inspiring wall art for homes, as well as custom designs for everything from family art to board games. You can see posters available to purchase by visiting theartofjoshnelson.com or check out his Instagram @joshnelsonart

In Part 2, Dr. Vernon Smith returns to share practical insights on the future of education—from using AI responsibly to transforming foster youth outcomes through career and technical education.

The conversation ranges from the economic value of dual enrollment to the ethics of assessment in an AI-enhanced classroom. You’ll also hear powerful stories of lives changed when schools rethink tradition and prioritize access, flexibility, and mission over inertia.

Whether you're a policymaker, educator, or parent, this episode offers a compelling vision for how American education can evolve with intention, impact, and heart.

How do we make college more accessible, relevant, and future-ready—without sacrificing quality? In Part 1 of this two-part series, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Dr. Vernon Smith, a trailblazer in higher education innovation, to explore the origins and growth of dual enrollment, the value of early college credit, and the bold decisions that transformed Rio Salado College into a national model for access and impact.

From AI-driven language learning to pioneering distance education in the 1990s, Dr. Smith shares a sweeping look at his journey through academia—and why true innovation always begins with mission-driven thinking and courageous partnerships.

Show Notes:

1. Podcast on Dual Enrollment with Dr. EJ Anderson: "The Best Kept Secret in High Schools"

2. To learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visit AmericanClassroom.Show.

3. To learn more about or take a tour of the great schools mentioned in this episode, visit Heritage Academy or Paul Revere Academy.

What if students didn’t just do the work—but truly wanted to learn? In this powerful episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with educator and author Dave Stuart Jr. to unpack his book The Will to Learn and explore what it really means to cultivate student motivation. Joined by Heritage Academy principal Kathleen Lopez, they dive into practical, research-backed strategies for helping students find intrinsic value in learning—and why external rewards like grades aren’t enough.

From “moments of genuine connection” to the “rainbow of why,” Dave shares methods that help both teachers and parents create classrooms (and homes) where students feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow. Whether you’re a veteran educator, a school leader, or a parent trying to inspire a reluctant learner, this episode will leave you rethinking motivation—and believing that every student can grow a love for learning.

Show Notes:

If you want to learn more about the American Classroom podcast, please visit AmericanClassroom.Show.

Dave Stuart Jr.'s “Will to Learn” can be found here at Amazon or on Barnes and Noble.

Dave’s website - davestuartjr.co

How do you create a school culture where students thrive, teachers stay, and respect runs deep? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland welcome back Kim Ellsworth, Director of Education for Heritage Academy, to explore the transformative power of civility in schools. Drawing on her experience founding two campuses, Kim shares real-world strategies for establishing a calm, respectful learning environment—and why culture must come before test scores.

From building virtuous cycles through discipline and language, to navigating the challenges of social media and student behavior, this conversation offers practical insights for educators, administrators, and parents alike. Learn how electives, staff modeling, and consistent standards shape not only campuses, but communities—and why the small things, like “please” and “thank you,” are the big things.

If you care about the future of education, this episode is a masterclass in the power of culture done right.

What happens when Americans no longer know the rules of their own democracy? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland tackle the growing crisis in civic literacy. Drawing from recent national studies, they reveal just how many Americans—especially young adults—struggle to answer basic questions about how their government works.

Using the powerful analogy of American democracy as a game, they argue that if citizens don’t understand the rules—found in documents like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence—they can’t fully participate, let alone protect the freedoms they enjoy.

They also explore how shifting educational priorities, the rise of global citizenship, and the flood of misinformation on social media have contributed to this decline. Most importantly, they offer practical advice for parents, educators, and community members committed to raising informed, engaged citizens.

If you believe freedom depends on understanding how it works, this episode is essential listening.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

US Chamber of Commerce Civic Literacy Study US Chamber of Commerce Civic Literacy Test Harvard Business Review Article on Civics and Business Thomas Jefferson Quote ACTA Study

What if science class could be the launchpad for a lifetime of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking? In this inspiring episode, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Jeff Burrell, a master teacher with over 30 years of experience, to explore the true power of science education. From hands-on robotics to peanut butter sandwich logic tests, Jeff shares how he helps students think deeply, fail forward, and discover truth—not just facts.

Hear how his students have gone on to influence everything from Mars exploration to sandwich design, and learn why Jeff believes science belongs at the heart of every subject. Whether you're a teacher, parent, or lifelong learner, you'll come away rethinking what it really means to teach—and learn—science.

How is music education evolving—and why does it still matter? Jason Barney returns to American Classroom to explore the enduring value of music education in today’s rapidly changing world. From the classroom to the recording studio, he shares unique insights into how technology and AI are reshaping music and what that means for students and educators alike.

Learn why preserving music programs is essential, how parents can nurture a love for music at home, and why the value of music goes far beyond academics. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or lifelong music lover, this episode offers fresh perspective on supporting the arts in education.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Gilbert Advocates for Music Education Judge Janice Brown's Article The Fortress Stone Sebelius Spitfire Circle Country Zia Records

What if music education is the key to unlocking more than just talent—but deeper thinking, empathy, and cultural understanding? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland welcome Jason Barney—musician, composer, and passionate music advocate—to explore the profound impact of music in education. From enhancing cognitive development to building social connection and historical awareness, they discuss why music isn’t just an elective—it’s essential.

Together, they reflect on how music fosters creativity, emotional intelligence, and a sense of shared humanity, and why its advocates are critical to keeping the arts alive in schools and communities.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Wynton Marsalis on Education
• How Playing an Instrument Benefits Your Brain
• Dr. Anita Collins