Classical School of Wichita

In the latest episode of the podcast, Dr. Dernlan sits down with fourth-grade teacher Jordan Dennis to talk about the path that led him to classical Christian education and what he loves about teaching fourth grade. Jordan shares about the joy of helping students make connections across subjects and the beauty of weaving history and the Bible throughout the curriculum. Tune in to hear why he believes an integrated approach to education helps students see the bigger picture and grow in wisdom and understanding.

In the latest episode of the podcast, Dr. Dernlan sits down with second-grade teacher Stephanie Neisler to talk about her Wichita roots, her theater and athletics experiences, and how they eventually led her to coaching and teaching. Stephanie shares stories from her years in the classroom, what she has learned along the way, and what she loves most about teaching at CSW.

In this week’s podcast, Dr. Tim Dernlan sits down with our new Activities Director, Tyler Busenitz, to get to know the newest member of the CSW leadership team. Mr. Busenitz brings a wealth of experience in school activities, athletics, and fine arts, along with a lifelong connection to Christian education.

Joining the CSW community this year, Tyler shares a little about his background, his passion for helping students thrive beyond the classroom, and his vision for athletics and fine arts at Classical School of Wichita. Get to know the man behind the new role and hear what he is looking forward to as he begins this new chapter at CSW!

This week, Dr. Dernlan sits down with Benjamin Schmidt to discuss the path that led him to teaching Integrated Humanities. Ben reflects on growing up in a missionary family, studying history and communications in college, and later pursuing postgraduate studies focused on church history and theology. Along the way, he discovered a love for teaching and the unique role the humanities play in helping students think deeply about faith, culture, history, and what it means to live well. Together, they explore vocation, education, and the enduring value of the humanities classroom.

What happens when a chemist feels called to ministry and then to education? In this episode, Dr. Dernlan talks with Michael Bucy about his journey from the lab to seminary to the halls of CSW. Now serving as a science teacher, coach, and House Administrator, Mr. Bucy shares how each step prepared him to mentor students academically, spiritually, and personally.

In this episode of the CSW Podcast, Dr. Dernlan sits down with Upper School humanities teacher Kris Darrah, a true original Saint. Having taught at CSW since the very beginning, Kris has guided students in 6th grade, 7th–8th grade, and 11th–12th grade classrooms. Beyond academics, she has coached tennis, launched CSW’s cheer program, and left a lasting mark on our school culture. A new author and a beloved teacher, Kris reflects on her journey, her students, and what makes CSW such a special place.

What’s it like to serve CSW as both a leader and a parent? In this episode, CFO Ben Zickafoose and Head of School, Dr. Tim Dernlan, talk through Ben’s background, career, and life at CSW. From coaching on the court to managing finances and raising a family in the CSW community, Ben shares how the school has impacted his family and why he believes so strongly in its mission.

Head of School Dr. Timothy Dernlan sits down with Director of Admissions Julie Kice to discuss her journey to CSW and how classical Christian education has formed her family.

In this episode, our Head of School sits down with Classical School of Wichita’s Athletic Director for a conversation about his journey in athletics, coaching, and education, and how those experiences have shaped CSW’s athletic program.

Episode notes

Guests: Headmaster Josh Dyson, Upper School Principal Grant Bickell

Topic: Josh reads through out Philosophy of Modesty.