Classroom Conversations

In this episode of Classroom Conversations, we take you inside a recent professional development experience our faculty had at researchED in New York City—a global movement bridging the gap between education research and classroom practice. Unlike typical conferences driven by the latest trends, researchED empowered our teachers to think critically, lean into the science of learning, and ask one essential question: How do we know learning is actually happening?

We unpack insights on why catering to student "learning styles" may not be as effective as once thought, how to use classroom data to measure real progress, and why students benefit when teachers make learning intentions clear and purposeful. Join us as we explore how evidence-informed teaching practices are transforming our classrooms and how we’re helping students move beyond compliance to genuine understanding.

In Part 2 of our special series reflecting on the researchED conference in New York City, we explore how faith and science come together in our approach to teaching and learning. This conversation isn't just for educators—it's for parents, too.

We discuss how biblical wisdom calls us to be both humble and discerning in our practice, resisting the pull of educational arrogance while still setting high, healthy expectations for our students. As children of God, students are not only capable of deep understanding—they are called to pursue it. Through the lens of research and faith, we share how clarity, accountability, and purpose in the classroom can shape both the mind and the heart.

In this episode of Classroom Conversations, we dive into the foundational role reading plays in a child's development and why reading at home with parents is more than a supplement—it's a cornerstone. From forming summer reading goals to navigating reading levels and selecting appropriate books, we offer practical tools for families to take an active role in their child’s literacy journey.

You’ll also hear about classroom strategies like pairing struggling readers with stronger ones, using assessments to identify reading levels, and how older students are measured with tools like Lexile scores and reading scales. 

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or both—this episode offers insight and encouragement to make reading and writing a shared, joyful experience.

In Part 2 of this episode, host Derek Bargatze along with Gregg Garner, Head of School, and Craig Duffy, Director of Education explore the how behind teaching life skills—and why a strong model rooted in human connection is non-negotiable. While schools play a vital role, they can’t fully replicate the impact of life skills passed down through real relationships, especially within the home.

This episode dives into why families must be part of the process. From understanding the digital and cultural trends shaping today’s students to reinforcing the values that build character, it’s clear: teaching life skills is a shared responsibility. We talk about the importance of modeling, mentorship, and intentional conversations that move beyond curriculum checklists.

In a world where balancing a budget, managing credit, and curating your online presence rival academic success, host Derek Bargatze along with Gregg Garner, Head of School, and Craig Duffy, Director of Education, dive into the life skills every K-12 student deserves to learn—but often don’t. They’ll explore the critical gap between traditional K–12 education and real-world readiness. From financial literacy and soft skills to ethics, spirituality, and navigating social media, they unpack what students really need to thrive in today’s world.

In the second episode of this two-part series, our hosts focus on the vital role discipline plays in teaching values within K-12 private schools. At the Academy for GOD, discipline is seen as an intentional act of love that helps shape students’ character and guide them in their faith journey. The conversation highlights how measures of discipline are not about punishment but about reinforcing the institution’s biblical values and nurturing a Christ-centered community.

The hosts also explore the importance of collaboration among teachers to consistently uphold the school’s approach to discipline. When educators work together, they create a unified environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

Join us as we reflect on how loving discipline reflects God’s heart for His children and equips students to grow in self-discipline, respect, and a deeper understanding of what it means to live out their faith.

In this two-part series, our hosts, Gregg Garner, Derek Bargatze, Craig Duffy, and Alex Castro dive into the history and transformation of discipline in K-12 private schools, exploring how traditional methods have evolved to include social-emotional learning (SEL) and restorative practices. These modern approaches emphasize teaching students self-regulation and fostering a sense of belonging, which directly impact both behavior and academic success.

Considering Hebrews 12, the discussion reflects on how God disciplines His children as an act of love and inclusion in His family. The hosts explore how this biblical perspective inspires schools to view discipline not as punishment but as an opportunity to instill values and guide students. Discipline, rooted in scripture, affirms a student's identity within a community with shared principles.

Tune in to hear how faith, SEL, and restorative practices intertwine to create a more compassionate and effective framework for behavioral management in private schools.

In this second installment, our hosts tackle critical questions about artificial intelligence and its influence on the next generation. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, parents face new challenges: how do we prepare our students for exposure to AI, and how can we guide them to navigate this technology wisely? The discussion emphasizes the importance of teaching discernment—helping students distinguish true knowledge from misinformation.

The hosts also highlight the limitations of AI, reminding listeners of its inability to replicate human creativity, wisdom, or moral reasoning. Rooted in a biblical worldview, the conversation explores how children of God are called to exercise dominion, using innovation like AI as a tool while staying grounded in truth. This episode equips parents and educators with insights to lead with confidence in an AI-driven world.

In this first part of a two-part series, Academy Founder, Gregg Garner, Derek Bargatze and Craig Duffy explore the rapid development of artificial intelligence and its growing role in the lives of young people today. From chatbots to creative tools, AI is shaping how students learn, interact, and engage with the world around them. The conversation delves into how schools are navigating this technological shift—determining its validity, addressing hesitations to accept and adapt, and exploring ways to use AI responsibly and effectively.

The hosts also discuss a key skill for the modern age: prompting and training AI to produce meaningful, accurate results. With AI’s potential to transform education, the episode encourages listeners to consider how schools can embrace innovation while maintaining their mission and values. Whether you're curious, cautious, or fully onboard with AI, this conversation will challenge and inspire your perspective on technology in education.

Our hosts, Gregg Garner, Craig Duffy, Derek Bargatze and Rachel Hartnell, dive into the history and significance of accreditation and standardized testing in education. They explore the origins of accreditation and examine its implications for schools, families, and educators. From a biblical perspective, they discuss how Christian schools can remain mission-focused while navigating these systems.

The conversation also unpacks the history of standardized testing, its benefits, and its limitations, while reflecting on how these assessments impact students and schools. Why did the Academy for GOD pursue accreditation after 10 years, and how does it affect us as a school community? Finally, the hosts celebrate a milestone achievement: earning the prestigious Cognia School of Distinction honor.

Join us as we explore the balance between academic standards and biblical principles, and what it means for the future of education.