The Griffin Rundown

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown, we are pleased to share the audio recording of Heritage Classical Academy’s Annual State of the School Meeting. Hear a reflection on God's faithfulness, an update on the school's mission and vision, and a look ahead at what is to come for our community.

You'll also enjoy the latest happenings around campus, upcoming events, and, of course, the Joke of the Week.

What role can a school dance play in shaping culture, building community, and glorifying God? In this episode of The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond sits down with Mr. Grant Bickell, who has helped Heritage Classical Academy develop the vision and voice behind many of our school dances and celebrations.

Together, they explore how Heritage has approached school dances differently by first asking an important question: What do we want this to be? Rather than simply hosting an event, the goal has been to cultivate Christian community, encourage joyful fellowship, and provide students with a beautiful picture of celebration rooted in truth.

What does it take to help children become confident, capable readers who genuinely love books? In this episode of The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond sits down with Lower School Curriculum Director Mrs. Tracy Villers to explore the foundations of reading instruction at Heritage Classical Academy.

The conversation highlights the importance of cultivating a love of reading. From building strong habits at home to creating meaningful experiences with great books in the classroom, Mrs. Villers offers practical insights into helping young readers grow both in skill and delight.

This week on The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond sits down with Latin and Greek teachers Mrs. Arlia and Mr. Hermesmann to explore why we study the classical languages and the lasting value they bring to a classical Christian education. You’ll also hear about what’s happening in the life of our school and, of course, the Joke of the Week!

This week on The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond sits down with Dr. Austin Shaw, pastor of Providence Church, to discuss our chapel theme for the 2026–2027 school year: The Doctrine of God’s Providence. Together, they reflect on the comfort, hope, and peace that come from knowing that the one true God is sovereign over all things and faithfully carries out His purposes.

They also consider how we can help our children develop a “big God” view as they face the joys, uncertainties, and realities of life. Our hope is that the truth of God’s providence would sink deeply into the hearts and minds of our students, reminding them that they can trust Him in every circumstance.

What does it mean for a student to truly succeed at Heritage? This week on the Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond welcomes our new Dean of Student Success, Mr. Doug Walker, for a conversation about his new role, its impact on our Heritage community, and the bigger picture of student success. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know Mr. Walker and hear his vision for supporting our Griffins.

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown, we begin the school year with a new Head of School. David Nees and Daniel Bond sit down for a special interview to discuss the transition of leadership. Hear Mr. Bond share his background, vision for Heritage, and excitement for the year ahead.

You'll also enjoy everyone's favorite segment, Joke of the Week, featuring another student-submitted joke sure to bring a smile.

We're grateful to begin another season of the Griffin Rundown and look forward to sharing stories, highlights, and conversations from across our Heritage community throughout the year. Thank you for listening, and welcome back!

In the final Griffin Rundown of the school year, Mr. Nees sits down with seniors Max McCort and Grace Ochenjele for a thoughtful and reflective conversation. As the first-ever graduating class of HCA, Max and Grace share what it has been like to help shape the school’s early years. They also discuss their Senior Thesis projects and talk about where they are headed after graduation.

This week on the podcast, Mr. Nees sits down with Elizabeth Joyce, Director of Advancement, and Rick Eimers, Senior Development Officer, to talk all about this year’s Giving Day. They share what makes this year’s effort especially meaningful, as all funds raised will support the Annual Fund, which helps provide student scholarships and teacher benefits beyond the standard budget.

Listeners will learn why Giving Day matters, how these contributions directly impact the school community, and how everyone can get involved. Plus, we’ll hear news and announcements—and of course, the joke of the week to keep things light.

On this week’s episode, Mr. Nees is joined by historian Dr. Jason Edwards, professor at Grove City College, and HCA Upper School teacher Mr. Weiland for a timely and thoughtful conversation. Together, they reflect on the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, exploring the enduring relationship between faith and freedom and asking a key question: What role does education play in shaping citizens who understand and preserve both?

In addition to this rich discussion, the episode also features news and announcements from around the community—and, of course, the always-anticipated Joke of the Week. Don’t miss it!