Navigating the Education Freedom Tax Credit: A Preview of Treasury Regulations

Navigating the Education Freedom Tax Credit: A Preview of Treasury Regulations

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 [https://accordkids.org/].

Meet the 2026 Summer Interns: Seth and Johnathan

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.

Waiting in Hope: the Latest on the Education Freedom Tax Credit

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.

A New Day in DC: Inside the DOJ’s Anti-Christian Bias Task Force

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.

A New Resurgence: Restoring the Legacy of Scripture Memory in the Christian School with Micah Folkers

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/ [https://www.biblequizzer.net/].