AACS Today

The Special Education Summit: A Comprehensive Resource for Parents, Educators, and Pastors

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Dr. Coppola sit down with Sara Bookout, Director of the Hope Allen Center for Exceptional Children, to discuss the critical role of special education within the Christian school and church. As many ministries seek to improve their support for students with disabilities, this conversation highlights the Special Education Summit [https://www.tabernaclechristianschool.org/specialeducationsummit26] as a premier resource for professional development and spiritual encouragement. Sarah outlines the summit’s unique approach, which brings together parents, educators, and church leaders to share practical tools and success stories. The discussion explores key concepts such as "putting people before paper"—a leadership philosophy focused on supporting teachers and families through efficient systems and relational ministry. Listeners will gain insight into the summit's diverse offerings, ranging from sessions on neuroplasticity and classroom management to legal planning for families and establishing sustainable church ministries. Whether your organization is just starting to consider special education or is looking to expand an existing program, this episode provides a roadmap for taking the "next step" in serving families with special needs. Join us to learn how your ministry can find the refreshment and equipment necessary to bear one another’s burdens through excellence in special education.

Offensive Christianity?

In this episode of AACS Today, Jamison is joined by Pastor Chase Davis to discuss his book, Offensive Christianity: Restoring the Strength of Men in a Feminized Age. The conversation explores the reality that God-designed masculine traits—such as ambition, assertiveness, and physical energy—are increasingly viewed as "offensive" in modern culture and educational settings. Davis addresses the unintended suppression of male instincts in schools and challenges the "managerialism" that prioritizes mere "niceness" over biblical virtues. He redefines meekness as "power under control" rather than a call to weakness or passivity. The discussion provides vital insights for Christian educators, urging them to audit their philosophies to ensure they are raising courageous young men who exercise dominion and agency for God's glory. Ultimately, Davis calls for a civilizational renewal through the restoration of authentic, biblical masculinity.

Developing God-Given Talents: Reflections on the National Fine Arts Competition

In this episode, Matt and Jamison provide an inspiring recap of the recent AACS National Fine Arts Competition held at Bob Jones University. The discussion highlights some of the the updates of the event—dubbed "Nationals 2.0"—which introduced exciting new categories like classical guitar and animation videography to reflect student interests. The hosts celebrate the remarkable excellence of nearly 2,000 students competing across five core divisions: Bible, Music, Speech, Art, and Academics. Key highlights include a breakdown of the revised Cup of Excellence scoring system and new division-specific awards recognizing standout achievements from states including Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, New Jersey and eventual Cup of Excellence winner, Virginia. Join us as we celebrate the dedication of students and educators striving to develop their God-given talents for His glory.

Embodying the Truth with Billy Hutchinson

This episode of AACS Today features Billy Hutchinson, Director of Colson Educators at the Colson Center. Hutchinson addresses the vital distinction between simply teaching Bible stories and cultivating a comprehensive biblical worldview that informs every aspect of a student's life. He argues that while many schools operate with a biblical framework, a true biblical worldview requires teachers to act as “worldview communicators” who replicate their own character and faith in their students. The discussion introduces a framework where the campus becomes a manifestation of culture, shaped specifically by what is stated, tolerated, and celebrated. By emphasizing “relational capital” and a leadership style that balances justice and mercy, Hutchinson illustrates how schools can foster genuine human flourishing. He also highlights free professional development resources available through Colson Educators, including worldview formation courses and the “Planning Period” newsletter, designed to help busy teachers integrate faith into subjects like math and science. This episode serves as a practical guide for leaders striving to ensure their school environment is a living embodiment of the biblical worldview. For more information about Colson Educators, visit this link [https://www.colsoneducators.org/]. To signup for the Planning Period newsletter, click here [https://www.colsoneducators.org/planning-period].

What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family with Tim Goeglein

Join Matt and Jamison as they welcome back Tim Goeglein, Vice President for External Relations at Focus on the Family, for an insightful discussion on his forthcoming book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family. In this episode, Goeglein explores the urgent need to "restate the obvious" by returning to first principles—faith, family, and marriage—to counter aggressive secularism. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on "restoring the American male," addressing the crisis of fatherlessness and the cultural shift toward a more "feminized" society. Goeglein presents sobering data on male loneliness and employment trends, arguing that strong marriages remain the highest predictor of life satisfaction in America. The discussion also highlights the importance of historical literacy and character-based education in sustaining a constitutional republic. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that true restoration will not come from government or politics, but from a bottom-up reclaiming of the foundational values that define the American experience. This summary provides a roadmap for listeners dedicated to preserving a legacy of virtue for the next generation. Tim's book can be purchased here [https://www.amazon.com/What-Really-Matters-Restoring-Freedom/dp/1956454888] or at your favorite bookstore.