Advertise on podcast: AACS Today

In this episode of AACS Today, host Jamison Coppola welcomes Randy Melchert, Director of Accord Kids, to break down the Treasury Department’s newly released 181-page proposed regulations for the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC). Set to launch in 2027, this landmark federal tax credit allows individual taxpayers to redirect up to $1,700—and married couples filing jointly up to $3,400—of their existing federal tax liability to fund Christian school scholarships at zero net cost to donors. Coppola and Melchert analyze critical regulatory updates, including 96% student eligibility, strong safeguards for religious liberty, and key victories regarding governor opt-in rules and cross-border student flexibility. The conversation also explores how Accord Kids—the AACS-affiliate scholarship franting organization—is equipping school leaders, parents, and donors with the resources needed to navigate this once-in-a-generation opportunity. Tune in to discover how Christian educators can prepare their school communities for launch day on January 1, 2027, and equip more families to access a faith-based education.

In this episode of AACS Today, Hannah DeBruler, higher education policy analyst for the AACS, joins Matt to analyze a newly proposed IRS rule on racial nondiscrimination in private schools. While designed to address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies across educational institutions, the hosts examine the broader implications of this regulation for K–12 Christian schools, colleges, and trade schools. The discussion explores the legal history surrounding tax-exempt status, specifically highlighting how the precedent of "fundamental public policy" established by the Supreme Court could present long-term risks to religious liberty under future presidential administrations. To safeguard faith-based institutions, Ticzkus and DeBruler outline two vital action steps: submitting public feedback on the Federal Register before the November 3 deadline and advocating for the Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act of 2026. Tune in to discover how Christian educators and ministry leaders can proactively engage in public policy to protect the future of faith-based education.

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison Coppola recap the highlights and impact of the American Association of Christian Schools’ National Legislative Conference (NLC) in Washington, D.C.. The hosts detail how school leaders gathered to advocate for key policy priorities, including Educational Freedom Tax Credit Scholarships, protecting tax exemptions for religious organizations, and supporting the Chloe Cole Act. Beyond legislative strategy, the episode highlights member briefings, spiritual encouragement from speaker Dean Miller, and the presentation of the American Freedom Award to retiring Congressman Barry Loudermilk following his address at the closing banquet. They reflect on the vital role of grassroots advocacy, urging Christian educators to embrace self-government by building active relationships with their elected representatives. Whether discussing Capitol Hill advocacy or lighthearted moments on the pickleball court, this conversation underscores how educators can boldly influence public policy while staying anchored in their faith. Tune in for an inspiring look at how Christian education and policy intersect in our nation's capital.

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison reflect on the 25th anniversary of September 11 and its enduring significance for American society and Christian education. They share personal memories from that historic day while recalling the extraordinary role of AACS leaders in Washington, D.C., who conducted impromptu prayer meetings with White House administration staff during the immediate aftermath of the attacks. The hosts also explore lesser-known historical context surrounding aviation security, including General Benjamin Davis’s 1974 warning about potential airborne mass-casualty events. Addressing a growing generational divide among students born after 9/11, the discussion emphasizes the essential responsibility Christian educators hold in instilling heroism, self-sacrifice, and moral clarity. Highlighting recent sentiments shared by the Department of Education, this episode underscores why schools must ensure rising generations honor the victims, remember first responders, and understand this pivotal watershed moment. Tune in to explore how Christian schools can preserve these vital historical lessons to cultivate gratitude, courage, and hope for the future.

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison sit down with Katy Faust, the founder and president of the global children's rights movement Them Before Us. Faust discusses her organization's primary mission: defending children's natural rights to their biological mother and father. She challenges modern assumptions about family structures, explaining why marriage, IVF, surrogacy, and adoption must be viewed through a child-centric, justice-focused lens rather than adult desires. Faust outlines her global efforts to change hearts and laws, including the "Greater Than" campaign aimed at overturning Obergefell. She also shares practical, countercultural advice for Christian parents and educators navigating hostile cultural environments. Faust details her unique approach to worldview preparation, emphasizing how parents can proactively equip children—especially middle schoolers—to recognize secular distortions and stand firm in their faith. Tune in to explore how natural law, children's lived experiences, and timeless biblical truths can protect the next generation in an increasingly complex world.

In this episode, Matt and Jamison  discuss a recent visit to a White House back-to-school event. Dr. Coppola, who attended the Rose Garden ceremony, highlights President Trump’s focus on key education policies, centering on three main themes: the primary role of parents in education, expanding school choice through the proposed Education Freedom Tax Credit, and the eventual dismantling of the federal Department of Education. The conversation blends serious policy analysis with lighthearted moments, including a whimsical recount of Trump leading attendees on an unscheduled tour of a new White House helipad under construction. Ultimately, the hosts underscore how the AACS invitation to such high-profile events reflects the organization's outsized influence in Washington, DC, and its ongoing mission to advocate for parental rights and biblically-based education. This episode serves as an encouraging reminder of the tangible fruit of Christian school advocacy.

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison explore the unique, often underappreciated challenges facing Christian school leaders during the demanding back-to-school season. Transitioning from nostalgic reflections on childhood school supply shopping, the co-hosts dive into the high-stress realities of modern school administration, addressing critical hurdles like last-minute staffing shortages, tight budgets, and unexpected building maintenance costs. Drawing from their own leadership experiences, the hosts offer a blend of practical strategies and spiritual encouragement. They emphasize the vital importance of "sharpening the saw" through physical activity, continuous personal development, and guilt-free rest. The discussion also covers essential principles for building organizational trust, navigating difficult personalities, and establishing a healthy work-life "counterbalance". Grounded in biblical wisdom from James and Hebrews, this episode serves as a refreshing, supportive guide designed to sustain educators as they embark on a new school year.

With Congress in recess, this briefing provides a critical update on key legislative priorities affecting the Christian school community and religious liberty. The discussion features an in-depth look at two major House bills: the Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act, which seeks to protect the tax-exempt status of ministries holding traditional views on marriage, and the Chloe Cole Act, designed to provide legal recourse for individuals harmed by pediatric gender-transition procedures. Moving to the Senate, the hosts analyze the College Transparency Act and the Protect College Sports Act, highlighting concerns regarding federal oversight and the preservation of biological women's sports.  Finally, the episode explores the future of "Reconciliation 3.0" and the transformative potential of the Education Freedom Tax Credit. Discover how the AACS’s new scholarship entity, Accord Kids, is preparing to help families access Christian education through these upcoming federal opportunities. Stay informed on how these Washington developments impact your ministry.

Matt and AACS Government Relations Specialist, Olivia Summers, provide a comprehensive recap of the 32nd annual Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC) in Washington, D.C.. This year’s event brought together 40 students from 18 states to explore public policy through the lens of a Christian worldview, casting a vital vision for politics as a ministry. The hosts explore the highlights of a busy week, including the intensive Mock Senate simulation and a historic briefing held on the White House grounds. Listeners will hear how students engaged directly with the legislative process by meeting with congressional offices to advocate for the education freedom tax credit. The discussion also features insights from guest speakers like Dr. Matthew Spalding and Tim Goeglein, alongside a panel of YLDC alumni currently serving as congressional staffers. From tours of the U.S. Capitol during the America 250 celebrations to a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, discover how this program equips the next generation of engaged citizens. Tune in to learn more about the application process for the 2027 conference.

In this episode, Matt and Jamison sit down with departing summer interns Jonathan Dys and Seth Walker to reflect on their eight-week experience in Washington, D.C.. The conversation explores the interns' professional growth as they transitioned to the rigors of a full-time office schedule and navigated the complex "politics within the politics" on Capitol Hill. The guests highlight their favorite moments, specifically their leadership roles during the Youth Leadership Development Conference (YLDC), where they mentored students and managed behind-the-scenes logistics. Seth shares how the internship provided clarity on his vocational path, leading him to prioritize ministry while maintaining a deep interest in the political process. Jonathan discusses how the high-energy demands of the summer "stretched" him, reinforcing his studies in history and the nature of human dynamics in government. The episode emphasizes the core philosophy that a career in public policy serves as a form of ministry and service to God. Finally, the hosts provide details on the application timeline for the 2027 summer internship program to continue this leadership pipeline.

Jamison welcomes Dr. Matthew Mehan back to the podcast to discusses his landmark work, The American Book of Fables, an illustrated heirloom collection released to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary,. Dr. Mehan explores his mission to "restore the American imagination" by restocking the cultural pantry with moral images that foster virtue and wisdom in a free people. Organized into thirteen chapters representing distinct American regions—from the Everglades to the Great Lakes—the book weaves together nursery rhymes, fables, and primary sources that explain and elaborate on the core principles of the Declaration of Independence. The conversation highlights how these stories, featuring American wildlife such as bison and beavers instead of traditional Aesopic lions, serve as "moral puzzles" designed to shape the hearts and minds of "littles, middles, and bigs." Dr. Mehan emphasizes that civic rebuilding is a multi-generational endeavor rooted in patriotism, gratitude, and the cultivation of "gentle manliness and womanliness." Listeners will gain insight into the intensive research and artistic collaboration required to produce the book's stunning oil paintings and watercolors,. Ultimately, this episode showcases how fables offer a profound avenue for training witty, wise citizens prepared for a life of service.

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.

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.

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.

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.