Lionel Cable joins us to share how a Christ-centered, whole child model in Memphis is opening doors for under-resourced families through rigorous academics, deep relationships, and a culture of joy. Lionel walks us through New Hope’s origin, outcomes, farm and forest learning, alumni support, and bold plans to expand.

• founding vision rooted in urban Christian education
• five keys of teaching, learning, discipleship, affordability, relationships
• culture shaped by joyful hiring and mission clarity
• campus highlights: renovated gym, forest, and farm
• alumni support office guiding school choice and college
• ways to help through prayer, volunteering, and giving

Laura Barringer shares her journey from kindergarten teacher to co-author with her father of "A Church Called Tov" and "Pivot," exploring how biblical goodness transforms Christian communities.

• Tov is the Hebrew word for goodness appearing over 700 times in Scripture
• Tov cultures are characterized by empathy, grace, truth-telling, and putting people first
• Honest assessment requires asking for feedback and being willing to hear uncomfortable truths
• Leaders must listen when the Holy Spirit disrupts their plans and ambitions
• Healthy leadership uses power as Jesus did—often by giving it away rather than controlling others

Lorelei Kilmer, a former NorthStar Academy student, shares her journey from being a third culture kid to discovering her calling in campus ministry with the Navigators after college graduation.

• Spent three years at North Star Academy while her family served in Turkey
• Found valuable community and spiritual formation through NorthStar's online education
• Recently graduated college where she was deeply involved in ministry
• Describes the challenges and blessings of being a Third Culture Kid (TCK)
• Advises current students to be brave when facing transitions rather than fearful
• Will be mentoring 5-6 college women through personal relationships while leading Bible studies on campus
• Views her TCK background as an "identity gift" that helps her connect with diverse students
• Shares how discipleship creates generational impact through spiritual multiplication

Tiffany Charles, Director of Admissions at Houston Christian University, shares her expertise and passion for helping students navigate the college admission process through a faith-centered approach. Her journey from homeschooling mom to higher education leader reveals how relationships and discipleship can transform educational experiences for students and families alike.

• Biblical foundation for education based on Proverbs 22:6 and 2 Timothy 2:15
• Relational versus transactional approach to college admissions
• College essays as opportunities to share your authentic self beyond test scores
• College is financially possible regardless of circumstances—sticker price isn't what most students pay
• Parents should start the college research process early, ideally by sophomore year
• Every year of high school matters for building a strong academic foundation
• Importance of prayer and seeking wisdom when feeling overwhelmed by college decisions

NorthStar Academy celebrates a significant milestone with the formation of its first-ever independent governing board while maintaining its 27-year commitment to Christ-centered education and discipleship. The transition marks a new chapter of growth and development while keeping the school firmly anchored in its founding mission.

• Board Secretary Katie Ahmadzai shares her transition from principal to board member to balance family needs while continuing to serve North Star's mission
• Board Chairman Danny Coyle explains how his experience with international transitions and developing short-term leaders aligns with North Star's global vision
• Both board members reflect on learning to trust God's provision through the process rather than seeking immediate solutions

NorthStar Academy introduces Entrepreneurship 1, a course focused on building character, resilience, and real-world readiness rather than just teaching business fundamentals. Jen Sullivan brings her passion for student transformation to this innovative program that emphasizes growth mindset, grit, redefining failure, and opportunity seeking.

• Developing essential life skills through entrepreneurship education
• Focusing on character development over mere business content
• Building "anti-fragile" students who can handle challenges
• Embracing "progress over perfection" as a guiding principle
• Creating collaborative learning experiences in an online environment
• Transforming struggling students by giving them vision and purpose
• Integrating biblical worldview with entrepreneurial thinking
• Connecting students with resources, mentors, and real-world applications
• Teaching practical business skills through a four-step process: ideation, creation, launch, and growth
• Preparing students for life beyond high school regardless of career path

Arkansas's AR Learns program provides homeschool families with funds that can be used for educational expenses, including NorthStar Academy's global online courses. As an approved service provider, NorthStar offers accredited curriculum aligned with state standards while connecting students with peers around the world, developing both academic knowledge and cross-cultural understanding.

• NorthStar Academy is now an approved service provider for Arkansas's EFA program
• Families can receive $1,716 per quarter beginning in the 2025-2026 school year
• Funds can be used for curriculum, specialized classes, educational field trips, and more
• Similar voucher programs exist in other states including Arizona and Florida
• Online learning develops executive functioning and communication skills for college readiness
• Global classroom experience connects students across multiple continents
• Dual accreditation through ACSI and Cognia ensures quality standards

For more information about NorthStar Academy, visit nsaschool.com or email info@nsa.school.

The educational landscape is transforming before our eyes. As Principal Katie Ahmadzai reveals in this illuminating conversation, Christian education has evolved far beyond traditional classrooms into a diverse ecosystem serving each student's unique needs.

What drives parents to consider different educational models? Katie explores how the foundation of Christian education—recognizing each child as created in God's image—fundamentally changes how students engage with learning. Unlike an escape from the world, today's Christian education prepares students to impact it purposefully.

Beyond academic growth, Katie emphasizes how we must entrust our children to God while supporting their spiritual development. Through literature, science, history, and mathematics, students encounter God's beauty in every subject area.

Looking toward education's future, Katie shares her excitement for how technology—including AI—can create more personalized learning experiences while freeing teachers to focus on meaningful human connection. NorthStar's international character, connecting students from over 80 countries, creates a unique environment where students don't just learn about different cultures but learn with peers from around the world.

For brick-and-mortar schools and families seeking to supplement traditional education, NorthStar offers remarkable flexibility. From individual courses to innovative programs like their new Entrepreneurship 1 Live class, students can develop crucial self-management skills while engaging with a global community.

Whether you're seeking alternative education options, supplemental opportunities, or simply curious about where education is heading, this conversation provides valuable insights into nurturing both the minds and hearts of the next generation.