Cultivate: A Veritas Academy Podcast

Summer's here (well, at least officially for Veritas families as school is out for the year!), and so it's the perfect opportunity to close out our Cultivate season with some summer reading recommendations courtesy of a few recent graduates from the Class of 2025.Get to know some of our seniors - Meghan Spanjer, Annika Martin, and Daniel Huang - as they share some of their favorite books that they have read here at Veritas (as well as books they've read outside of school that have impacted them). You'll see a theme in the works they've chosen (hint: these may not necessarily be considered "light beach reading"), and likely be inspired to check out some of these influential works of literature which will challenge your viewpoints, provoke deep thought, and perhaps spur you to greater action to advance God's kingdom here on earth wherever you are called!This season of Cultivate has been sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers, a wealth management firm located at North Point Boulevard in Lancaster leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves. 

Liberal arts education - like what we ascribe to at Veritas - can get the (wrongly assumed) reputation of being irrelevant for modern STEM fields, thanks to what is perceived as a humanities-heavy curriculum. We cry foul on that argument - and our alumni prove it invalid as well!Hear a conversation with two Veritas alumni who are both flourishing as engineers - Zach Spykstra (class of 2012) and Aaron Lielbriedis (class of 2020). They'll share their stories of how classical Christian education uniquely prepared them for success in their STEM fields. The conversation turns to:What they most appreciated - and what they would most like to change - about their Veritas education.How each of them maintained their faith as they navigated college and secular science fields.How a liberal arts education specifically equipped them for college and their careers, giving them advantages of traditionally-educated peers.Fun discussions on automotive and power generation technologies, and more!Thank you to our Cultivate Season 4 sponsor, Hershey Financial Advisers, a wealth management firm located at North Point Boulevard in Lancaster leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves. 

In this episode, Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer talks with one of our sixth grade teachers, Ibrahim "Ibby" Rios, who came to Veritas Academy after many years teaching in the public school system in Philadelphia, in Chester County, and Maryland. Hear his story of what spurred him on to seek a different kind of education, not only to teach, but for his own children, and what it was about classical Christian education that specifically drew him.

Did you know that students at Veritas (and other classical Christian schools) begin learning Latin in second grade? And, they continue it as a required part of their curriculum through 7th grade? And furthermore, some elect to study Latin as their language of choice in 9th - 12th grade, too?And we know many parents might be saying:"Um...why? Isn't it a dead language? Why would you spend so much time and effort on something that isn't even spoken aloud anymore?"So glad you asked, because that's what this episode is all about, and we're about to make you a bona fide (see what we did there?) Latin enthusiast!Hear an interview with our Lower Grammar School Latin Teacher Miss Sarah Smith and our Upper School Latin Teacher Mr. Stephen Darrenkamp. They'll walk us through the myriad benefits that students reap from learning Latin at all phases, and give a you a glimpse into what studying Latin looks like at Veritas for our youngest students through our advanced high schoolers.After all is said and done, you'll be so glad that your child is learning Latin...or, if you're not at Veritas currently, you just might consider this yet another excellent reason to enroll your child in a classical Christian school!This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers,  a wealth management firm located at North Point Boulevard in Lancaster, PA, leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.

It may seem antiquated, and it's fallen out of fashion in most modern education circles, but memorization - once a staple of school - is very much alive (and awesome) here in the Veritas Academy Grammar School grades. Why do we adhere to rote memorization as a primary learning tool for young kids? Two big reasons - because it works (really, really works), and because it's fun! And it may look quite differently from how you picture it.In this episode, Veritas first grade teacher Mrs. Katie Thompson and third grade teacher Mrs. Judy Hermanovitch share their experience and stories that highlight how and why memorization is simply the best learning tool for younger children. You'll hear:Why (biologically) kids are truly designed as sponges.What memorization looks like during the school day at Veritas.How memorizing information, songs, and facts in grammar school is serving kids in their older years.Their insights and stories may flip what you thought you knew about memorization in school on its head, replacing images of dry, monotone chants and information cramming with joyful, exuberant songs and a lifelong love of learning!This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers,  a wealth management firm located at North Point Boulevard in Lancaster, PA, leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.

Teachers, school administrators, and parents alike can attest - this time of year can be pretty rough and active in terms of discipline needs for students. But we realize that discipline is a year-round endeavor, one that is both challenging and crucial in the spiritual development of our kids.Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer, Principal Dr. Dan Spanjer, and Dean of Students Graham Dennis have been around the block and back a few times when it comes to dealing with discipline of kids from kindergarten through senior high - not just student discipline at school, mind you, but their own children as well. Their insights in this episode are encouraging to all Christian parents who are seeking to discipline not just their children's behavior, but really their hearts toward a more mature relationship with God.In this episode, a follow up to our previous one, Ty, Graham, and Dan will bring their perspectives from their many years of serving in a disciplinary role at Veritas to discuss: How discipline - biblically speaking - is meant to be the way we are discipled to be more like Christ. Helping kids and parents alike deal with (and remove) the shame associated with discipline, and to see it as an opportunity for growth and training. How to handle common discipline struggles, including how to handle discipline when we're angry, and how to handle the inevitable "he said, she said" scenarios. How parents can best approach a situation when they find out their child has needed disciplinary action at school in a way that shepherds their kids' heart toward growth, love, and restoration. What does a visit to the Principal's office at Veritas look like for kids of all ages (and how might it differ from the dreaded Principal Office visits of pop culture or your own memory)?This season of Cultivate is sponsored by Hershey Financial Advisers,  a wealth management firm located at North Point Boulevard in Lancaster, PA, leading people to make better financial decisions and empowering them to fulfill a vision beyond themselves.

The doldrums of Februrary are legendary for being something of a nightmare for teachers, school administrators, parents, and even kids. Cabin fever kicks in, and as the temperatures outside plummet, sometimes the tempers can rise. Many a school principal across the country can probably attest to the uptick in disciplinary issues that seems to present itself around this time of year.So, it's an apropos time to talk about discipline, yes? As a classical Christian school, Veritas approaches discipline differently than your typical school. Recognizing the relationship between the words "discipline" and "discipleship," our teachers and administrators aim to use challenging behaviors and situations to help point children toward being more like Christ.This episode is a conversation with our Pastoral Team - Principal Dan Spanjer, Dean of Students Graham Dennis, and School Counselor Rachel Kiehl - diving into the heart of discipline at Veritas and within the context of Christian parenting.Learn how this team of school administrators applies Christ-centered discipline aimed at restoration, with a heart for the holistic development of students toward maturity in Christ. Hear a little about how you as a parent can help your child learn and grow from discipline issues that happen at school, what kinds of contemporary cultural views clash with biblical discipline, and how resilience and emotional intelligence factor into your child's ability to receive restorative discipline.Thank you to our season sponsor,Hershey Financial Advisors.

When you think of college entrance exams, the first one that almost certainly comes to mind is, of course, the SAT (with the ACT close behind), which has dominated the field for over a century. But there is a new test on the scene - The Classic Learning Test (CLT), honoring the enduring tradition of classical education. And, its catching on across the nation. In this conversation with Jeremy Tate, founder and CEO of the CLT, you'll hear the enlightening story of how Jeremy was inspired to implement an alternative to College Board's SAT behemoth. Jeremy explains the influence of classical education on his development and the pivotal points that led him to create CLT, prompting students to engage with classic and traditional texts rather than modern, often ideologically driven materials. Discover this new exam on the old ways – the CLT, which now serves around 250,000 students and is accepted by approximately 300 colleges, including major institutions in Florida.

If there's one thing that a typical school day at a classical Christian school should not be, it's boring. That's because classical Christian school teachers and administrators not only find and impart great joy and passion in the subjects they're teaching (and the awesome God who created them all!), but also because this education model lends itself to such creative ideas and ways of learning. Emily Fischer, our fourth grade teacher, has been embodying this type of creativity in her classroom for many years, and has helped guide and inspire many other teachers to do likewise. It's not uncommon to walk by her classroom and smell smoke, hear power tools, or see costumed kids wielding weapons...and know that it's all part of the plan and going just fine! Emily joins her husband, Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer, on this episode to give listeners a glimpse into this wholly different, beautiful, joyful way of learning that is classical Christian education, especially as it relates to Grammar School. This conversation will help you see one more way that Veritas is likely quite different from any other school you've encountered, and perhaps even inspire you to aim for creative, outside-the-box, or even slightly risky traditions that will help your child mature as the young man or women God is designing them to be. In the midst of it, you'll get a tour through our fourth grade year, a thrilling journey through the Medieval, Renaissance, and Reformation time periods peppered with castles, swords, exciting field trips, memorable moments, and (of course) lots of fire.

In this episode - our final episode of 2024 - Ty Fischer talks with Pastor Robert Godfrey (Zeltenreich Reformed Church) and his wife Catherine about how we as Christian parents can cultivate our children's prayer and devotional lives by fostering a culture of family prayer and devotions in our home. The conversation touches on not only practical tips for parents to get on the right track, but also precious spiritual truths and encouragement no matter what age our children are - that we have a loving, altogether wonderful heavenly Father who is a good God, worthy of worship, and who inclines his ear to his children when they come to him in prayer.

We realize that not every child is going to grow up to be a world class musician or standout singer. Or even be inclined to join their church's choir and go to the symphony every weekend. However, we wholeheartedly believe in music's important place in a child's education - both learning to make good music and learning to appreciate good music. Throughout history, the free societies of the world have valued music education, and for good reason. As we approach our anticipated Christmas Concerts (and Christmas caroling season, of course) this is an excellent time to listen to a conversation with our three music teachers - Sarah Smith (K-2nd grade music), Lindsey Stauffer (upper grammar and secondary music and choir director) and Jennifer Petry (orchestra director) - about why music education enriches a student for life in their future families, churches, and communities at large. Links for Further Listening Here are links to some of the music pieces mentioned in this episode, for your family's further listening enjoyment: ⁠Vivaldi Four Seasons⁠ ⁠Haydn Surprise Symphony⁠ ⁠Bach Toccata and Fugue in d minor⁠ ⁠Berlioz Symphony Fantastique 5th movement

We're one quarter of the way into the school year, and maybe you're finding your child is struggling with a subject. Or, perhaps you're just an intentional parent who wants to do what you can to help your child thrive academically. Or, maybe you're thinking you would like to have your child attend Veritas, but you're concerned the academics would be too challenging. Whatever the case may be, you will enjoy this discussion with the Veritas Learning Support Team - Christine Hertzog, Deb Bentley, and Sandy Olcott - who give insights into the tools and methods they use to help kids grasp course material, things they've seen well-meaning parents do that can hinder kids' academic progress, and hope and encouragement pointing us to the real purpose of education (hint: it's not grades).

Our guest is Dr. Walt Mueller of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. Walt will be visiting Veritas Academy on the evening of November 19th to present his "Youth Culture 101" seminar, giving parents insight on the major cultural forces influencing today's kids and providing practical, hope-filled, Biblical perspectives on how to guide our kids through the noise that surrounds them and keep them pointed to Christ. In this episode, Walt brings his experience and expertise to the a discussion on how Christian parents can connect with and guide their kids in truth and light through a complicated, anxiety-ridden culture. Together with our host Ty Fischer, they cover things like: Stress and anxiety in our kids Handing technology Common mistakes well-meaning parents can make Keeping the conversation lines open with your kids And more. For more information on Walt's ministry, visit cpyu.org.

In an election season such as we find ourselves presently, it seems we are inundated with political messages and noise - and much of it can feel frustrating and hopeless as we watch candidates batter one another with meaningless words and even outright falsehoods, and wade through the barrage of sound bytes, video shorts, pithy headlines, and Tic Toks to find something of real substance. In Classical Christian education, Rhetoric is the final stage of learning, preparing a generation of students to take their place as the next citizens, voters, and leaders of our nation. If the art of Rhetoric is "a good man speaking well," then we can agree that more excellent rhetoricians is what our nation could use. In this episode, Ty Fischer talks with the Hon. Gordon Denlinger, former PA State Representative and current Deputy Auditor General, and Veritas Dean of Students and Rhetoric teacher Graham Dennis. They discuss the political climate of this charged election season - and the many that have preceded it over the centuries - and what discerning parents and young people need to keep in mind if we are going to rise above the denigration and noise and speak Christ's truth and light well to a darkening culture.

If you're part of Veritas Academy - or another classical Christian school - you may not be aware that you're part of a burgeoning movement that is impacting families and communities all over the world. Tim Dernlan, Vice President of the Association of Classical Christian Schools, joins Ty Fischer in this first episode of Cultivate Season 4 to give listeners a view from the heights. Whether your family is already involved in a classical Christian school, or you're exploring school options for your children and considering classical education, you will be amazed and inspired to hear how the classical Christian education as we know it grew from humble roots to a worldwide movement of bold and passionate parents, church leaders, and educators seeking to train up a virtuous and courageous generation that will impact the world for Christ.

With the start of school just around the corner, academic endeavors are beginning to bubble to the forefront of our minds and schedules. This episode, originally released in April 2023, will inspire your family for this upcoming school year by showing how pursuing excellence in learning and education can and should deepen our (and our children's) faith and bolster our devotion to God. When did a dichotomy become assumed between academic excellence and Christian devotion? Over time, a mindset has developed that seems to tell us that these two traits can't coexist; that striving for one will compromise the other in our lives. The Veritas Dean of Math and Science, Rhonda Forbes, talks with our host Ty Fischer about why she sees these two worthwhile objectives - academic excellence and Christian devotion - in our lives as being complimentary to one another and even, in fact, informing each other. Parents should not feel like they have to choose between the two, or that by striving to cultivate one in their child's heart they will rob the other from flourishing. On the contrary, Rhonda will pull back the curtain to show you how, as a Christian, striving for academic excellence can and should deepen our wonder and love for God...and how a deep love for God can result in a desire for greater learning, knowledge of His ways and creation, and excellence in all we do. Rhonda Forbes, who was an engineer before embarking on her teaching career at Veritas years ago, teaches both upper school math and Great Books (Omnibus) courses deftly. She and her husband Scott have four grown children, all of whom graduated from Veritas Academy.

This episode originally aired in May of 2023. During this season heading into a Presidential election - and all of the political news and discussions that permeate such a season - we believe this is a timely conversation to release as part of our summer hiatus time. Are you weary of the way that politics has seemed to seep into every corner of our lives, including in the education of even our youngest children? Ty Fischer and Veritas Dean of Students and humanities teacher Graham Dennis talk about the valuing a “pre-political” education, and what that looks like as we seek to cultivate a generation who can discuss an array of difficult topics with confidence, respect, and clarity. The discussion dives all the way back to the Ancient origins of the word politics and meanders into the modern era, helping us to discern how we can raise today's youth to be free thinking citizens who can rise above the mud slinging of today's political ideas. Books referenced in this episode include: ⁠Dorothy Sayers - The Mind of the Maker⁠ ⁠Plato - The Republic⁠ ⁠The Writings of Justin Martyr⁠ ⁠Russel Kirk - Edmund Burke: A Genius Reconsidered⁠ ⁠Josef Pieper - Leisure: The Basis of Culture

This episode originally aired in Season 2 of Cultivate in February of 2023. During the summer months, between our seasons of new episodes, we'll be re-releasing one Season 2 episode each month. ----- David Bahnsen - portfolio manager, author, television commentator, and host of the Dividend Cafe podcast - joins our host Ty Fischer to talk about how we can and should view economics in light of God's plan and glory, and why work is something we should lead our children toward embracing as they live their lives as image bearers of a creative, productive God. The son of the late theologian Greg Bahnsen, David approaches the topic of economics from a unique and biblical perspective that will help you understand today's issues with a new, godly mindset. Find more about David at the links below: ⁠Bahnsen.com⁠ ⁠The Dividend Cafe Podcast⁠  ⁠The Bahnsen Group Investment Firm and Financial Planners⁠ ⁠There's No Free Lunch: 250 Economic Truths (David's most recent book)

Determined truth seekers and bold truth speakers. If you would agree that those are the types of people we want our kids' generation to grow into, then you must listen to this podcast. As our final episode of Season 3, we're bringing our audience back to an exceptionally memorable conversation we had with renowned public intellectual and legal scholar Dr. Robert P. George in Season 2 of Cultivate. In fact, it was this conversation that spurred on the theme of "courage" for Season 3. Dr. George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University, where he also founded and serves as the Director of the ⁠James Madison Program for American Ideals and Institutions.⁠ He was the commencement speaker at Veritas Academy's 2022 graduation ceremony, where he addressed the audience with a talk on Faith, Truth, and Courage. As a prominent scholar and professor whose deeply-held, faith-rooted views often run contrary to many of his peers and contemporaries in higher education, Dr. George has plenty of experience in practicing what he calls his students to do - that is, be determined truth seekers and bold truth speakers. Whether you listened to this episode the first time it aired in April 2023, or you'd like to hear it again, we hope you enjoy the wisdom from this well-known, well-spoken thought leader, as he talks with Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer about what is needed in our society and in the coming generations if we want to see "this great experiment in morally ordered liberty and constitutional government long endure."

The culture is coming for us, as Christians who follow the Way, the Truth, and the Life. And if you're training up your children to do likewise, the culture is coming for them, too. Prepare them. Prepare them to not only stand for what they believe in, but to disagree well with others without destroying relationships. To argue the point and not the person. To not let inevitable conflict breed anger and cynicism in their hearts. And to rely on Christ and His body to wage warfare against the principalities that come against them. Theologian Doug Wilson, Pastor of Christ Church in Moscow, ID and one of the founders of the Association of Classical Christian Schools, joins his longtime friend Ty Fischer to talk about how he has dealt with his share of controversy, and what principles Christian parents and educators can apply to equip our children to handle conflict with grace, wisdom, and truth.

"You talked about WHAT at your Christian school?!" At first glance, that may be a question many would ask us at Veritas, at least when it comes to a program designed for our Rhetoric students called the Strawbridge Discussion Series. You may not expect a school like ours to host speakers who advocate for things like gender fluidity, critical race theory, deconstruction of the Christian faith, and so on. But we know that your children, once they leave the confines of your home, church, and this Christian school - whether in a summer job, college, or their career in the great wide world - will encounter people who espouse these ideas and more. And this program, as a key part of a classical Christian education, helps to prepare them for those important conversations now. Named after our dear friend, pastor, and theologian Dr. Gregg Strawbridge who passed away in 2022, the mission of the Strawbridge Discussion Series is to expose students to worldview perspectives in direct opposition to those embraced by Veritas Academy. Our goal is to do so in a unique and authentic manner, allowing individuals who hold to such views to come and speak at the school. Students will not only learn about these perspectives, but also witness a gracious manner of public discourse, in the same manner that Gregg Strawbridge so aptly modeled in his lifetime. Hear from Head of School Ty Fischer, Dean of Students Graham Dennis, and Dean of Humane Letters Bruce Etter more on our heart behind this program, what it looks like to teach students to engage in respectful and gracious discourse, and how parents can help prepare your children to encounter different worldviews with wisdom, grace, and truth.

In this episode, two seniors from last year's (2023) graduating class reflect on the process of our Rhetoric School capstone course, Senior Thesis. Students John Spead and Meg Coughlan are joined by our upper school Writing and Senior Thesis teacher Ms. Caroline Nixon as they talk with Head of School Ty Fischer about the rewards and challenges of this rigorous course, which culminates the classical Christian education process.

At first glance, many who begin exploring classical Christian education may assume that its proclivity for the humanities - the Great Books, history, philosophy, etc. - leads to weaker science and mathematics disciplines. Hear from Rhonda Forbes, Veritas Dean of Math and Science, and Bill Lauris, beloved Veritas upper school science teacher, on why that assumption is in fact a gross misconception! In this episode, we examine not only our culture's fascination with STEM, but the importance it plays in any student's education. Listen to hear how, specifically, a classical Christian education uniquely prepares students to thrive in STEM fields, thanks to the distinctive tenets which lead to critical thinking, problem solving, and an integrated view of subjects. We'll touch on topics like: Advanced Placement courses and tests Using secular science and math textbooks A classical Christian view of STEM and more! You'll not only get to know a couple of our STEM teachers a little better through this conversation, but you will appreciate and understand how a classical Christian school can offer one of the best platforms for students to develop a love and skillset in math and science. Reading recommendations mentioned in this episode: Bavinck: A Critical Biography The Journal of Chemical Education Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea

Dr. Weiling He, whose family was part of the Veritas Academy school community last year while she was on sabbatical from her position as a professor of architecture at Texas A & M, describes her family's experience living in China during the cultural revolution from 1966-1976. In her conversation with our host and Head of School Mr. Ty Fischer, she offers not only harrowing stories from her parents' and grandparents' lives through her home country's upheaval, but also a word of caution to us in America. Her story and observations cause us to consider the markings of cultural revolution that are popping up in the Western world today, and the importance of keeping healthy debate and discourse alive in our schools, media, and culture. View her PowerPoint with photos and quotes from Lawrence Liu's memoir Under The Scorching Sun (referenced in the podcast) here: Weiling He Cultural Revolution PowerPoint

Our previous episode of Cultivate featured several of our teachers and academic administrators talking about why we put so much stock in reading Great Books here at Veritas (we recommend you listen to it if you haven't yet!). This week, the conversation continues in a way, this time turning to our students and finding out first hand how the books they've read at school have shaped their lives and their loves. Listen as our host and Head of School Ty Fischer talks with four current Veritas 12th grade students - Rachel Jacob, Ruthie Reeser, Simon Rickert, and Christian Wenger - about their favorite books they've read here at Veritas, and other literary recommendations. Not only will you enjoy getting to know these seniors, but you may get ideas for books to read (or rediscover) yourself. For those of you who have younger students at Veritas or another classical Christian school - or for families considering classical Christian education - this episode also enlightens you to some of the "fruit" of a great books education like the one offered here. See a glimpse of what kinds of young men and women that matriculate from Veritas Academy.

This episode will have you both laughing AND making a dash for the bookshelf or library to start digging into your literature bucket list! Join this lively bunch - Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer, Principal Dr. Dan Spanjer, Dean of Humane Letters Bruce Etter, and Dean of Students Graham Dennis - as they examine how and why a Great Books education enriches the lives of students now and into adulthood. Why do classical Christian schools like Veritas spend so much time reading - not just textbooks, but novels, poetry, epics, and more? What benefit can there be for students, and for parents who choose to pick up the great works of literature that have shaped societies of bygone eras - and today? This conversation will enlighten and inspire you, and help you get to know the jovial spirits of some of the leaders of our school, who are passionate about discipline our youth and revealing God's truth through the ages and through the lens of great writers. Links to select resources and books mentioned: The Alyosha Society (adult book club led by Bruce Etter) Master and Commander by Patrick O'Brien The Collected Tales of Nikolai Gogol Flannery O'Connor: The Complete Stories The Lost World by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle George McDonald books

"Is my child going to be ready for kindergarten?" It's a concern we hear from many parents as they begin their process of enrolling their child in Veritas Academy's K-12 school. And while we understand the anxiety that can accompany your first foray into elementary school and beyond, we hope this podcast helps to put your mind at ease! Hear from our Veritas Preschool Director Meghan Lake and our two kindergarten teachers, Jackie Lake (Meghan's mom) and Laurie Conrad, on: What they look for in students when deciding if they're ready for kindergarten What parents can do to help their child get ready for kindergarten What a day in the life of a kindergartener looks like at Veritas Academy And more! This episode will not only give you some helpful insight on kindergarten readiness, but also help you get to know our early education faculty and their philosophies, styles, and priorities in teaching!

In this first episode back from our Cultivate Christmas break, we bring you a recording of a special presentation that Dr. Albert Mohler - President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Boyce College, and one of the foremost evangelical intellectuals of our time - gave to our secondary students when he was at Veritas Academy for a visit last year. In his remarks, Dr. Mohler shares his story of how he, as a youth, wrestled with the difficult questions his culture presented; his initial frustration with being unable to find thoughtful Christians who could adequately and intellectually address those questions; and, eventually, his introduction to and connection with the likes of Francis Schaffer and D. James Kennedy who helped awaken his passion for Christian thought and apologetics. His remarks will encourage parents who have invested in classical Christian education, as he points out the utmost importance for this generation of youth to be equipped with an education that trains them how to wrestle with the hard questions, to thoughtfully pursue and boldly proclaim truth, and to rightly order their affections in line with Christ's heart. Referenced in this episode: The Gathering Storm: Secularism, Culture, and the Church by Dr. Albert Mohler The Briefing: The Daily Podcast of Dr. Albert Mohler

Hear a portion of the riveting story of Luminitza Nichols - Veritas mom, pastor, and author of the book From Pain to Purpose: A Young Woman's Journey From a Communist Prison to an American Pulpit. She talks with Ty Fischer about her experience as a child and young adult in Romania during the Revolution, including her harrowing arrest just before the communist regime fell. Lumi shares not only her story, but also her heart for the Lord and how He sustained her through his word and the Church. Luminitza's testimony encourages us in America today to also stand firm in our faith and hide God's word in our hearts.  Order Luminitza's book on Amazon here As mentioned at the end of this episode, we at Veritas would like to gift a copy of Luminitza's book to the first five people who email us requesting a copy. Please email Veritas Director of Communications Kylee Bowman at kbowman@veritasacademy.com to request your copy (first five, first come, first served!). 

Our previous episode focused on helping families and students prepare for college - financially, academically, mentally, and more. And while a large majority of Veritas students do go on to get a college degree right after graduation, there are some who opt to go straight into the workforce - and they find that they thrive! This week, meet Veritas alumni Caleb Ploutz (class of '17) and Clay Martin ('18). These gentlemen opted not to go the college route but rather begin pursuing a career right out of high school, and they share not only how this decision has blessed them, but also how specifically the type of classical education they received at Veritas helped to set them up to succeed in the workforce. With all the talk of Great Books, philosophy, advanced math, and liberal arts that one may encounter in classical Christian education circles, it may be easy to think that these schools are nothing more than college prep academies, preparing kids to excel in higher learning. And while it is true that the culture and coursework at classical Christian schools like Veritas uniquely equip students to do well in college, the truth is that our goal is to educate the WHOLE person not just for college, but for life. To help them to grow in leadership and wisdom, as loving, serving, thinking people. Caleb and Clay's story illuminates just how that has played out in real life with two people who still see the benefits of their Veritas education in their lives and jobs today.

It's a daunting prospect for many families of high schoolers: the college search process. Is college the right choice for your child? What type of college will suit them best? How should they go about choosing a major? What if they don't know what career field they want to pursue? How big of a deal are standardized tests? And, of course, how will your family afford the college of your choice? So many questions and big life decisions surround this process, and our School Counselor and College Counselor Rachel Kiehl has some simple, practical, and hopefully even soothing advice for parents who are starting to think about those next steps beyond high school. Rachel talks with our Head of School Ty Fischer about common pitfalls she has seen parents and students encounter in the college and career search, answers common questions, and provides advice on how and when they can start shoring up resources for this investment. Even if you have younger children, this episode will be insightful and give you food for thought, with plans you can put into action now to save you later stress. For families with high schoolers, you will surely find this episode useful on many fronts to help you navigate the college and career search process with your child.

At Veritas Academy, we read books. We use chalkboards. We sit around tables with students and have in-depth discussions. We get our Grammar School students to retain information by moving and shouting to chants and songs. We write essays - with pencils and paper. And we require all high school students' phones to remain in their lockers for the duration of the school day. Veritas - like most classical Christian schools around the country - is decidedly a "low-tech" kind of school. Are we doing our children a disservice by sending them into a high-tech world woefully unprepared to use the latest technology? In this podcast, Head of School Ty Fischer begs this question to our guests - Graham Dennis, Veritas Dean of Students, and John Hayward, Veritas alumni, former Upper School Dean at Covenant Christian Academy in Harrisburg, and senior pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Their discussion leads to the resounding conclusion that, no, we most certainly are not impeding our children's ability to thrive in our modern world by limiting their use of technology. In fact, the opposite holds true: we are uniquely preparing them to flourish in their careers, communities, and families by cultivating virtues and skills that many of their peers may sorely be missing. Listen in to get some thoughtful perspectives, and be inspired on the benefits of a low-tech education! Resources mentioned in this podcast: Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt Competing Spectacles: Treasuring Christ in the Media Age by Tony Reinke

We're excited to launch Season Three of the Cultivate Podcast with this conversation with bestselling author and president of the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) David Goodwin, who co-authored the 2022 book Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation. This episode features enlightening insight into how modern public education as we know it has been driven by the progressive movement for centuries, how the concept of Paideia has been used to form the souls of American children, and how classical Christian schools are responding and preparing a generation to be free thinkers and citizens who represent Christ's kingdom. Opening our season with a "Battle" topic is fitting, as you will find the theme of courage running as a thread through many of our episodes this school year. Keep listening this season for conversations that challenge us to consider how we will prepare our children and their generation to be courageous in their faith and in speaking and seeking truth, beauty, and goodness.

We're on the cusp of a new school year at Veritas Academy, and "back to school" season is an appropriate time to consider what is really the point of school? Why do we and our children invest so many thousands of hours (and even dollars) into an education? Is it just so our kids can get a good job someday? To give them something to fill their hours as they grow? To make friends and learn how to function in society? Friends, a true education is about so much more than this. And we guarantee you, no matter where your child is going to school, their education is about more than just filling their minds with knowledge or preparing them for a job someday. It is, in no small part, helping to form their very souls. Take some time with us as we listen to a conversation with Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer and Dean of Students Graham Dennis as they unpack what their vision - consistent with a classical Christian vision - of what the purpose of school is in our children's lives.

This episode originally aired in October 2022 as part of our first season of Cultivate. With summer winding down, many of us parents may have a heightened awareness of way our days with our children are spent, as we seek to make the most of this time we have. This conversation may help you think differently - and even Biblically - about how to infuse your family's days with real meaning. (Original description) Time is a precious commodity in our families' lives today. Amid the rushing and the fullness of our schedules, it's so important that we consider how we can fill our days with meaningful activity - not just meaningless, utilitarian activity. In this episode Graham Dennis and Ty Fischer discuss how you can (and why you should) find ways to imbue your days with truth, beauty, and goodness, leading to a richer and even more enjoyable life in Christ.

This episode originally aired in July 2022 as part of Cultivate Season 1. We're looking forward to sharing this eye-opening, important conversation with you again this summer, to encourage strong, Godly influence and relationships with your older children. We invite author, pastor, and speaker Dr. Tedd Tripp to talk with our host Ty Fischer about how Christian parents can relate with their older children and teens. Ted's well-known book, Shepherding a Child's Heart, is often remembered for its call on parents to establish Godly, firm but loving authority with their young children, but the second part of the book covers how that relationship changes as our children mature. Ted encourages parents with older children on how to relate with their teenage kids in a way that invites influence over their lives, rather than heavy handed authority, and offers hope for those who worry they've blown it already (hint: it's not too late). Books referenced: Shepherding a Child's Heart by Dr. Ted Tripp It's Not Too Late: Restoring Broken Relationships with Teenage and Adult Children by Margy Tripp Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations by Alex & Brett Harris

This episode originally aired in June 2022 as part of Season 1 of Cultivate. For those who are new to the Cultivate podcast, or if you missed this episode, we're excited to share it again! Backyard barbecues, picnics, family reunions, impromptu gatherings - these are staple part of many of our summers. In classical Christian education, we value incorporating communal meals (we like to call them feasts!) into our school days, and there are many good reasons why your family can and should find ways to integrate regular feasting and fellowship with your friends, relatives, neighbors, church family, etc. This episode will inspire you to open your doors and tables more often, and even alleviate your frets on whether you have enough time or resources to make more gatherings happen. Katharine Savage of Philadelphia Classical Schools talks with Ty about how regular gatherings have shaped her life, family, church, and school, and give tips on why and you can make it happen in your family, too!  Keeping this rhythm can help your family grow not only relationally with one another and with those around you, but also in Christ.

This episode is a special treat for anyone who either loves classical Christian education, or is fascinated by its rise in popularity, or even someone who is just learning about this unique and wonderful movement in Christian education. Take a journey back to the very beginning of this era of classical Christian education as we know it - 40 years ago in Moscow, Idaho - with a man who has been instrumental in its founding and growing. Tom Garfield was the first headmaster of the Logos School, which itself was the first American classical Christian school and which started the avalanche of this movement spreading around the nation. A founding board member of the Association for Classical and Christian Schools, and current Dean of Academics at Veritas Press Scholars Academy, his stories and insights will give you a new appreciation for God's hand at work in classical Christian education over the years.

Looking for some summer reading inspiration for yourself or your children? Two particular 20th century authors are most beloved around the Veritas (and, Christian in general) community: C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein. This episode gives a new perspective on why these authors and their works are so enduring, influential, and simply wonderful. Listen in on a fun and insightful discussion with Mr. Paul Miller, a local pastor who also teaches 7th, 8th, and 11th grade Omnibus (humanities and Great Books) here at Veritas. Paul's love for Lewis and Tolkein is infectious as he teaches their works in 7th and 8th grade Secondary Omnibus, and this conversation will either ignite an excitement for these authors and thinkers in yourself, or rekindle your interest and inspire you to journey back to Narnia and Middle Earth or pore over Mere Christianity and Miracles. If you've ever wondered why we bring up these two Brits so often in our classes and discussions - or if you're already an ardent fan of their works - we're pretty sure you'll have great fun listening to Paul talk with our Head of School Ty Fischer about Lewis, Tolkein, and why they belong not only in a school's curriculum, but also on your family's bookshelf.

Are you weary of the way that politics has seemed to seep into every corner of our lives, including in the education of even our youngest children? Ty Fischer and Veritas Dean of Students and humanities teacher Graham Dennis talk about the valuing a “pre-political” education, and what that looks like as we seek to cultivate a generation who can discuss an array of difficult topics with confidence, respect, and clarity. The discussion dives all the way back to the Ancient origins of the word politics and meanders into the modern era, helping us to discern how we can raise today's youth to be free thinking citizens who can rise above the mud slinging of today's political ideas. Books referenced in this episode include: Dorothy Sayers - The Mind of the Maker Plato - The Republic The Writings of Justin Martyr Russel Kirk - Edmund Burke: A Genius Reconsidered Josef Pieper - Leisure: The Basis of Culture

It's graduation season, a time rife with not only excitement and anticipation, but also apprehension about next steps - for young adults stepping out into college or careers, and for their parents who look ahead to an uncertain future. 2008 Veritas Academy graduate John Hayward joins Ty Fischer this week to share his story and insight that will help assuage our stress over whether we (or our children) are truly following God's calling on our lives. Come along on his journey from being a classical Christian school teacher and administrator, to seminary, and finally to recently taking the call to ministry, and gain biblical encouragement on what our calling actually is through this conversation. John took on the role of Senior Pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg in 2022. Prior to that, he was the Upper School Dean at Covenant Christian Academy (also in Harrisburg), and also formerly served as a teacher at Veritas Academy after college. His godly perspective gives a glimpse of another facet of the lifelong fruit of classical Christian education, and wisdom for us all as we seek to make God-honoring decisions with our life's work.

She's a gifted artist and musician who is pursuing a medical degree, wrote her senior thesis on a controversial gene editing technology, loves history, and talked effortlessly about Dostoevsky on national television last year. Veritas 2022 graduate Sarah Jacob is our guest this week, and while her resume snapshot above may seem astonishing, she is one incredible example of how a classical Christian education forms well-rounded, well-equipped students. Her conversation with Mr. Fischer will give you a first-hand glimpse at the merit of a robust liberal arts education that gives students not only an impressive array of skills to serve them for a lifetime, but a vibrant appreciation for a range of subjects that help them be better citizens and disciples of God's kingdom. If you're considering what type of school you want for your child, or you're a current Veritas parent who'd like to see what the "endgame" might be for your child's education, or you're an educator considering the goal of your school, you will enjoy hearing from this delightful Veritas alum. An 18-year-old who is just as comfortable conversing about great literature and world history as she is about bioethics? That's part of what makes classical Christian school graduates so uniquely prepared not just for a career, but for life.

Our guest this episode is Dr. Robert P. "Robby" George, renowned public intellectual, legal and constitutional scholar, and McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton University, where he also founded and serves as the Director of the James Madison Program for American Ideals and Institutions. Dr. George was the commencement speaker at Veritas Academy's 2022 graduation ceremony, where he addressed the audience with a talk on Faith, Truth, and Courage. As a prominent scholar and professor whose deeply-held, faith-rooted views often run contrary to many of his peers and contemporaries in higher education, Dr. George has plenty of experience in practicing what he calls his students to do - that is, be determined truth seekers and bold truth speakers. Don't miss this chance to hear a conversation from this well-known, well-spoken thought leader, as he talks with Veritas Head of School Ty Fischer about what is needed in our society and in the coming generations if we want to see "this great experiment in morally ordered liberty and constitutional government long endure."

When did a dichotomy become assumed between academic excellence and Christian devotion? Over time, a mindset has developed that seems to tell us that these two traits can't coexist; that striving for one will compromise the other in our lives. The Veritas Dean of Math and Science, Rhonda Forbes, talks with our host Ty Fischer about why she sees these two worthwhile objectives - academic excellence and Christian devotion - in our lives as being complimentary to one another and even, in fact, informing each other. Parents should not feel like they have to choose between the two, or that by striving to cultivate one in their child's heart they will rob the other from flourishing. On the contrary, Rhonda will pull back the curtain to show you how, as a Christian, striving for academic excellence can and should deepen our wonder and love for God...and how a deep love for God can result in a desire for greater learning, knowledge of His ways and creation, and excellence in all we do. Rhonda Forbes, who was an engineer before embarking on her teaching career at Veritas years ago, teaches both upper school math and Great Books (Omnibus) courses deftly. She and her husband Scott have four grown children, all of whom graduated from Veritas Academy.

Middle schoolers love to argue. We might as well be faithful to equip them to do it well. In this episode, Veritas Logic teacher Nathaniel Stamper (who also teaches Omnibus, Apologetics, and Junior Thesis) talks with Ty Fischer about why 7th and 8th graders are ready for the challenge and joy of learning logic, how we teach them to apply logic at Veritas, and why this type of education is so important for youth in today's culture. Maybe you find yourself exasperated with the rampant disinformation presented in the civic realm today. Or, perhaps you're frustrated with seemingly endless debates with your headstrong kids. Or, you wonder whether your children will be swayed like the grass by every argument - sound or not - that presents to them as they grow and go out into the world. This podcast will help you realize the tools needed to equip youth to think critically and stand for truth.

Our host and head of school Ty Fischer sits down with longtime Veritas first and second grade teachers Sharon Strawbridge and Deb Chapin to talk about how they instill an excitement that blossoms into a lifelong love for reading into their students, and what factors are important in helping children love to read for the joy of it.

In the cycle of our core Omnibus curriculum at Veritas, middle and high schoolers get plenty of exposure to the original texts of the great ancient writer and thinks - Plato, Aristotle, Livy, Herodotus, Theucydides and more. In an age where ideas and fads come and go and things are considered outdated within less than a year's (or a month's!) span, how is it valuable for our youth to read, examine, and even enjoy the works of people who have been dead for thousands of years. It is valuable - immensely so, as a matter of fact. Our host Ty Fischer is joined by Veritas Omnibus teachers Graham Dennis (Dean of Students) and Bruce Etter (Dean of Humane Letters) to walk us through the specific and compelling reasons why this generation of youth benefit from reading "dead people." It may make you want to go pick up and peruse a copy of Plato's Republic or The Odyssey, too!

David Bahnsen - portfolio manager, author, television commentator, and host of the Dividend Cafe podcast - joins our host Ty Fischer to talk about how we can and should view economics in light of God's plan and glory, and why work is something we should lead our children toward embracing as they live their lives as image bearers of a creative, productive God. The son of the late theologian Greg Bahnsen, David approaches the topic of economics from a unique and biblical perspective that will help you understand today's issues with a new, godly mindset. Find more about David at the links below: Bahnsen.com The Dividend Cafe Podcast The Bahnsen Group Investment Firm and Financial Planners There's No Free Lunch: 250 Economic Truths (David's most recent book)

Our Season 2 Pilot Episode is a live recording from this past weekend's Launch Party, which featured a panel discussion with some of our guests who are joining us this upcoming season. Listen in to hear: A reveal of our exciting and diverse season two episodes Insightful and entertaining discussions on why we read "dead people," why education should help students grow to not be "one-topic people," why Tolkein and Lewis are so wonderful, what it means to value the "pre-political," and more A clip about courage and truth from of one of our most anticipated episodes for this season featuring renowned legal scholar Dr. Robert P. "Robby" George A conversation about what it means to cultivate a "well-educated citizen" through education Panelists include: Ty Fischer, Cultivate host and Veritas Head of School Graham Dennis, Cultivate co-host and Veritas Dean of Students Dan Spanjer, Veritas Principal Rhonda Forbes, Veritas Dean of Math and Science Leslie Bustard, author and vice president of Square Halo Books

Leslie Bustard, our previous episode's guest, shares three of her favorite poems with us, each unique in its own wonderful way. Take a moment to indulge in a little poetry today with Leslie and Ty, and allow these works to help you see the world (and the Lord) with fresh eyes. If you enjoyed this episode and our previous interview with Leslie on loving poetry, you'll enjoy Square Halo Books' upcoming conference Ordinary Saints - Creativity, Collaboration, and Community coming up on February 17-18, 2023 at the Trust Performing Arts Center in Lancaster. Veritas Academy is a sponsor of this event, which promises to be an enjoyable and inspiring time! Poems in this episode: Luci Shaw, The Meaning of Grass (From The Generosity) Seamus Heany, Postscript (From 100 Poems) Malcolm Guite, The Church's Banquet (From After Prayer) Also referenced: Malcolm Guite, Sounding the Seasons *** About Our Guest Leslie Anne Bustard lives in a century-old row home in Lancaster City with her husband Ned and her two dogs, Pevensie and Milly-Molly-Mandy. They are the parents of three grown daughters. After years of homeschooling, classroom teaching, and producing high school and children's theater, Leslie now fills her time writing and caring for loved ones. Her most perfect day would be walking somewhere in Northern Ireland where she could, in one day, traverse with Ned over green fields and farmers' lanes, through breeze-kissed woods, and over rocks and sandy beaches. Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children, co-edited with daughter Carey and friend Théa Rosenburg, was published through Square Halo Books in April 2022. Her second book The Goodness of the Lord in the Land of Living: Selected Poems will be published in 2023. As vice president of Square Halo, Leslie has developed and hosted their podcast series The Square Halo, as well as planned their conferences. Leslie is a contributor at The Black Barn Online, Story Warren, Anselm Society, and Calla Press. She also shares on her website PoeticUnderpinnings.com.

In this bonus episode of Cultivate, longtime Veritas friend and guest Leslie Bustard shares with us her passion for poetry and inspires listeners to explore poetry as a way to "help us remember that which would impoverish us to forget." If you enjoyed this episode, you will love the upcoming Ordinary Saints Conference, February 17-18, produced by Square Halo Books (of which Leslie is Vice President). Veritas Academy is a sponsor of this event, which features a keynote address by poet Malcolm Guite, concert by The Arcadian Wild, and more. More information here. About Our Guest Leslie Anne Bustard lives in a century-old row home in Lancaster City with her husband Ned and her two dogs, Pevensie and Milly-Molly-Mandy. They are the parents of three grown daughters. After years of homeschooling, classroom teaching, and producing high school and children's theater, Leslie now fills her time writing and caring for loved ones. Her most perfect day would be walking somewhere in Northern Ireland where she could, in one day, traverse with Ned over green fields and farmers' lanes, through breeze-kissed woods, and over rocks and sandy beaches. Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children, co-edited with daughter Carey and friend Théa Rosenburg, was published through Square Halo Books in April 2022. Her second book The Goodness of the Lord in the Land of Living: Selected Poems will be published in 2023. As vice president of Square Halo, Leslie has developed and hosted their podcast series The Square Halo, as well as planned their conferences. Leslie is a contributor at The Black Barn Online, Story Warren, Anselm Society, and Calla Press. She also shares on her website PoeticUnderpinnings.com. RESOURCES & LINKS Poets & Books Mentioned In This Episode: Dana Gioia Luci Shaw Sing a Song of Popcorn, Book of poems for children Aaron Belz Nikki Grimes Naomi Shihab Nye Billy Collins Malcolm Guite Sounding the Seasons, book by Malcolm Guite Further Reading: Two-part essay by Leslie on incorporating poetry in your family's everyday life: Part 1 Part 2 Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children is an excellent resource for parents