The NorthStar Narrative

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.

Leadership coach Audrey Boydston shares how intentional collaboration and clear purpose transform teams, drawing from her 25 years of experience across corporate and educational settings.• Moving beyond processes to focus on people and helping them do their best work• Establishing clear purpose, mission, and values for any successful team• Sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it to empower the entire team• Creating supportive communities that help members regain momentum when they lose it• Using running and physical activity as tools for creative problem solving• Reframing "you are enough" to "you are more than enough" to tap into untapped potential

Stephen Carter shares how entrepreneurial education is transforming Christian schools by developing critical skills and purpose-driven mindsets in students. What started as a simple coffee cart has grown into a nationwide movement helping students discover their unique calling through entrepreneurial thinking and real-world application.• Entrepreneurship defined as "taking a risk to create something new for the good of others"• Most in-demand skills from employers: proactive problem-solving, collaboration, communication• Parents can foster entrepreneurial mindset by praising effort over talent• Focus on seeing work as kingdom-building, restoring broken bonds• Entrepreneurial mindset shifts students from consumption to creation• Start small with minimum viable products and improve as you goLearn more at SeedtreeGroup.com.

Dr. Seana Sundermeyer shares her expertise about Advanced Placement and dual credit courses, explaining the differences between these options and offering guidance on how students can choose the right path for their academic journey.• AP courses align with College Board standards and prepare students for both the AP exam and university-level work• Dual credit courses are approved by Colorado Christian University and allow students to earn college credits while in high school• Students should consider limiting themselves to one or two advanced courses at a time due to the increased rigor and time commitment• Important to research which credits will transfer to prospective universities before choosing courses• AP exam preparation should include completing the full course, utilizing practice exams, and maintaining personal well-being• The community of teachers and staff are available to support students pursuing academic excellence

Stephanie welcomes her 9-year-old son Holton to share his basketball journey and the unexpected life lessons from his recent concussion.• Holton's basketball passion and why he'd choose to play against Steph Curry• His dream basketball move involves a behind-the-back crossover into a reverse layup• The story of Holton's concussion during a church league game• How sitting out his final game taught him valuable lessons about patience and recovery• Holton's advice to other injured kids: "If you sit out one game, you can play sports for the rest of your life"

A heartfelt conversation unfolds as Michaela and Riley share insights from their roles on the NorthStar Academy Student Council. They discuss leadership, community, and the importance of connection within their online academy.• Michaela and Riley introduce themselves, sharing their backgrounds and hobbies • Overview of their student council roles and responsibilities • Insights into how collaboration shapes their leadership experiences • Discussion on effective communication and the importance of kindness • Reflections on building a vibrant community in an online environment • Encouragement for non-student council members to engage and lead in their own way

Cody Johnson's journey from student at NorthStar Academy to aspiring diplomat is a testament of faith, adaptability, and the importance of lifelong learning. Through personal stories of travel and growth, he emphasizes embracing opportunities, learning from diverse cultures, and the necessity of self-awareness in achieving one's calling. • Embracing faith while navigating uncertainty • The transformative experience of hitchhiking on a volcano • NorthStar Academy's influence on cultural understanding • Leadership lessons learned through student governance • The significance of adaptability in shaping career goals 

Karen Keagy shares her journey from growing up in the Amazon jungle to becoming a grandmother, highlighting divine encounters and the importance of family legacy. Her stories of adventure, missionary work, and faith inspire listeners to embrace God's calling on their lives.

Zoe and Rachel, club coordinators at NorthStar Academy, share their experiences of building community within an online educational environment. They emphasize the importance of connection, leadership, and fostering a sense of belonging through diverse clubs, illustrating how these initiatives create meaningful relationships among students. • Discussion on their personal experiences at NorthStar • Importance of online community and global connections • Overview of club coordinators' responsibilities • Types of clubs and their impact on student life • Insights into leadership and teamwork in coordination roles • The significance of fostering a sense of belonging • Encouragement for students to reach out and join communities

Join us as we delve into the heart of NorthStar Academy's community, where Addie and Maia explore their role in student leadership. Listen as they discuss the challenges of communicating in an online school setting and the invaluable lessons learned from embracing diverse perspectives. The joy of collaboration and the fulfillment of helping peers succeed emerge as powerful motivators, painting a vivid picture of what it means to be a student leader at NorthStar Academy. Their experiences are a testament to the enriching opportunities offered by online education, where they manage to balance leadership, collaboration, and personal growth. 

Embracing gratitude can transform how we navigate life's hardships. Join us as we chat with Tina Tandy on her retirement and discuss the power of thankfulness during tough times. Listen as Tina and Stephanie share heartfelt reflections that inspire us to maintain our faith and embrace a broader perspective, finding peace and joy amidst the trials. With Thanksgiving around the corner, it's the perfect moment to appreciate the community and the warmth it brings, even when life feels overwhelming.

Step into the vibrant world of student leadership with NorthStar Academy's own Isabelle Phillips and Hallie Griffin, whose remarkable stories promise to inspire and educate. Join us as Isabelle, the Student Council content creator, and Hallie, the ad coordinator, share their unique experiences from an international online school setting. They offer a window into how they balance an array of responsibilities—from student council duties to personal passions like Isabelle's emerging cookie business—while forming meaningful connections with peers across diverse cultures. This episode is packed with valuable insights into how these experiences have shaped their understanding of the world and honed their leadership skills.

We are excited to have Kristi Steele back on today! Kristi brings nearly a decade of experience to the table around college admissions. Discover how she has demystified the scholarship process in her course, "Unlock the Secrets to Scholarships for College," tailored for families navigating the intricate financial maze of higher education. Listen as Kristi shares invaluable tips on treating scholarship applications like pivotal investments, encouraging even modest daily efforts for substantial financial returns. Learn more about Kristi's course here!

Rihanna Ring-Howell returns to our podcast, bringing with her a treasure trove of experiences and insights from her journey through writing and life transitions. Graduating from the Author Conservatory in 2024, Rihanna has honed her craft in fiction writing and business, culminating in the publication of her short story in the anthology "Voices of the Future." Hear firsthand how Rihanna's unique experiences have shaped her and her creative process, offering both challenges and rewards.As Rihanna shares her journey, there's a strong emphasis on the importance of intentionality in building connections and the creative fuel these relationships provide. Her experiences offer valuable insights into maintaining authenticity in a world that often pressures conformity. Join us as we celebrate the triumphs and lessons learned along the writing journey, and discover how a community that uplifts can make all the difference in both personal and professional growth.

What does it take to navigate a career change during a global pandemic? Mackenzie Reynolds shares her story of resilience, faith, and divine timing as she transitioned through different jobs and countries. Imagine moving from the comfort of the Southern United States to the high-altitude challenges of La Paz, Bolivia. Mackenzie recounts the hurdles she faced, from severe altitude sickness to language barriers, and how the warmth and hospitality of the Bolivian people mirrored the comforting familiarity of her Southern roots. Her family's journey underscores the crucial roles that faith and community play in overcoming life's most significant transitions, highlighting key moments of emotional relief and divine faithfulness.Upon returning to NorthStar Academy, Mackenzie utilized her skills to assist families and schools with blended learning. Listen in for her reflections on the awe-inspiring ways God prepares and positions us to serve, the global impact of North Star, and advice for students navigating significant life changes.

Can an online school truly foster deep, meaningful connections? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Tiana and Nathan, two of NSA's Student Council, as they share their inspiring journey of building a welcoming online community. Drawing from their rich experiences in England and the Middle East, they unveil innovative strategies like hosting virtual calls and assigning committee members to virtual school buildings on Microsoft Teams. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into how they've successfully created an engaging environment that nurtures lasting friendships and valuable leadership opportunities.

Join us for an uplifting episode as Allen Hester, our Spiritual Life Director, hosts another episode to dive into the essence of our core values and how they influence our decisions and unify our community. You'll hear personal stories, laughter, and heartfelt expressions of gratitude that showcase the dedication of our faculty and staff to fostering both spiritual and academic growth. Discover why knowing our 'why'—serving an incredible God—is central to our mission and how it enriches our students' lives. In this episode, we also spotlight the vibrant and collaborative culture that sets NorthStar Academy apart from typical online schools. Explore the dynamic student council, diverse clubs, live classes, and mission trips that create a truly engaging community. Parents are not left out, with dedicated communication channels and live meetups enhancing their involvement. 

Transitions are a natural part of life, but how do we navigate them with grace and faith? In this episode of the NorthStar Narrative, our Spiritual Life Director, Allen Hester, steps into the interviewer's role to chat with Stephanie Shafer about the multifaceted experience of transitions. Stephanie candidly shares her personal experiences with change, touching on the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it—from fear and uncertainty to excitement and growth. She offers a heartfelt reflection on how embracing transitions is integral to God's larger plan, especially in the context of the recent changes at NorthStar Academy.We also delve into the emotional and spiritual dimensions of life's transitions, highlighting the importance of being honest with God about our feelings of grief, guilt, and shame, and the healing that comes through surrender. Stephanie provides practical advice for those in the midst of both sudden and planned changes, underscoring the power of community support and simply being present with others in their time of need.

Simplify the world of AI with our guests, Merissa Sadler-Holder and Ephraim Lerner! Learn the key differences between traditional AI and generative AI such as ChatGPT, and understand why this technology is becoming more accessible and relevant for everyone, regardless of technical expertise.We discuss the importance of being aware of how our data is used and the need for opting out of data sharing when necessary. Special attention is given to educating children about data privacy, especially with AI tools integrated into common apps, to ensure responsible usage and understanding.Finally, explore the transformative impact of AI across various industries, from healthcare to education. Learn about the critical need for future generations to develop AI skills. We also highlight the importance of familiarizing oneself with AI tools to support personal development and innovation. Packed with valuable insights, this episode is an essential listen for anyone interested in the future of AI and its societal impact.

Join us as we reflect on NorthStar Academy's sixth in-person graduation celebration! Jessica, who manages the event logistics, shares her behind-the-scenes experiences and the profound sense of community these gatherings cultivate. Graduation weekend is not just a ceremony for our graduates. It is a weekend packed with engaging activities, from lunch and games to a special worship and commissioning time. We even had a prom-like graduation party that added an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie this year. We shine a light on the unwavering dedication of NorthStar's faculty and staff, whose efforts make these memorable events possible, and then wrap up with heartfelt gratitude for the teamwork and enthusiasm that breathe life into NorthStar's mission. Don't miss out on this heartwarming episode celebrating the resilience and spirit of our amazing students and staff.

Can one decision shape the course of your life and career? Join us as we sit down with Efraim Lerner, an extraordinary visionary who has navigated the dynamic worlds of education and technology. From his formative years in Victoria, Australia, to his current life in London, Efraim's journey offers a profound look at how cultural contrasts and personal choices can drive growth and inspire change. These experiences ignited his passion for education, compelling him to advocate for better training and support for educators. Efraim's insights into how technology can empower both students and teachers are a testament to his belief that meaningful connections and high-quality education go hand in hand.

Ever wondered how the convergence of storytelling and business skills can revolutionize a writer's journey? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Caleb Renich, a NorthStar Academy alumnus and current student at the Author Conservatory! Caleb shares his post-graduation journey, diving deep into the unique dual focus of his program, which hones storytelling craft while equipping writers with essential business acumen. The strong sense of community, mentorship, and collaborative environment at the Conservatory are vividly brought to life, highlighting the dedication of instructors and the invaluable support among peers. Learn about the perseverance and commitment necessary to succeed as a writer, as Caleb recounts his childhood storytelling inspirations and emphasizes the importance of hard work and persistence. We also explore Caleb's comprehensive nine-week essay writing course, which meticulously guides students from idea inception to the final draft. Caleb's passion for teaching shines through as he shares his methodology, including lectures, hands-on assignments, and peer review sessions. Students leave the course not only with a polished essay but with newfound confidence in their writing abilities. 

What if the future of education could be transformed by the power of AI? Join us as we sit down with Merissa Sadler-Holder, the recipient of ASU+GSV's 2024 Leading Woman in AI title and visionary founder of Teaching with Machines. Listen as Merissa passionately discusses the importance of collective learning and how she equips educators with the resources they need to harness AI for both their professional growth and their students' success. We also touch on the hot topic of academic integrity and the evolving landscape of cheating in the AI era.As we look ahead to the 24-25 school year, we provide valuable insights for teachers and curriculum writers on how to smoothly incorporate AI into educational settings. Merissa underscores the importance of starting with just one AI tool to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Wrapping up, we celebrate the transformative potential of AI literacy, collaborative learning, and professional development! You'll love this episode packed full of wisdom! 

We sat down with Justin Ardrey this week to talk all things marketing and communications. Justin is a Swiss Army knife of design and creative strategy with a background in marketing, communication, videography, and project management. This story is truly one where marketing and ministry collide. Listen and be inspired!Learn more about Justin here!

Psychiatrist, speaker, and author Curt Thompson has a heart for people, and that shines through in this week's episode! Join us as we cover many topics, from laughter to relationships, to simply being known. Hear practical advice and gain valuable resources to help these areas of your life- let's start with laughter!Resources:Book: The Soul of Shame: Retelling the Stories We Believe About OurselvesBook: Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practice That Can Transform Your Life and RelationshipsBook: The Soul of Desire: Discovering the Neuroscience of Longing, Beauty, and CommunityBook: The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of HopePodcast: Being Known Podcast

Steve Richardson was raised in Indonesia, where his parents planted churches in a jungle tribe. He witnessed the impact of the gospel on their war-like society, a story documented in his father's missionary classic, Peace Child. Listen today as Steve gives more insight to how his parents were able to use the concept of a peace child to reveal the gospel to an unreached people group. Steve also shares advice for those thinking about going on the mission field using his experience as a child as well as his role as the President of Pioneers-USA, a growing international mission movement impacting more than 500 unreached people groups with the gospel! Don't miss this powerful story!More resources:Click here to hear Steve's full story!Don Richardson's Book: Peace ChildSteve's Book: Is The Commission Still Great?Peace Child Short Video

We loved this conversation with Amy Roberts, a large family homeschool mom and homemaker! Amy offers encouragement and resources via her popular blog, podcast, and YouTube channel, Raising Arrows! If you are looking for practical advice on how to keep things simple in your family, this episode is for you! Hear more from Amy at raisingarrows.net!

The college admission season in a student's life can be full of anxiety. Join us today as  Kristi Steele talks through what the process looks like and how to ease the confusion and tension surrounding the best next step. Kristi provides excellent practical advice with great questions to ask yourself, whether you're a student or parent. If you have a high schooler, you won't want to miss this episode! You can find more resources from Kristi at www.kc360.co!  

We are excited to have Jennifer Thompson on the show today. From basketball coach to teacher to head of school, Jennifer has almost 25 years of experience in education. Listen as Jennifer shares advice for teachers and leaders, and hear the work that she is doing as the current Chief Operating Officer of Christian Schools International. You won't want to miss the practical advice she has for both educators and school leadership!

“The estimates are that about 32 million American children lack access to books.”Join us today for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Molly Ness. Molly is a former classroom teacher, a reading researcher, and a teacher educator. Listen as Molly discusses the importance of reading and practical ways we can ensure that books are in the hands of every child possible. 

We are so excited to have the King Family on this week's episode! Breanne King and her son Shouta join us today to talk through life, ministry, and the years they've been a part of the NorthStar community. Having four students who have either graduated or are still taking classes at NSA, Breanne shares how even though they had different motivations and ways of learning, NSA met the needs for each of them.  Hear about the exciting ministry opportunities they have for those looking to serve in the Philippines and the incredible story that has led them there. You won't want to miss this inspiring story from the King family!

Sammy Margo, renowned physiotherapist and sleep expert, shares crucial insights for achieving quality sleep in this episode of The NorthStar Narrative. She begins by highlighting the impact of technology on sleep, advocating for a technology cutoff time and promoting a calming bedtime routine. The discussion extends to bedding preferences, emphasizing the significance of investing in a suitable mattress and pillow based on individual needs. Exercise is encouraged, with a focus on calming practices like deep breathing and gentle yoga.Sammy shares a success story involving a child with anxiety, demonstrating the positive outcomes of changes in technology use and bedtime routines. Regarding sleep aids, she suggests exploring natural remedies before considering over-the-counter options. The podcast concludes with a challenge for parents to set positive examples by practicing healthy sleep habits and encouraging children to adopt similar routines.Don't miss this informative episode!

We are so excited to have one of our NorthStar families on today's episode! Anna, who is a Senior and graduates in just a few short months, joins her mom Christine to recount their incredible RV experience and how they were able to blend adventure with education. Listen as Anna and Christine take us through their travels across the U.S., where they explored colleges while navigating the intricacies of homeschooling not only Anna, but also brother Zach!

Why do we educate, and are we sure we're doing it right?Deani Van Pelt is many things, but first, she is a mother. When her own daughter was very young, she realized quickly that many questions needed to be answered surrounding education. Enter Charlotte Mason education. Charlotte Mason was a pioneer in shifting the way students were viewed and therefore taught. Deani has devoted her life to taking that foundation and making education better for children all over the world. Listen as Deani shares her passion for ensuring excellent education for the next generation of learners. 

NorthStar recently hosted a mission trip to the country of Panama! Listen as Mr. Hester along with students Rachel, Melissa, and Emma recap the trip and the life changing impact it had on them and the community they served. Hear the fears and challenges they faced head on as they met in person for the first time, bonded as a team, and learned how to trust God in a new way. Growth is definitely the theme in this story and we couldn't be prouder of "The NorthStar Nine."

We have one of our very own on the show today! Diana Clay teaches elementary through high school Spanish here at NorthStar and joins us to share her inspiring story. Diana and her husband are the founders of COAH Missions, which focuses on equipping and providing opportunities for followers of Jesus to be on mission together in their local context and internationally.  Currently, Diana lives in the Dominican Republic where her family is able to minister to Haitian refugees. Listen as she shares how God has prepared her for every season of life before she ever knew she needed it. 

We are thrilled to have Lynn Swaner on the show today! Lynn is a Senior Fellow with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) as well as the newly appointed President of Cardus U.S., where she will work to grow their education portfolio and provide strategic support for Comment, the  organization's flagship journal. Lynn is passionate about education and connecting research with practice to create a real world impact. Listen as Lynn explains the importance of relationships in our efforts to make school environments flourish.

We are so excited to have course author and teacher Larry Jones on today's episode! Larry joins us to discuss NorthStar's new Astronomy course! Hear what went into creating the course and the new technology that was incorporated. Interested in taking Astronomy at NorthStar? Enroll now to begin as soon as January 2nd! 

We are excited to have NorthStar Principal, Katie Ahmadzai on the show today! Listen as Katie discusses NorthStar's professional development plan for our teachers, specifically surrounding a PLC, or professional learning community. Lifelong learning is not only a desire we have for our students, but also the faculty and staff at NorthStar. Be encouraged as you hear the ways we intentionally grow together as a community of learners!

We are so excited to have David Joannes on the show today! David is the founder and CEO of Within Reach Global! Within Reach Global exists to reach unreached people groups in the 10/40 Window with the gospel of Christ. Their four central focuses are compassion ministries, evangelism, discipleship, and church planting, with the goal of raising indigenous leaders to reach their own people. Each year, NorthStar Academy hosts a fundraiser called The Blessing Project to support a designated organization or cause, and this year, we are partnering with Within Reach Global to reach the unreached.  This year's theme is “REACH” and our scripture is Romans 10:14-15. Our goal is to raise $6,000 by January 12th. Would you help us? Simply click here to donate and be sure to share with your friends and family! We are so excited to serve in this way and can't wait to see how God works through our giving. 

What is a testimony? How do you share it? Are you ready to? Listen as Stephanie answers these questions and shares her story with you today! Don't forget to comment, leave reviews, and spread this podcast with your friends!

Stephanie is back this week to share even more of what God is revealing in this season. Last week, we introduced the thought of being present, being curious, and listening well, but what does that look like practically? Listen as Stephanie breaks down ways you can accomplish each of those goals. This episode is full of great wisdom and things you can do today to be closer to God.

Join us today as we hear from podcast host and NSA Director, Stephanie Shafer. Listen as she shares what God has revealed to her recently. Whether you are struggling right now or in a great place, this episode is packed full of encouragement in how to take the right next step! 

After 200 episodes of The NorthStar Narrative, we want to hear from you! Has this podcast impacted you? Have you learned something, or taken practical steps to better you your own life? Have you experienced God's grace and truth? If so, we want to know! Do you know someone who has a story to share? We would LOVE to have them on to share their story! Email us at podcast@nsa.school to share your feedback!

We are so grateful to have Michelle Wigginton on today's episode! Michelle is the Business Administrator here at NorthStar! Like many people, Michelle is an introvert. Listen as she shares how God has used her throughout her life to make meaningful connections with those around her, even if it sometimes means she has to step outside of her comfort zone!

"The commitment to care and to presence and to listening no matter what is often what speaks the most ministry to people."Join us today as we talk with Rev. Dr. Jonathan C. Lewis. His role as a chaplain has given him a lot of experience being present with people and listening well. Be inspired as Jonathan shares the wisdom he's gained in his position!

We are so excited to have our student council leadership team on the podcast this week! Listen as Cora, Lydia, and Maia share their journey's in leadership and hear what they have planned for the student body this year! 

We are thankful to have Dr. Bryan McGraw on the show today. Bryan is Dean of Social Sciences and Education and Director of the Aequitas Fellows Program, as well as an Associate Professor of Politics and International Relations at Wheaton College. Bryan is passionate about helping students become more thoughtful and serious about how they relate their Christian faith to the world of politics. Listen as Bryan discusses his thoughts around tough questions related to faith and politics that many people wrestle with each day. Be challenged today as you listen!

We are so excited to have NSA Alumni Marie Suazo on today's episode! Marie graduated from NorthStar in 2010! Listen as she reminisces on her memories of NSA and why online school worked for her as a diplomat's daughter. As a third culture kid, Marie found that she couldn't quite describe what it was like to grow up in her shoes, but since high school, Marie has found the outlets to share her story through authoring and podcasting. Enjoy this story of hope and healing!

We are thrilled to have Courtney Janney on today's episode! Courtney is the Chief Zoological Officer at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, TN. She recently had the privilege of flying to China with YaYa, the giant panda that lived at the Memphis Zoo for over 20 years.  Courtney is passionate about the role zoos play in connecting people with wildlife and raising awareness in conservation. Memphis Zoo is well known for it's work in conservation and animal care. Don't miss this fun and educational episode! 

These are questions we've asked many times before:  What is rest, and what does it look like to rest in God? Join us for this second episode with Danny Coyle as we dive even deeper into the topic of rest! Hear what Danny's journey looked like as he navigated what rest was going to look like for his family in the midst of all the things they have going on in life. Gain invaluable wisdom and practical steps that you can take to find genuine rest.