Jeff Walton, Mike Phillips, & Andrew Fry | Ep. 137

School Choice: Perspectives from a National, State, and School Level Part 2

Show Notes:

In Part Two of this conversation on school choice, Jenny and our three expert guests dive deeper into the practical realities of implementing and managing school choice programs in Christian schools.

From operational changes to wish lists for improvement, this episode reveals the behind-the-scenes work required to successfully navigate school choice while maintaining Christian mission and identity. You'll hear about the administrative burden that comes with public funding, including full-time compliance officers, detailed state reporting, and expanded testing requirements.

These leaders share success stories of teacher salaries approaching 75% of public school levels, schools paying off buildings entirely with choice funds, and churches freed from facility costs to invest in ministry expansion.

The conversation explores the ideal models for school choice, with insights into why ESA (Education Savings Account) programs may be preferable to voucher systems, and what the future holds for educational freedom at both state and federal levels.

Whether your school is already participating in choice programs, considering participation, or simply wanting to understand where Christian education is headed, this episode provides practical wisdom from leaders who've successfully navigated these waters while maintaining their biblical mission.

You'll also gain insights into what's coming next, including potential federal expansion of school choice and how Christian schools can prepare for continued growth and opportunity in the educational freedom movement.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you.

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guests:

Jeff Walton, Mike Phillips, & Andrew Fry

Andrew Fry is the principal of Colonial Christian School in Indianapolis, Indiana. He earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering and a master of arts in teaching in mathematics. With 12 years of experience in teaching and school leadership, Andrew is passionate about fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth in Christian education. He and his wife, Janna, have three children.

Dr. Michael Phillips holds undergraduate degrees in Bible and mathematics education. He also holds a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in educational leadership. He served in Christian schools in Virginia and North Carolina as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and administrator for 25years before the Lord called him to Bay City Christian School in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In addition to his school responsibilities, Dr. Phillips is the executive director and accreditation chair for the Wisconsin Association of Christian Schools. He and his wife, Shellee, have four children.

Dr. Jeff Walton, executive director of AACS, holds a bachelor of science degree in education, a master of education degree, and a doctor of divinity degree. He has served in Christian education as a teacher, school administrator, state association director, and Bible college administrator. Through his work with AACS and other organizations, he has been influential in securing policies and legislation to protect the ministries of Christian schools. He has presented professional development workshops for Christian school teachers at many state and national conferences in the U.S. and at conferences in Romania and South Korea. His wife, Judylynn, also serves with him at AACS, and together they are very involved in local church ministry as well.

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