Trigger warning: In discussing campus security, there is a mention of guns in this program Episode 004: School Safety and Security Everybody values a safe and secure school environment, especially with all that’s going on in the world today. Today, Tom and Kelly interview Mr. Ray Hernandez who is Community Christian School’s 7th grade Bible teacher and Director of Security. Mr. Hernandez holds a Masters of Divinity from Liberty University. He’s also a retired combat veteran and a retired federal law enforcement special agent. Listen as he assures us that ultimate safety and security is with the Lord.

Episode 005: Teen Dating and Safe Relationships February is teen dating violence awareness month, however, conversations about heathy boundaries need to happen long before the teenage years. In this episode, Mrs. Nicole Whitaker will help parents learn how to protect their children from unhealthy and unsafe relationships. Mrs. Whitaker is an Attorney and Executive Director of Christians Against Trafficking. **Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion about human trafficking and child predators.

Episode 006: The Necessity of Hope Today, Tom and Kelly recap insights from their recent guests and discuss how wise preparation and an active relationship with Christ provides a firm foundation to stand on and an unfailing source of hope in a challenging and broken world.

CCS Alumni: Standing for Jesus in the Real World CCS loves our Alumni! Today Tom interviews Kim Johnson, CCS Alumni Coordinator and Hannah Osterbye, a CCS Alumni. Listen to learn how Kim is working to reconnect Alumni like Hannah with her classmates, and hear Hannah’s unique perspective on how she flourishes as a Jesus follower in this difficult and challenging world. **Link to “Broken Tip Jar” podcast mention in this episode: https://open.spotify.com/show/3RhH1brky7BbJOQLC98X5p?si=qk21o1tSRzWaARa2vD342w

CCS is strategic in developing the minds of our students. Today Tom and Kelly review what was learned from episode 07 (CCS Alumni: Standing for Jesus in the Real World) and uncover the purposeful process that CCS uses to produce thinking Christians.

Today Tom and Kelly welcome back Mrs. Anna Nelson, CCS event coordinator and school nurse and a passionate advocate for mental and emotional health. In this episode, we discuss the post-COVID rise in anxiety and other mental health issues, especially among students, and explore the effects of suffering on learning. Anna introduces us to the Biblical value of "lament", sharing how personal professional experiences have shaped her engagement with this ancient Biblical practice.

Episode 10 Parenting Beyond Fear and Anxiety Today Tom and Kelly will talk with Dr. Nari Jeter, PhD in Marriage and Family therapy. Dr. Jeter will discuss the normalcy of fear and anxiety throughout parenting. She will also share with us what individuals and couples can do to manage these feelings and discover that, ultimately, there is no perfect parent. Thankfully, we serve a perfect Father who allows us to grow in this process.

https://youtu.be/2OL70WLPLB0

Episode 12: Whenever, Wherever, Whatever Today Tom and Kelly interview Rev. Jeff Collier, CCS Chaplain and Director of the Leadership Program. They discuss why CCS has a Leadership program and its challenges and benefits. From its formation, CCS High School has been training students to answer the call of God, whenever it comes, wherever it leads, and whatever the cost.

pisode 13 GCE for the Little Ones Today Tom and Kelly welcome Mrs. Sabrina Grubbs; Community Christian School’s Elementary principal. Mrs. Grubbs, explains how CCS Elementary approaches gospel centered education to young students. She gives valuable examples of how CCS incorporates the gospel in developmentally appropriate ways while integrating God’s truths into everyday learning.

Episode 14: Academic Rigor and Innovation in GCE Today Tom and Kelly interview Dr. Joshua Eller, secondary principal of Community Christian School in Tallahassee. Dr. Eller explains how using innovative techniques such as experiential learning can contribute to a rigorous learning environment. He also shares how the emotional health of teachers and students can play a role in overall learning.

Episode 15: Gospel Centered Summer Today, Tom and Kelly discuss the challenges parents have in keeping their children mentally and spiritually engaged during the summer months. Join them as they unpack summer related issues and useful practices that can be beneficial to students.

Episode 16: Christ Centered Traditions Today, Kelly interviews Mrs. Ashley Gaskins, Community Christian School’s 4th grade teacher and educator of 16 years. Mrs. Gaskins explains the impact that Christ centered traditions have on gospel centered education. She also shares some old and new traditions that she has been involved in creating.

Today, Tom and Kelly welcome Pastor Josh Hughes of Four Oaks Community Church East in Tallahassee, FL. Pastor Hughes helps lead the discussion on how church and school can complement each other, leading students with all abilities into a real relationship with Christ.

Episode 18: Letour Today’s episode is our Season 1 finale! Tom and Kelly welcome Mrs. Hillary Underwood, Creative Arts Director for Community Christian School in Tallahassee, FL and Ms. Madelyn Brannon, a recent graduate and longtime student of CCS’s arts program. Mrs. Underwood and Ms. Brannon share how the LeTour multi arts ensemble is using the arts to bridge into the world with a gospel centered perspective.

GCE Season 2 - Episode 1 Cultivating a Heart of Worship in Children: Today, Tom and Kelly welcome Mrs. Donna Berlinghoff, Community Christian School’s Elementary Music and Chapel teacher. Mrs. Berlinghoff shares how she creates an atmosphere of worship for Elementary students allowing them to praise the Lord even in the face of life’s uncertainty.

Technology and Your Child Today, Tom and Kelly are joined by our own Vance Rutherford, CCS’s Technology Director and GCE podcast producer. Mr. Rutherford explains how the use of technology can enhance learning at home and in the classroom, as well as some of the positive and negative aspects of its use. Tom and Kelly also share what they learned from the book “Parent Differently” by Kathy Koch, and how the development of Biblical character can help children and adults successfully navigate technology and the culture as a whole.

A Look Into the Book “Screens and Teens” by Kathy Koch Today, Tom and Kelly discuss their key takeaways from the book “Screens and Teens” by Kathy Koch. In the words of Mrs. Koch “Technology isn’t good or bad, but the use of it can be either.” Parents are the navigators of their family’s journey through the ever changing world of tech. Ultimately, a relationship with your child is key, requiring an investment of time, energy, truth-teaching, listening and prayer.

Season 2 Episode 4 Cyber Security and Kids Today, Tom and Kelly talk about the importance of protecting children and devices from internet threats. During this episode, they discuss talking points gathered from CCS’s Technology and Kids Q&A that featured Special Agent Noah Pratts from FDLE’s Cyber Crimes Unit. Also, mentioned are upcoming live events that our listeners are invited to attend! Follow us on social media for more information:

S2 Ep5 GCE Emotional Health and Students Event In this episode, Tom and Kelly welcome a panel of experts in the field of emotional health in children and teenagers. Listen as panelists discuss what they feel are the common roots of emotional health issues and a wide range of other topics relating to this subject. Our panelists for this episode include: Dr. Richard Keezer: Dr. Richard Keezer is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist currently working for the US Army at Fort Liberty, North Carolina. He now works mainly with young adults, conducting psychotherapy and psychological testing. Dr. Keezer obtained both his masters in clinical counseling and doctorate in clinical psychology from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. He has published research in the areas of adult ADHD and psychological testing. Before obtaining his clinical psychology doctorate, he was a licensed professional counselor working with adolescents in the suburbs of Chicago. Dr. Keezer's interest in psychology grew from his own experience in high school learning about behavioral economics. Dr. Keezer's input in today's discussion is entirely his own opinion and does not reflect the official policy, opinion, or beliefs of the US government, DoD, or US Army. Mrs. Lorna Wolfkill: Mrs. Wolfkill is Assistant Principal of CCS Secondary and works in High School Guidance. She also is a Volunteer Crisis Counselor, trained in Biblical counseling, and certified in Mental Health First Aid for both Teens and Adults. Mrs. Austyn Van Der Linden: Mrs. Van Der Linden is a licensed clinical social worker in Florida and Georgia is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She has been working as a clinician since 2018. Dr. Nari Jeter Dr. Jeter holds a Masters degree and PhD in Marriage and Family therapy. She also has additional certifications in three different couples therapy programs. She has worked in mental health in a hospital, at a residential treatment facility, and in private practice. Dr. Jeter has worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She is currently a teaching professor in Human Development and Family Science at FSU and has a private practice as a marriage and family therapist. Disclaimer CCS does not warrant, endorse, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of any information offered by guests, literature, or third party websites.These resources are provided for general informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a licensed provider with any questions regarding yours or your child’s emotional or physical health.

Gospel Centered Education Podcast S02E06 Today, Tom and Kelly unpack the book "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt, a New Your Times bestseller that has become very popular with parents. Theology is the "big brother" of all sciences, and Tom and Kelly filter Mr. Haidt's conclusions through the word of God as they share interesting an unexpected statistics relating to teens and the virtual world.

S2 Ep 7: Gospel Centered Creativity Today, Tom and Kelly welcome Mrs. Melinda Gernhardt, CCS’s Elementary and Middle school art teacher. Mrs. Gernhardt talks of the importance of art education and how creativity benefits all students no matter their artistic ability. Also in this episode, Tom and Kelly review the book, Refractions by Makoto Fujimura, in which essays are written highlighting the significance of a Christian perspective in the vast world of Art.

S2 E8 - The Spiritual Impact of Creative Work In this episode, Tom and Kelly explore the unique aspects of gospel-centered art education with Mrs. Danielle Henn, an art education teacher at Ignite Christian Academy and an adjunct professor at UAB, UNCG, and FSU. Mrs. Henn discusses the profound connection between creative work and spiritual well-being and shares practical tips for educators to inspire creativity in their students. Can beauty truly save the world? Tune in to join the conversation. We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and feedback by emailing kallen@ccs-chargers.org.

Introducing Bethesda Academy at CCS: Today, Tom and Kelly are joined by Mrs. Lawson Smith, Director of Educational Services at CCS, and Mrs. Jill Ashoo, Bethesda Academy Coordinator and Educational Services Instructor. Together, they introduce Bethesda Academy, a unique program that empowers students with special needs by immersing them in the Community Christian School environment. Focused on abilities rather than limitations, Bethesda Academy provides opportunities for growth and success. Listen in as we discuss the impact of this transformative program and the dedication behind it.

In this episode, Tom and Kelly take the opportunity to share the Gospel, exploring its message of hope, grace, and salvation. Join them as they discuss its relevance in everyday life and how it can bring transformation and encouragement. The Gospel of Jesus Christ in Simple Language 1.1 God created humans as unique and special creations, designed to live in relationship with the God of the universe. In fact, we were made to be like Him in certain ways. We are not an accident; we have dignity and purpose because God created us as His Image-bearers”. 1.2 A long time ago, man rebelled against a perfect God, and that relationship was broken. We then owed a debt to God we could not come close to paying. 1.3 God chose to deal with our rebellion and restore this beautiful relationship with man by sending his only son, Jesus Christ, to come to earth as a real man like us and give His life in payment for that debt. 1.4 Jesus is the Son of God, and lived a perfect life while he was on earth. He willingly died so that the debt we owed to God could be paid in full. In fact, He didn’t stay dead; He came back to life, so that we could again enjoy a personal relationship with him, we could refuse to rebel against God’s good boundaries for us, and successfully follow his teachings. 1.5 Anybody can know God personally if they believe that they have rebelled against a perfect God, and that they could not pay the debt they owe to God. Further, they must acknowledge that Jesus really is God’s son, and that he paid for us by dying and coming back to life. We also must realize that now He owns us, and deserves our full submission to His leadership. 1.6 As Christians we believe that everything was made by God and that the collection of His specific words to us, the Bible, is true. In fact, we believe that the Bible was inspired by God. That is, He guided people in exactly what to write down. The Bible tells us who He really is, what He is like and how we can live in harmony with Him. 1.7 Since God made everything, it is important that we learn how to see the entire world the way God does. 1.8 But most importantly we need to learn how to know, love and follow the God who made us, and who loves us so much that He was willing to die for us. Then we are able to love other people like He loves us. In all of this He has given us a clear and powerful reason to live. 1.9 As we live our life the way God designed it to be lived, He is shown to be glorious, and we flourish even through suffering. We will enjoy fellowship with him, experiencing His powerful presence both now and forever. And that is indeed good news! 1.10 A surrendered Christian buys into God’s vision, strategy & purposes for the Kingdom of God, and they make a firm commitment to follow His lead for His greater glory and the greater good of all whom they touch. 1.11 We must keep in clear focus the reality of the Gospel of the Kingdom, that is, how the Gospel is walked out within the rule and reign of God that is partial now, but will be fulfilled in totality when Jesus returns and makes all things right. 1.12 This means that as Christians we are to move toward culture in a redemptive way, and not away from it – while still employing wise discernment and joy. Ephesians 2 John 3, 14-17 Romans 6-8 Matthew 28

S2 EP9 Raising Up Leaders: The Heart of the CCS Senior Leadership Program What does it take to be a great leader? Join Tom and Kelly as they dive into the Senior Leadership Program at CCS with Mr. Jeff Collier, CCS Leadership Instructor and School Chaplain, and Kayleigh Stuart, CCSHS Senior Leader. Discover how this program goes beyond leadership training to instill lifelong values, mentorship, and discipleship, following the biblical model of 2 Timothy 2:2—“and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how CCS is shaping future leaders who lead with faith, integrity, and purpose! We want to hear your thoughts! Contact kallen@ccs-chargers.org with your thoughts and comments about this episode!

Science, STEM, and Faith Today, Tom and Kelly welcome Dr. Lori Bouck, STEM Lead at CCS, and Miss Catie Munson, a senior student at CCS. Together, they discuss the STEM program at CCS and how science, when done well, cultivates humility. Creation reflects God’s nature and character, and scientific advancements that benefit humanity fulfill His command to love our neighbor.

S2 E13- A Gospel Centered Academic Vision In this episode, Tom and Kelly sit down with Dr. Joshua Eller, Secondary Principal at CCS, and Mrs. Sabrina Grubbs, Elementary Principal at CCS, to explore the evolving landscape of education in the 21st century. What does a Community Christian School graduate look like, and what does it take to prepare students for success? Join us for an insightful conversation about academic excellence, character development, and the future of Christian education.

Bringing a Biblical Worldview into Humanities In this episode, Tom and Kelly sit down with Mrs. Tabetha Slemp, CCS’s 7th-9th grade English teacher, and Jake Veleber, a senior high student at CCS. Together, they explore how the Humanities department integrates Gospel-centered education into real-world discussions. How do you bring God’s truth into conversations about literature, history, and culture? Tune in to discover how this department cultivates a biblical worldview in the classroom and beyond.

In this episode, Tom and Kelly sit down with Mr. Charles Adcock, President of the CCS School Board, for an insightful discussion about the present and future of CCS. As a parent of CCS graduates and a dedicated leader, Mr. Adcock shares his perspective on the school’s mission, its strengths, and the challenges ahead. Listen to hear an engaging conversation about the heart of CCS and its vision for the future!

Welcome! In this episode, we delve into the Athletics program at CCS. Whether you or your child are involved with CCS athletics or you’re interested in discovering what a gospel-centered athletics program looks like, this video offers insights into how Community Christian School approaches the subject.

S2 Ep17: Exploring AI with Virtual Vance and Mr. Rutherford In this episode, things get interesting as the team introduces Virtual Vance—a quirky AI persona that quickly spirals out of control. Thankfully, the real Mr. Vance Rutherford, Technology Director at CCS, joins the conversation to provide valuable insight into the world of generative AI.

Emotional Health and the CCS Community In this episode, Tom, Kelly, and special guest Mrs. Anna Nelson, CCS’s School Nurse, engage in an honest and thoughtful conversation about emotional health at CCS. Anna shares the vision behind the school’s new emotional health statement, a carefully developed resource designed to support students’ well-being. Together, they explore how CCS addresses topics like anxiety and depression, the role of informal “hallway counseling,” and how a Christ-centered framework guides the school’s approach to emotional care. Join the conversation to learn how CCS is equipping students, staff, and families to navigate emotional health.

Season 2 Recap – Themes and Takeaways In this Season 2 wrap-up, Tom and Kelly reflect on an incredible journey marked by thoughtful conversations and meaningful moments. From honest discussions about parenting in today’s digital age to unpacking insights from The Anxious Generation, this season has explored key themes around emotional health, spiritual formation, and the challenges of modern life. We also celebrated the power of gospel-centered art and creativity, spotlighted the vibrant academic and athletic life at Community Christian School—and, of course, followed Mr. Vance Rutherford’s heroic (and hilarious) attempts to stop Virtual Vance from taking over the world! Whether you’ve journeyed with us from the beginning or are just tuning in, this episode captures the heart of Season 2 and the stories that made it so memorable.

This season on Gospel Centered Education our goal is to bring thoughtful, practical insight to the larger conversation about forming young lives, so you can be more effective, more intentional, and more hopeful in the work you do with children and teens. We’ve also faced our own challenges in figuring out how to do this well! In this episode, we’ll ask big questions: Who is shaping the next generation? What should we see, be, know, and do to guide them well? How does faith in God shape this process? We’ll also begin to uncover how Gospel Centered Education can bring a unique perspective to the broader conversation about raising and educating the next generation. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or mentor, this episode will inspire you to lead with purpose and conviction.

Dive into a crucial discussion on what's driving the decline in modern education! This episode explores why math and reading scores are at their lowest levels in over two decades, attributing the crisis to complex, multi-factor issues. We analyze how the COVID-19 pandemic exposed structural weaknesses, especially due to a lack of student self-initiation and parental support during remote learning , while persistent problems like chronic absenteeism continue to plague schools. Beyond the classroom, a focus on hyper-practical skills and a de-emphasis on higher-level thinking are undermining students' ability to discern and think logically. We also discuss how cultural forces—including rising anxiety , hyper-individualism, and a challenging move to student-centered learning —contribute to a decline in student flourishing.

S03E03: The Calling of The Teacher This episode addresses the difficult reality of the teaching profession, noting declining well-being, widespread lack of respect, and high turnover. Educators are stressed in a "VUCA" (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world, grappling with everything from new technology like AI to debates over curriculum, while many teacher preparation programs are failing to teach practical skills like classroom management. Furthermore, parents and teachers often struggle to partner effectively with each other. Despite these significant hurdles, Tom and Kelly emphasize that teaching is a deeply profound calling where one has the privilege of forming and forging a person. A gospel-centered calling goes beyond natural talent or enjoyment, it requires a willingness to lay down your life for the student, even those who are difficult. Teachers have a wonderful opportunity to help students discern their vocation, making a lasting difference in their life.

Why don't we have the leaders we need today? This episode breaks down the essential traits emerging leaders must master, starting with the ability to set a clear vision and connect it to strategic thinking. Beyond hard skills, we emphasize the often-overlooked necessity of self-reflection and emotional intelligence to navigate today's complex world of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). We argue that true growth is a product of forming (being encouraged) and forging (enduring sustained hardship), which is necessary to build the adaptability and resilience now cited as a top leadership trait. We also confront the alarming burnout rates in fields like education and non-profits, concluding that to cultivate better leaders, organizations must prioritize high expectations with high support—including time for recovery—to ensure they thrive, not just survive.

S3E5- Identity Has an Author This episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast explores the crucial idea of sourcing identity in the Bible. Tom and Kelly emphasize that the Bible is God's inspired and authoritative revelation, making it the essential foundation for life. The biblical narrative is summarized in four movements—Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Restoration—with Redemption through Jesus Christ being the non-negotiable key to living out the Restoration (the Kingdom of God) now. Tom and Kelly express concern that many self-identified Christians compartmentalize their faith, leading to confusion among children. Ultimately, a child’s primary identity and purpose comes from their family, parents, teachers and leaders living a committed, surrendered, and non-compartmentalized faith.

S03E06: 6 Common Mistakes Modern Parents Make In this candid and challenging episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, hosts Kelly Allen and Tom Argersinger dive deep into six common pitfalls and misconceptions that influence how modern Christian parents raise and educate their children. Tom, drawing on decades of experience, urges listeners to move beyond cultural narratives to embrace a more thoughtful, nuanced, and biblically grounded approach to family life. They confront the idea that a parent's primary job is to ensure happiness, arguing that our ultimate role is pointing our children to Jesus and fostering Christian character. The conversation clarifies the crucial difference between healthy resistance and harmful rebellion, and stresses the importance of creating a safe space for children to express doubt and ask tough questions about their faith. The hosts also tackle the challenges of technology and objective standards, asking: Do monitoring apps signal trust or mistrust? And when is a standard meant for everyone, and when must it be individualized? This discussion is designed to provoke thoughtful reflection, help parents identify areas for growth, and remind everyone that parenting is extremely difficult, requiring a daily, vital walk with Jesus.

S03E07: 6 MORE Common Mistakes Modern Parents Make Continuing on from our last episode, this episode examines six more modern parenting myths by contrasting them with Christian principles. Our hosts Tom and Kelly first debunk the "do as I say, not as I do" approach, emphasizing that consistency and modeling are crucial, as children watch their parents 24/7. They reject the myth that "dads are optional," citing research that links positive father involvement to better academic achievement and greater emotional security in children. The discussion moves to faith, arguing against its compartmentalization by stating that it should apply to every area of life and that reluctance often stems from idolatry. The hosts caution against making kids an idol with the myth, "my life should revolve around my kids," warning against "trophy parenting" and implicitly teaching a child they are the center of the world. They also address the danger of safetyism (the unhealthy obsession with safety) by challenging the myth, "I must make my child 100 percent safe," stressing that parents must use discernment and allow children to experience failure and practice independence. Finally, they confront the idea that "money is the final filter for decision making," asserting that for Christians, money should not be the central question, especially regarding life callings, and that the focus should be on trusting God's will and provision.

Christmas Wishes for Our Kids In this episode, Tom and Kelly explore the 12 common myths in modern parenting they covered in the previous two episodes, their takeaways from them, and the Christmas wishes they have for their children. They emphasize the critical role of consistency, modeling, and authenticity in raising children. They challenge the "do as I say, not as I do" mentality, highlighting that children are constantly watching and learning from their parents' actions. The discussion also covers the vital importance of involved fathers, the pitfalls of compartmentalizing faith, and the dangers of "trophy parenting," where a child's accomplishments become an idol for the parents. Finally, they address the modern obsession with safetyism and the tendency to make financial gain the primary filter for life decisions, urging parents to instead foster wisdom and trust in God's calling for their children's lives.

In this episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, alumni guest Erin Keezer (Class of 2011) shares how her 12-year journey at Community Christian School in Tallahassee shaped her faith, career, and leadership skills. Now a worship leader and former educator, Erin reflects on the "culture of joy" and authenticity at CCS, noting how the school's rigorous academics—including challenging writing and speech courses—prepared her to excel in college. She discusses the impact of personal mentorship from faculty, the value of learning soft skills like problem-solving and initiative, and how the school fostered both her vocational calling and her lifelong commitment to ministry. Her story highlights the lasting influence of an individualized, Christ-centered education that encourages students to think critically while engaging deeply with their faith. Here is a list of the specific leadership skills and professional attributes Erin mentioned during the interview: - Problem-Solving and Initiative: Erin highlighted the ability to be a "self-starter" and a problem solver who identifies issues and proposes written solutions rather than just commiserating over difficulties. - Effective Communication: She credited her CCS education, specifically speech and writing classes, with giving her the foundation to articulate her thoughts clearly and communicate professionally in the workplace. - Conflict Resolution and Teamwork: She discussed the importance of "soft skills," such as knowing how to work well with difficult people and navigating professional drama with a plan to move forward. - Project Responsibility: Erin noted the value of taking full responsibility for a project and seeing it through to completion without needing to be micromanaged. - Resilience and Grit: Through experiences with academic setbacks, she learned the importance of staying engaged with hard situations to foster growth and excellence. - Intentional Mentorship: She noted that having been mentored by faculty gave her the framework to later invest in others and lead with mutual respect.

In this episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, guest host Kelly Allen sits down with Erin Collier, a 2021 graduate of Community Christian School (CCS) and a mechanical engineering alumna from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Erin shares how her seventh-grade teacher sparked her passion for engineering through a book recommendation and how the rigorous academic foundation at CCS, particularly in calculus and physics, prepared her for success in higher education. Now working in wastewater conveyance, Erin discusses how the school’s unique four-year leadership program and the "Vision Quest" experience taught her to rely on God’s strength, serve others in her professional life, and navigate challenges with resilience. Her story highlights the lasting impact of mentorship and faith-based leadership training in shaping a purposeful career dedicated to serving the community.

In this episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, hosts Tom Argersinger and Kelly Allen sit down with Steven Passetti, a CCS alumnus and current faculty member, to explore his profound journey of faith and restoration. Steven candidly shares his experience navigating a "culture shock" after leaving CCS in the fifth grade, his subsequent time in the military, and a pivotal season of wandering before a miraculous return to the Gospel at age 24. The conversation dives deep into the "scandalous grace" of Jesus, the formative power of suffering—including Steven’s reflection on breaking his neck in a car accident—and the importance of dying to oneself so that others may live. From discussing the challenges of modern technology and parental instincts to protect children from discomfort, to the rigorous academic mission of CCS, this episode serves as a powerful reminder that God is "good with mess" and is constantly working to unite us with Christ.

In this episode of the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, hosts Tom and Kelly are joined by Dr. Angela Long, the Chief Engagement Officer at Tallahassee State College, for a deep dive into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Long, a nationally recognized researcher and speaker who recently represented U.S. education at the United Nations AI for Good Summit, explores the shift toward Industry 5.0 and the emergence of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). The conversation highlights the urgent need for "human-led, tech-supported" learning, emphasizing that while AI can replicate many technical tasks, essential human "durable skills"—such as critical thinking, leadership, and socio-emotional intelligence—are more vital than ever. From discussing the political landscape and the AI Bill of Rights to the importance of maintaining a faith-based perspective on truth and human value, this episode provides a roadmap for parents and educators to ensure students are truly future-ready in an automated age.

In this episode of the Alumni Voices series on the Gospel Centered Education Podcast, Tom and Kelly welcome 2017 graduate Erin Esguerra (Mulrooney) to discuss how her formative years in Tallahassee prepared her for life and business in Montreal, Canada. Erin, who co-owns a language school, shares how the rigorous academic environment and the Spanish curriculum at CCS sparked a lifelong passion for cross-cultural communication and gospel-centered connection. She reflects on the lasting impact of the school’s leadership program, the Junior Research Exhibition (JREX), and the "honorable dialogue" practiced in philosophy courses, which equipped her with the critical thinking skills and work ethic necessary to thrive as a believer in a secular professional world. Erin concludes with heartfelt advice for current students, encouraging them to cherish the spiritual and academic foundation they are building, as it serves as a vital tool for shining the light of Christ in any environment.From Tallahassee to Montreal, 2017 CCS grad Erin Esguerra (Mulrooney) shares her journey from Spanish class debates to leading a language school in Canada. She unpacks how a gospel-centered education shaped her thinking, leadership, and cross-cultural work in the real world.