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WISE and Otherwise
Wichita Innovative Schools and Educators
53 episodes
1 day ago
Join host and Christian education advocate Dalena Wallace on WISE and Otherwise, a podcast powered by the Heartland Education Reformation Organization (HERO). Each episode explores faith-based and family-centered education—featuring leaders reshaping learning through microschools, hybrids, and co-ops that keep Christ at the center. For media inquiries, please email dalena@aimeducationks.com.
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Education
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All content for WISE and Otherwise is the property of Wichita Innovative Schools and Educators and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Join host and Christian education advocate Dalena Wallace on WISE and Otherwise, a podcast powered by the Heartland Education Reformation Organization (HERO). Each episode explores faith-based and family-centered education—featuring leaders reshaping learning through microschools, hybrids, and co-ops that keep Christ at the center. For media inquiries, please email dalena@aimeducationks.com.
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Education
Episodes (20/53)
WISE and Otherwise
This Mom Built a School for the Kids Public Schools Couldn't Handle

What do you do when the system has no place for your child—or any child with special needs?


In this moving episode of WISE and Otherwise, you’ll meet Meghan Melchor, founder of Lionheart Academy, a microschool for children with autism, intellectual delays, behavioral challenges, and other high-support needs. When one mom reached out with nowhere else to turn, Meghan said yes—and opened her home, her heart, and eventually, her own school.


🎙️ In this episode:

– Why most Christian schools weren’t willing to serve high-needs students

– How Meghan began homeschooling someone else’s child in her basement

– The daily miracles and spiritual battles of running a school for overlooked kids

– What church partnership can look like when done right

– Why she believes there are more Lionheart Academies waiting to be built

This isn’t just a story about education—it’s about calling, compassion, and the kind of love that refuses to give up on a child.


📢 What would happen if every community had a Lionheart? Could you be the next one to say yes? Tell us in the comments.


🔔 Like and follow for more real stories of courage, creativity, and Kingdom work in education.


📌 Resources & Links:

🔹 Visit Lionheart Academy: https://www.lionheartacademykansas.com/

🔹 More podcast episodes: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6GbjQYqh0HeG7ojJNq0eoe?si=cIryTLDnQLitWpKqfZ5RSQ#SpecialNeedsEducation


#FaithAndEducation #LionheartAcademy #MicroSchool #SchoolChoice #ChristianSchool #ParentAdvocacy #WISEAndOtherwise

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5 days ago
28 minutes 52 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
She Tried to Stay Out of It—Now She Runs the School

Shawna Hein didn’t set out to lead a school. In fact, she tried to keep her distance. But when her daughter fell in love with Northfield Academy—a small, classically grounded school in Wichita—God started tugging on Shawna’s heart too.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Shawna shares her surprising journey from skeptical homeschool mom to head of school, and how a simple campus tour turned into a personal transformation.🎙️ Inside this episode:– Why a shy homeschooler felt instantly at home at Northfield Academy– How Shawna slowly went from volunteer to board member to head of school– The power of classical education to shape the soul—not just fill the mind– How studying the Iliad, Dante, and Scripture helped her rediscover her own faith– What makes this microschool culture so deeply human and transformativeThis is more than a school story—it’s about calling, beauty, motherhood, and how God sometimes pulls us into things we never planned… but were made for.📢 Have you ever ended up somewhere you were trying to avoid—and realized it was exactly where you were meant to be? Share in the comments!🔔 Like and follow for more stories of faith, education, and everyday courage.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Northfield Academy: https://www.northfieldacademy.org🔹 Learn more about HERO: https://www.heartlandhero.org/🔹 Watch more episodes: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6GbjQYqh0HeG7ojJNq0eoe?si=ueQDNO5EQMeY-w1gOZ99YA#ClassicalEducation #NorthfieldAcademy #FaithAndEducation #HomeschoolToHeadmaster #MicroSchoolMovement #SchoolChoice #WISEAndOtherwise #ParentLedEducation

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2 weeks ago
30 minutes 46 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
She Left Public School to Build a One-Room Schoolhouse

After 24 years in public education, Trudy Wishrop was burned out, overwhelmed… and deeply convicted. God was calling her to something radical. So she said yes.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Trudy shares the incredible journey behind Armor Academy—a micro-school she launched in the upstairs of her home, with dreams of eventually moving into a 100-year-old one-room schoolhouse… which she literally had moved to her property.📘 In this episode:– How COVID revealed a vision—and ignited a calling– What it was like to leave a secure paycheck and take a leap of faith– Why she never saw herself homeschooling (and how that changed)– The simple rhythms of Armor Academy’s day-to-day life– What surprised her most about running a small school– How local churches and parents came alongside her visionThis is more than a feel-good story—it’s a roadmap for any educator or parent wondering: “Is there something more?”📢 Would you ever start a one-room schoolhouse? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.🔔 Subscribe for more stories of faith, courage, and creative Christian education.📌 Links & Resources:🔹 Visit Armor Academy: https://www.armoracademy.net🔹 Follow Armor Academy on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Armor-Academy-61560977438089/🔹 Follow Armor Academy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArmorAcademy

🔹 Learn more about HERO: https://www.heartlandhero.org/🔹 Watch more episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTvVOFEIGF9B1Kl4joO8vc6vfwjR7-BSz&si=VKv7L4P0lHdI4Irv#ChristianEducation #OneRoomSchoolhouse #FaithAndEducation #ArmorAcademy #MicroSchoolMovement #TeacherCalling #WISEAndOtherwise #SchoolChoice #EducationByFaith

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1 month ago
31 minutes 22 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
How He Started A Tuition-Free Christian School

Most churches talk about reaching the next generation. Pastor Justin Walker built a school to do it.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Pastor Justin shares the remarkable story of launching Salt and Light Academy—a tuition-free, Christ-centered school born inside his church with zero budget, total faith, and a bold vision to reach the 57 million students in public schools.🎙️ In this episode:– How Salt and Light Academy launched from idea to reality in 7 months– Why they refuse to charge tuition—even when parents offer to pay– The church’s role in funding education without compromising the Gospel– Stories of student baptisms, family transformation, and community revival– What it really costs to run a free Christian school (and how they’re doing it)This isn’t just a story about a school. It’s a model. A movement. And a direct challenge to churches everywhere: What’s in your hand—and what’s stopping you from using it?📢 Would your church ever start a school like this? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.🔔 Like, share, and subscribe for more stories of faith, bold leadership, and K–12 education reform.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Salt & Light Academy: https://www.saltandlightky.org/school🔹 Connect with Pastor Justin Walker: justin@saltandlightky.org🔹 Visit the church website: https://www.saltandlightky.org#FaithAndEducation #SchoolChoice #TuitionFreeChristianSchool #ChristianEducation #SaltAndLightAcademy #ChurchBasedSchool #PastorLeadership #WISEAndOtherwise

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1 month ago
41 minutes 44 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
This Mom Fought for Her Son—and Found a School That Fights Too

For years, Jaime Beck watched her son Charlie struggle in silence—kicking, screaming, melting down before school, and coming home exhausted, ashamed, and overlooked. He was smart, creative, and full of potential—but public school didn’t know what to do with him.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Jaime shares the emotional journey of discovering her son’s dyslexia late, navigating misdiagnoses, and feeling dismissed by the very system meant to help him. But everything changed when she found Freedom Prep—a school that didn’t just accommodate Charlie, but believed in him.🎙️ Inside this episode:– The signs she saw—and how long it took to get real answers– What public school offered (and failed to deliver)– Why dyslexia wasn’t the problem—it was the misunderstanding of it– The emotional toll on Charlie—and on Jaime as a mother– How Freedom Prep rebuilt confidence, joy, and belonging– What every parent needs to know about advocating for their childIf you’ve ever felt like your child was being left behind, this story will give you hope—and a roadmap for what’s possible.📢 Have you ever had to fight for your child to be seen? Share your story in the comments.🔔 Like, subscribe, and follow for more powerful stories of faith, education, and courageous families.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Freedom Prep: https://freedomprepwichita.org/🔹 Connect with HERO: https://www.heartlandhero.org/contact🔹 Explore school options near you: https://www.heartlandhero.org/directory

#DyslexiaAwareness #SchoolChoice #EducationThatHeals #FreedomPrep #FaithAndEducation #WISEAndOtherwise #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy

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2 months ago
24 minutes 48 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
What If Your Missions Budget Could Save a Christian School?

While churches send money across the globe, local Christian schools are closing their doors. What if we’ve been overlooking one of the most urgent mission fields—right in our own backyard?In this powerful episode of WISE and Otherwise, host Emmi McCabe sits down with Dalena Wallace, founder of HERO (Heartland Education Reformation Organization), to talk about the growing crisis in Christian education—and the bold vision to solve it.💡 Inside this conversation:– Why 75% of Christian kids leave the faith after high school– The real reason so many Christian schools are shutting down– What HERO is doing to fund faith-based education and keep it accessible– How churches, donors, and families can unite to protect the next generation– A fresh call for churches to treat Christian education as ministryThis episode is a wake-up call for anyone who cares about the future of the church, the family, and the Christian school movement.📢 Could your church be funding Christian education instead of losing the next generation? Let us know in the comments.🔔 Like, share, and subscribe for more stories at the intersection of faith and education.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about HERO: https://www.heartlandhero.org🔹Donate to support Christian schools: https://www.heartlandhero.org/donate#ChristianEducation #SchoolChoice #ChurchAndSchool #FaithAndEducation #MissionsAtHome #HeartlandHERO #WISEAndOtherwise

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2 months ago
28 minutes 48 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
This Secretly Legal Program Is Changing Public Schools

In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Kori Pennypacker, Executive Director of Bible2School, reveals how a little-known law called release time is making it possible to bring Bible-based education into public schools during school hours. No after-school programs. No church attendance required. Just one hour a week of Gospel-centered teaching—right in the middle of the school day.


🎙️ What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How release time works (and why most Christians don’t know about it)
  • The incredible stories of children who had never heard the name of Jesus
  • Why public school kids are hungry for truth and hope
  • The power of volunteers, local churches, and one hour a week
  • How you can bring this program to your town


Whether you're a parent, pastor, teacher, or just passionate about reaching the next generation, this episode will surprise and inspire you.


📢 Did you know this was legal? Would you support it in your community? Let us know in the comments!


🔔 Like, share, and subscribe for more stories about faith, education, and bold impact.


📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Bible2School: https://www.bible2school.com/🔹 Watch the explainer video: https://cbn.com/news/us/innovative-program-teaches-public-school-kids-about-jesus-bible🔹 Start a Bible2School Program: https://www.bible2school.com/start-a-program/ 🔹 Find a Program Near You: https://www.bible2school.com/find-a-program/

#Bible2School #FaithAndEducation #PublicSchoolMinistry #ReleaseTimeLaw #ChristianParenting #SchoolChoice #WISEAndOtherwise

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2 months ago
40 minutes 28 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
This School Board Member Wants God Back in Education

When Kathy Bond stepped into the world of public education, she didn’t come with a political agenda—she came with conviction. A grandmother, former ballerina, and now school board member, Kathy has one clear mission: bring truth, order, and God back into schools.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Kathy shares the bold moments that led her to run for school board, including witnessing out-of-control student behavior, a system riddled with excuses, and faith being completely erased from the classroom.🎙️ What you'll hear in this episode:– The real reason she ran for school board (hint: it involves pencils)– How she faced backlash after voting “no” on a controversial policy– Why she believes public schools need more discipline and more faith– The difference she’s seen when parents speak up– What it means to lead with courage in a politically charged environmentWhether you're a parent, teacher, or concerned citizen, Kathy’s story will remind you that one person—with boldness and backbone—can still make a difference.📢 Do you believe God belongs in public education? Tell us in the comments!🔔 Follow us for more real stories of faith, leadership, and school reform.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Connect with Kathy Bond: kathybond2025@gmail.com🔹 Learn more about Kathy Bond's advocacy: https://kathybondforschoolboard.com/#SchoolBoard #FaithInEducation #PublicSchoolReform #ChristianLeadership #ParentalRights #WISEAndOtherwise #EducationMatters

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3 months ago
34 minutes 42 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
This School Teaches the Kids the System Gave Up On

When schools say “You don’t belong here”—where do those kids go?In this powerful episode of WISE and Otherwise, Chuck Knowles, PhD, founder of  @McAdamsAcademyWichitaKs  shares how a former juvenile chaplain stepped out in faith to build a school for expelled, at-risk, and court-involved youth—many of whom were completely written off by the traditional system.📘 Inside this episode:– How Chuck started with a card table, one student, and no funding– Why expulsion doesn’t mean a child is beyond redemption– The role of trauma, trust, and transformation in real education– How McAdams Academy partners with families, churches, and even judges– Why real school reform starts with reaching the most overlookedIf you’ve ever wondered what true redemptive education looks like—or whether there’s hope for the “hardest” kids—this episode will move and challenge you.📢 Do you think more schools should focus on second chances? Tell us in the comments!🔔 Follow us for more bold conversations about faith, education, and restorative leadership.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about McAdams Academy: https://www.mcadamsacademy.org/🔹 Connect with Chuck Knowles, PhD: chuck@mcadamsacademy.com#AlternativeEducation #SchoolChoice #RedemptiveEducation #AtRiskYouth #McAdamsAcademy #FaithAndEducation #WISEAndOtherwise

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3 months ago
48 minutes 18 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
He Bought a Church… and Accidentally Launched a School

Pastor Dave Atherton didn’t have a strategy, a staff, or even a clear plan—but he did have a burden for families and a willingness to say “yes.” What followed was a series of surprising moves, divine timing, and a school that was born inside the walls of One Church at Pleasant View.

In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Pastor Dave shares how his church became home to not one, but two distinct Christian education models—a full-time micro-school and a hybrid homeschool program—both now operating as One Learning Academy. From church mergers and facility upgrades to building trust, launching a board, and empowering volunteers, this is the story of how one church stepped into the gap for local families.

🎓 Inside this conversation:
– How two schools merged into one thriving academy
– The powerful phrase that convinced the church to treat school as ministry
– What it looks like when grandparents, teachers, and pastors work together
– Why churches don’t need to be experts—they just need to be willing
– Encouragement for pastors who feel overwhelmed but called to take action


📢 What do you think? Could your church be the next to say YES to Christian education? Let us know in the comments!


🔔 Follow us for more stories of faith, education, and bold church leadership.


📌 Resources & Links:
🔹 Learn more about One Learning Academy: https://www.oladerby.com/

🔹 Connect with Pastor Dave’s church: https://www.onechurchderby.com/


#ChristianEducation #Microschools #ChurchBasedSchool #FaithAndEducation #WISEAndOtherwise #SchoolChoice #EducationIsMinistry #PastorLeadership

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4 months ago
36 minutes 24 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
They Called Her a Christian Nationalist. She Called It Her Mission.

When Jodi Schlesener decided to start a new school rooted in faith, family, and freedom, she knew there would be pushback. But what she didn’t expect? Being labeled a cult leader and Christian nationalist—before the doors even opened.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Jodi shares her incredible journey from public school skeptic to Apogee Alpha & Omega founder. Backed by her father's legacy, a local church, and an unshakable conviction to take action, she built a microschool model that puts students—and their values—first.📘 In this powerful episode:– Why public school never felt like the right fit for her kids– The moment she knew it was time to do something– What happened when her student refused to honor false gods– How Apogee equips both children and parents to lead– The unexpected backlash—and the faithful response📢 What do you think? Should more parents take action when schools don’t reflect their values? Let us know in the comments!🔔 Follow us for more real stories of courage, conviction, and education reform.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Apogee Alpha & Omega: https://www.apogeealphaomega.com/🔹 Find a microschool or hybrid near you: https://www.heartlandhero.org/directory

#Apogee #SchoolChoice #FaithAndEducation #MicroSchools #ChristianEducation #ParentalRights #WISEAndOtherwise

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4 months ago
27 minutes 50 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Is School Choice Really Good For Kids?

Is it really possible to ditch the rigid school system… and still thrive?

According to bestselling author and education advocate Kerry McDonald, the answer is a joyful, resounding yes.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Kerry shares insights from her life as a homeschooling mom, policy expert, and author of the upcoming book "Joyful Learning: How to Find Freedom, Happiness, and Success Beyond Conventional Schooling."🎓 Inside this conversation:– Why families are rejecting one-size-fits-all education– What decentralized, parent-driven schooling really looks like– How the 2020 school closures unleashed an era of innovation– The difference between joyful learning and traditional schooling– Why parents—not bureaucrats—should define what quality looks like– How YOU can start or support a microschool or hybrid model in your communityThis episode will encourage every parent, educator, and church leader who's longing for something better—and more life-giving—for the next generation.📢 Do you think joyful learning is possible for all families? Tell us in the comments!🔔 Follow us if you believe education should empower—not standardize—our children.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Preorder Kerry’s new book: Joyful Learning – https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kerry-mcdonald/joyful-learning/9781541705524/🔹 Explore edentrepreneur.org: https://edentrepreneur.org/🔹 Learn more about the HERO project: https://www.heartlandhero.org/🔹 Learn more about WISE: https://www.wisetogether.org/#JoyfulLearning #Microschools #EducationFreedom #Homeschooling #SchoolChoice #ChristianEducation #KerryMcDonald #WISEAndOtherwise

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5 months ago
42 minutes 31 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Mom Speaks Out About Public School Neglect

When one of Stephanie Dulin’s children was found asleep and unattended for five hours in a public school classroom—and no one seemed to care—she knew something had to change. After years of being dismissed, ignored, and left out of the conversation, Stephanie took matters into her own hands.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Stephanie shares her journey from frustration to freedom. A foster and adoptive mom, a passionate advocate, and now an art teacher at Freedom Learning Academy, she opens up about:✅ The breaking point that led her to leave public school✅ Her search for academic and behavioral accountability✅ The story behind her son’s suspension—and the shocking double standard✅ What a healthy, responsive, values-driven school environment looks like✅ Why more families are leaving the system and finding something betterIf you’ve ever felt like your voice as a parent doesn’t matter—this is the episode you need to hear.📢 What do you think? Should parents have more say in how schools operate? Share your thoughts in the comments!🔔 Follow us for more real stories of school choice, faith, and educational freedom.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Freedom Learning Academy: https://freedomlearningacademy.com/🔹 Find alternative schools in your area: https://www.heartlandhero.org/directory#PublicSchoolExit #SchoolChoice #ParentVoiceMatters #FaithAndEducation #FreedomLearningAcademy #WISEAndOtherwise #HomeschoolAlternative

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5 months ago
25 minutes 48 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
What Pushed This Mom to Reject the Public School System

When Jenn Troy moved her family to Kansas, she expected a fresh start—but what she found in the local public school system left her stunned. From masked classrooms and canceled hugs to values that clashed with her own, Jenn knew something had to change.In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Jenn shares her family’s journey from feeling out of place and unheard in public school to finding freedom, alignment, and peace at Freedom Learning Academy. With a background in natural healthcare and a passion for raising strong, grounded kids, Jenn opens up about the hard decisions—and the beautiful results.🎧 Inside this episode:– Why COVID-era restrictions exposed deeper issues in public schools– The moment her daughter’s hug was rejected—and what it revealed– Concerns about subtle (and not-so-subtle) ideological messaging– How Freedom Learning Academy offered structure and freedom– Encouragement for parents searching for a better educational fit📢 What do you think? Is it time more families re-evaluate their public school options? Let us know in the comments.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow us for more real stories from courageous parents.📌 Resources & Links:🔹 Learn more about Freedom Learning Academy: https://freedomlearningacademy.com/🔹 Find a microschool near you: https://www.heartlandhero.org/directory#PublicSchoolExit #SchoolChoice #Homeschooling #MicroSchools #ParentalRights #FaithAndEducation #FreedomLearningAcademy #WISEAndOtherwise

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6 months ago
25 minutes 4 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
She Rejected Public School—Without Sacrificing Her Career or Ministry

What happens when God calls you to homeschool… but you’re already called to a full-time ministry too?

In this inspiring episode of WISE and Otherwise, therapist and mom Alexa Munger shares her emotional journey of seeking the right education path for her son. Torn between her calling as a licensed therapist and her desire to follow God’s prompting to homeschool, Alexa thought there was no way she could do both—until she discovered something she’d never heard of before: a microschool.


📘 Inside this episode:

– The moment she knew public school wasn’t right for her family

– How she balanced her ministry, career, and motherhood

– What makes microschools like Rooted Microschool a life-giving option for working moms

– Her therapist insight on what kids today are truly missing– Encouragement for moms feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their schooling choices

If you’re a mom who feels called to more but doesn't know how to make it all work—this story is for you.


🔔 Follow us for more honest conversations about faith, education, and parenting.


Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!

HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/


📢 What do you think? Can moms balance homeschooling and career? Let us know in the comments!

📌 Resources & Links:

🔹 Learn more about Rooted Microschool: https://www.rootedmicroschoolks.com/

🔹 Explore microschool options: https://www.heartlandhero.org/directory


#Homeschooling #MicroSchools #SchoolChoice #ChristianParenting #WorkingMoms #PublicSchoolAlternatives #WISEAndOtherwise

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6 months ago
22 minutes 3 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Bullied, Ignored, and Locked Out: Why This Mom Said "Enough"

What happens when your child is bullied at school—and no one listens?In this powerful episode of WISE and Otherwise, Jaci Unruh shares the heartbreaking journey that led her to pull her daughter from the local public school in small-town Kansas.


✅ Her daughter was repeatedly bullied—physically and emotionally.

✅ The school ignored her cries for help.

✅ Administrators brushed off concerns.

✅ The final straw? A disturbing incident and a school culture that left her locked out—literally and figuratively.


But Jaci didn’t stay silent. And she didn’t stay stuck. She chose something different. Something better. She chose homeschooling to heal.


🎧 Tune in to hear:

– The reality of what some families face in small-town public schools

– How the community and even churches turned their backs

– The unexpected strength and support she found in the homeschool community

– What it means to advocate fiercely for your child


If you’ve ever questioned whether to speak up, step out, or take back control of your child’s education—this episode is for you.


🔔 Follow us for more in-depth conversations on faith, education, and school choice!


Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!

HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/


📢 Have you ever felt ignored by your child’s school? Share your experience in the comments.


#SchoolChoice #EducationFreedom #Homeschooling #Microschools #ChristianEducation #EducationReform #ParentalRights #FaithAndEducation #PublicSchoolCrisis #HomeschoolingJourney #WISEAndOtherwise #ChristianParenting #ProtectOurKids

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6 months ago
33 minutes 53 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Inside the Fight for Education Freedom in America

The battle for education freedom is heating up, and Becky Elder has been on the front lines for decades. From homeschooling pioneer to microschool founder, she has dedicated her life to creating better, more accessible education options for families. But as school choice policies and alternative models grow, so do the challenges.

In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Becky shares:

✅ The history of her family's fight for educational freedom

✅ Why microschools and homeschooling are surging in popularity

✅ How school choice policies are reshaping the future of education

✅ The role churches can play in the education movement


If you're passionate about homeschooling, private schools, micro-schools, or school choice, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!


🔔 Follow us for more in-depth conversations on faith, education, and school choice!


Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!

HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/


📢 What do you think? Should parents have full control over their child’s education? Let us know in the comments!


#SchoolChoice #EducationFreedom #Homeschooling #Microschools #ChristianEducation #EducationReform #ParentalRights #FaithAndEducation

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6 months ago
41 minutes 49 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Classical Christian Education Is Making a Comeback

For decades, education has drifted away from its classical roots—but that’s changing. Families across the country are rediscovering the power of Classical Christian Education, and the movement is growing fast.

In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Amy McVay shares her journey from homeschooling mom to co-op leader to hybrid school founder. She reveals how classical education transformed her children’s learning, why parents are seeking alternatives to traditional schooling, and how her new Highlands Latin School of Wichita is meeting this demand.

🔹 What makes classical education different?

🔹 Why are parents moving away from public schools?

🔹 How can churches play a role in this education revival?


If you’ve ever considered homeschooling, hybrid schools, or a classical curriculum, this episode is a must-watch!


🔔 Follow us for more insightful conversations on faith, education, and family!


Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!

HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/


📢 Join the discussion! Are you considering Classical Christian Education for your children? Let us know in the comments!


📌 Resources & Links:

🔹 Learn more about Highlands Latin School of Wichita: www.highlandslatin.org/wichita

🔹 Connect with Amy McVay: wichita@highlandslatin.org


#ClassicalEducation #ChristianEducation #Homeschooling #HybridSchools #FaithBasedLearning #EducationReform #SchoolChoice

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7 months ago
22 minutes 32 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Why This Mom Pulled Her Kids Out of Public School

When Nikki Chubb received a last-minute notice about a mysterious school seminar, she had no idea it would change everything. What she discovered left her shocked—and made her realize it was time to pull her kids out of public school immediately.

In this episode of WISE and Otherwise, Nikki shares her powerful journey from trusting the school system to taking full control of her children's education. She opens up about the tough decisions, the moment her husband said, "It’s time," and the incredible growth of the homeschooling community in her town.

If you’ve ever questioned the education system or felt the nudge to homeschool, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Nikki’s story is a testament to faith, courage, and the power of taking action for your children’s future.


Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!

HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/


📢 Join the discussion! Have you ever thought about homeschooling? Let us know in the comments!


🔹 Connect with Nikki Chubb on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkirchubb/


#Homeschooling #PublicSchoolExit #FaithBasedEducation #WhyWeHomeschool #ChristianParenting #SchoolChoice #EducationReform

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7 months ago
35 minutes 46 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Small Town, Big Mission: The Birth of Legacy Learning Academy

In the small town of Wetmore, Kansas, population 311, a school closure could have marked the end of a community’s legacy. Instead, it sparked the beginning of something extraordinary. Join Dalena Wallace and Analyssa Noe in this inspiring episode of WISE and Otherwise as they explore the incredible story behind the creation of Legacy Learning Academy.From losing its public school to building a thriving Christian microschool, this story is one of faith, resilience, and community. Discover how Analyssa left a successful corporate career to follow her calling, rally a small town, and redefine what education can look like when guided by faith and determination.Through their conversation, Dalena and Analyssa dive into the challenges Wetmore faced after the school closure, the journey of founding Legacy Learning Academy, the incredible role of faith and community in rebuilding education, and practical insights for others considering similar missions.✨ Be inspired by this story of a small town with a big mission to transform education and restore hope.📌 Make sure to sign up to our newsletter on our website to get the latest updates on this incredible movement of supporting Christian education!HERO Website: https://www.heartlandhero.org/📧 If you’d like to reach out to Analyssa for more information or to connect, you can email her at analyssa.noe@gmail.com.

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8 months ago
37 minutes 32 seconds

WISE and Otherwise
Join host and Christian education advocate Dalena Wallace on WISE and Otherwise, a podcast powered by the Heartland Education Reformation Organization (HERO). Each episode explores faith-based and family-centered education—featuring leaders reshaping learning through microschools, hybrids, and co-ops that keep Christ at the center. For media inquiries, please email dalena@aimeducationks.com.