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

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

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