American Classroom

What if science class could be the launchpad for a lifetime of curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking? In this inspiring episode, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Jeff Burrell, a master teacher with over 30 years of experience, to explore the true power of science education. From hands-on robotics to peanut butter sandwich logic tests, Jeff shares how he helps students t...

How is music education evolving—and why does it still matter? Jason Barney returns to American Classroom to explore the enduring value of music education in today’s rapidly changing world. From the classroom to the recording studio, he shares unique insights into how technology and AI are reshaping music and what that means for students and educators alike. Learn why preserving music programs is e...

What if music education is the key to unlocking more than just talent—but deeper thinking, empathy, and cultural understanding? In this episode of American Classroom , hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland welcome Jason Barney—musician, composer, and passionate music advocate—to explore the profound impact of music in education. From enhancing cognitive development to building social connection...

What if education looked less like a system—and more like a community built around your child’s potential? In this week’s episode of American Classroom , hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsay Crosland sit down with Kelly Smith, CEO and founder of Prenda, to explore the transformative world of micro-schools. These small, personalized learning environments are helping students become confident, self-direct...

What makes a teacher credible in the eyes of their students—and how do you build it every day? In this episode of American Classroom , Kim Ellsworth, Emily Asasnovich, and Shalisa Arnold join hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland to share powerful, practical strategies for earning and maintaining credibility as an educator. From intentional lesson planning to classroom stewardship and student en...

What if the greatest lessons aren’t found in textbooks—but in the world around us? In this inspiring episode of American Classroom , hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland talk with special guest Heidi Udall about the life-changing impact of educational travel. From tasting new foods to standing where history happened, discover how real-world experiences help students grow in confidence, characte...

In this powerful follow-up episode of American Classroom, special guest Jenny Clark shares heartwarming stories of families whose lives have been transformed by Arizona's revolutionary Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program. Discover how ESAs have enabled parents to access life-changing therapies, educational resources, and personalized learning opportunities for their children with unique...

Discover the revolutionary world of school choice with special guest Jenny Clark on this eye-opening episode of American Classroom. As a mother, Arizona State Board of Education member, and founder of Love Your School, Jenny shares her insights on the current state of school choice and the groundbreaking Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program. Join hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland as...

Why are millions of families rethinking traditional education—and what are they choosing instead? In this episode of American Classroom , hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland launch a new series on the dynamic landscape of school choice in America. Drawing on the insights of Harvard economist Clayton Christensen, they explore how the "Jobs to Be Done" theory explains why families are moving awa...

If students don’t feel safe, it’s much more difficult for them to learn—and that affects all of us. This week on American Classroom , hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland sit down with Vanessa Whitener—mom, educator, and former school board member—to explore the urgent issue of school safety. Vanessa shares how a systems-based approach, involving parents, faith leaders, law enforcement, and pol...

What if your student could graduate high school with a college degree already in hand? With dual enrollment, that possibility becomes a reality. In this episode, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland speak with Dr. E.J. Anderson about how high school students can earn college credit—potentially even an Associate’s Degree—while still in high school. Whether you're looking to save on tuition or gi...

What if your tax dollars could directly support students’ extracurricular programs—at no extra cost to you? In this episode, Rebecca Jennings joins hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland to demystify Arizona’s Extracurricular Activity (ECA) Tax Credit. Learn how families, friends, and even out-of-state supporters can use this powerful tool to fund public school programs. From donation timelines a...

What’s it really like to be a first-year teacher—and how do you thrive, not just survive? In this episode, host Jared Taylor talks with Heidi Udall, principal of Heritage Academy’s Mesa campus, as she shares powerful insights and strategies for navigating that critical first year in the classroom. Drawing on her own journey from stay-at-home mom to educator, Heidi offers practical advice on resili...

What sets Master Teachers apart from the rest? In this episode, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland speak with Kathleen Lopez, principal of Heritage Academy Gateway Campus, to uncover the three defining traits of truly exceptional educators: Building caring relationships. Mastering classroom management. Maintaining a relentless drive to improve. Discover the mindsets and daily practices that h...

School funding is too often driven by politics—not by what’s best for students. In this episode, host Jared Taylor speaks with Carolyn Jess about how Heritage Academy is breaking away from government inefficiencies and political agendas. Learn how their innovative, student-first funding strategies are creating real change—and what other schools can learn from their example. To learn more, visit he...

As parents, we all want the best for our children—especially when it comes to their education. In today’s rapidly evolving world, alternative pathways to learning have never been more important. In this episode, we speak with Stephanie Lund, principal of Paul Revere Academy in Mesa, Arizona. She shares how the school’s innovative new partnership is transforming access to education and equipping st...

What makes a teacher truly great? Is it subject expertise, or something deeper—like passion, character, and the ability to inspire? In this episode, host Jared Taylor sits down with Shalisa Arnold and Kim Ellsworth of Heritage Academy to explore the qualities of a master teacher. Together, they discuss how school leaders can empower educators to become not just instructors, but role models who sha...

What happens when a school is founded on liberty, character, and civic responsibility? In this episode, Heritage Academy founder Earl Taylor returns to share the powerful philosophy behind the school’s unique approach to education. Join host Jared Taylor as they explore the founding principles that have shaped Heritage Academy since 1994—and how those ideals continue to impact students today. To l...

The Founding Fathers saw education as the key to preserving freedom—so does Heritage Academy. In this episode, host Jared Taylor interviews Heritage Academy founder Earl Taylor to explore the school’s origin story and his pioneering role in Arizona’s charter school movement. Learn how the principles of liberty and self-governance shaped the foundation of Heritage Academy—and why those values matte...

What sets American Classroom apart from other education podcasts? In this episode, we unpack exactly that. From introducing your hosts to highlighting how this show gives educators and parents a platform to share real-world insights, Jared and Lindsey lay out what you can expect as a listener—and why this podcast is worth your time.