The Griffin Rundown

This week, Mr. Bond and Mr. Grame, Upper School Academic Dean , explore the role of Rhetoric School in a classical Christian education. Their conversation examines rhetoric as the art of "speaking well" and its importance in helping students communicate truth with clarity, wisdom, and conviction. They discuss the biblical call to "always be prepared to give a defense" and how rhetoric equips stude...

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown , we are pleased to share the audio recording of Heritage Classical Academy’s Annual State of the School Meeting. Hear a reflection on God's faithfulness, an update on the school's mission and vision, and a look ahead at what is to come for our community. You'll also enjoy the latest happenings around campus, upcoming events, and, of course, the Joke of the W...

What role can a school dance play in shaping culture, building community, and glorifying God? In this episode of The Griffin Rundown , Mr. Bond sits down with Mr. Grant Bickell, who has helped Heritage Classical Academy develop the vision and voice behind many of our school dances and celebrations. Together, they explore how Heritage has approached school dances differently by first asking an impo...

What does it take to help children become confident, capable readers who genuinely love books? In this episode of The Griffin Rundown , Mr. Bond sits down with Lower School Curriculum Director Mrs. Tracy Villers to explore the foundations of reading instruction at Heritage Classical Academy. The conversation highlights the importance of cultivating a love of reading. From building strong habits at...

This week on The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Bond sits down with Latin and Greek teachers Mrs. Arlia and Mr. Hermesmann to explore why we study the classical languages and the lasting value they bring to a classical Christian education. You’ll also hear about what’s happening in the life of our school and, of course, the Joke of the Week!

This week on The Griffin Rundown , Mr. Bond sits down with Dr. Austin Shaw, pastor of Providence Church, to discuss our chapel theme for the 2026–2027 school year: The Doctrine of God’s Providence. Together, they reflect on the comfort, hope, and peace that come from knowing that the one true God is sovereign over all things and faithfully carries out His purposes. They also consider how we can he...

What does it mean for a student to truly succeed at Heritage? This week on the Griffin Rundown , Mr. Bond welcomes our new Dean of Student Success, Mr. Doug Walker, for a conversation about his new role, its impact on our Heritage community, and the bigger picture of student success. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know Mr. Walker and hear his vision for supporting our Griffins.

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown, we begin the school year with a new Head of School. David Nees and Daniel Bond sit down for a special interview to discuss the transition of leadership. Hear Mr. Bond share his background, vision for Heritage, and excitement for the year ahead. You'll also enjoy everyone's favorite segment, Joke of the Week, featuring another student-submitted joke sure to b...

In the final Griffin Rundown of the school year, Mr. Nees sits down with seniors Max McCort and Grace Ochenjele for a thoughtful and reflective conversation. As the first-ever graduating class of HCA, Max and Grace share what it has been like to help shape the school’s early years. They also discuss their Senior Thesis projects and talk about where they are headed after graduation.

This week on the podcast, Mr. Nees sits down with Elizabeth Joyce, Director of Advancement, and Rick Eimers, Senior Development Officer, to talk all about this year’s Giving Day. They share what makes this year’s effort especially meaningful, as all funds raised will support the Annual Fund, which helps provide student scholarships and teacher benefits beyond the standard budget. Listeners will le...

On this week’s episode, Mr. Nees is joined by historian Dr. Jason Edwards, professor at Grove City College, and HCA Upper School teacher Mr. Weiland for a timely and thoughtful conversation. Together, they reflect on the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, exploring the enduring relationship between faith and freedom and asking a key question: What role does education play in shaping...

This week, we’re excited to introduce Sarah Klein, the theater director behind HCA’s growing theater program. Sarah shares her vision for theater at HCA, what makes the program such a meaningful experience for students, and how creativity, confidence, and collaboration come to life on stage. Join us as we explore how the arts are flourishing at HCA—and what’s ahead for students passionate about pe...

Welcome back to The Griffin Rundown . We hope everyone enjoyed a joyful and restful Easter break. In this episode, we’re back with key announcements and important reminders to help you stay informed as we move into the coming weeks—followed, as always, by our much‑anticipated Joke of the Week.

Welcome back to The Griffin Rundown . We hope everyone enjoyed a restful and refreshing spring break. In this episode, we return with important announcements to keep you informed and up to date, followed by our much‑anticipated Joke of the Week.

In this episode Mr. Nees sits down with Rick Eimers and Katie Anne Mann to share the heart behind HCA’s Rhetoric School Mentoring Program. Together they discuss how mentoring strengthens the partnership between teachers and parents, helping reach the heart of each student with the truth of God’s Word. Grounded in John 20:31, the conversation highlights the program’s aim to point students to Christ...

In this week’s episode, we are pleased to feature a local ministry highlight: Emmaus Theological Seminary. Mr. Nees sits down with Rev. Cory Wilson PhD, President and Co‑Founder, for a thoughtful conversation about the origins of Emmaus, the vision behind its founding, and why this ministry plays a vital role in Northeast Ohio today. They also discuss who can benefit most from attending the semina...

In this special edition of The Griffin Rundown , we honor the remarkable educators who faithfully serve our school community every day. In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, we are pleased to share heartfelt words of gratitude from our families and students. Through their messages, we reflect on the profound impact our teachers make—both in and beyond the classroom. Join us as we celebrate...

In this week’s episode, Mr. Nees and Mr. Bond discuss The Wolf in Their Pockets by Chris Martin, a timely exploration of how social media shapes the way we think, feel, and understand ourselves. Their conversation highlights how entertainment and identity have become increasingly intertwined in the digital age—and how the distortion of human purpose often follows when we give our attention to the...

This week on The Griffin Rundown , Associate Head of School Daniel Bond and Pastor Jason Piland join Mr. Nees for a thoughtful and encouraging conversation on family devotions. Together, they explore Deuteronomy 6 and the father’s role in pointing children to who God is. The discussion highlights practical ways families can cultivate rhythms of discipleship—including prayer, Scripture, and singing...

We are excited to welcome author, speaker, and pastor Tim Challies to the podcast! He joins Mr. Nees for a thoughtful conversation about wisely managing and shepherding our lives in a tech‑driven age. He will be speaking at Heritage on February 26 on this topic. Mr. Challies also shares several helpful resources for families navigating the digital world. Plus, we have got the latest news from arou...

This week on The Griffin Rundown , we are taking a short pause from new interviews and bringing you a Griffin Rundown Rewind! It’s the perfect time to revisit an episode you loved or catch up on one you may have missed. Our archive is full of great conversations, insights, and stories—so dive back in and enjoy a favorite moment or discover something new. We’ll return next week with a brand‑new int...

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown , Mr. Nees sits down with Nolan Grame, Academic Dean and Humanities teacher, for a rich conversation about the purpose and power of a great classics education. Together, they explore the philosophy and theology that shape our classical approach to education—why the Great Books endure, how they form the imagination, and what makes them so essential in shaping...

In this episode, we sit down with Peninsula teacher Beth Smith and continue t to explore a question at the heart of classical education: Why do we read the great works? Drawing from her years of experience at HCA, Beth unpacks how timeless literature shapes students’ imaginations, forms their moral reasoning, and helps them see the world with clarity and compassion. Whether you're a parent, educat...

In this episode of The Griffin Rundown , Mr. Nees welcomes special guest Mr. Jim Parkin to dive into some of the great books that students read in the Upper School at Heritage. These works are shining examples of the classical Christian education that all Heritage students receive—cultivating lifelong learners who think and live for Christ. Along the way, we’ll also share important announcements a...

In this week’s episode, we ease back into the new year and share updates on what’s happening around campus. Join us for a quick check-in as we prepare for an exciting season ahead. We’ll return next Tuesday with our full content lineup and a brand-new interview you won’t want to miss!