The NorthStar Narrative

NorthStar Academy
  • 5.0 (47)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join us for inspiration and encouragement through real stories from around the globe. Students, parents, and scholars will share advice on many topics including college, online learning, homeschooling, health, faith, and navigating daily life. #educated To learn more about NorthStar Academy, visit us at nsa.school

  1. 5D AGO

    How Continual Surrender Shapes Faith, Marriage, and Ministry

    We trace a journey from college plans and depression to a daily practice of surrender that reshapes calling, marriage, and local mission. Chana shares life among refugees in Chicago’s West Ridge, why betrothal made theological sense, and how faithful presence changes a block. • Moody years shaping spiritual formation and resilience • Moving from one-time to ongoing surrender • Reframing missions beyond overseas to local presence • Practical care as credible gospel witness • Marriage as a picture of Christ and the church • Choosing betrothal and a two-ceremony path • Courage for clear invitations within trusted relationships • Support through prayer and newsletters

    38 min

  2. OCT 21

    How New Hope Christian Academy Turns Potential Into Purpose

    Lionel Cable joins us to share how a Christ-centered, whole child model in Memphis is opening doors for under-resourced families through rigorous academics, deep relationships, and a culture of joy. Lionel walks us through New Hope’s origin, outcomes, farm and forest learning, alumni support, and bold plans to expand. • founding vision rooted in urban Christian education • five keys of teaching, learning, discipleship, affordability, relationships • culture shaped by joyful hiring and mission clarity • campus highlights: renovated gym, forest, and farm • alumni support office guiding school choice and college • ways to help through prayer, volunteering, and giving

    46 min

  3. SEP 23

    Cultivating Goodness

    Laura Barringer shares her journey from kindergarten teacher to co-author with her father of "A Church Called Tov" and "Pivot," exploring how biblical goodness transforms Christian communities. • Tov is the Hebrew word for goodness appearing over 700 times in Scripture • Tov cultures are characterized by empathy, grace, truth-telling, and putting people first • Honest assessment requires asking for feedback and being willing to hear uncomfortable truths • Leaders must listen when the Holy Spirit disrupts their plans and ambitions • Healthy leadership uses power as Jesus did—often by giving it away rather than controlling others

    50 min

  4. SEP 9

    How Life Experiences Shape Your Ministry

    Lorelei Kilmer, a former NorthStar Academy student, shares her journey from being a third culture kid to discovering her calling in campus ministry with the Navigators after college graduation. • Spent three years at North Star Academy while her family served in Turkey • Found valuable community and spiritual formation through NorthStar's online education • Recently graduated college where she was deeply involved in ministry • Describes the challenges and blessings of being a Third Culture Kid (TCK) • Advises current students to be brave when facing transitions rather than fearful • Will be mentoring 5-6 college women through personal relationships while leading Bible studies on campus • Views her TCK background as an "identity gift" that helps her connect with diverse students • Shares how discipleship creates generational impact through spiritual multiplication

    23 min

  5. AUG 26

    Faith, Family, and Future: Guiding Students in College Decisions

    Tiffany Charles, Director of Admissions at Houston Christian University, shares her expertise and passion for helping students navigate the college admission process through a faith-centered approach. Her journey from homeschooling mom to higher education leader reveals how relationships and discipleship can transform educational experiences for students and families alike. • Biblical foundation for education based on Proverbs 22:6 and 2 Timothy 2:15 • Relational versus transactional approach to college admissions • College essays as opportunities to share your authentic self beyond test scores • College is financially possible regardless of circumstances—sticker price isn't what most students pay • Parents should start the college research process early, ideally by sophomore year • Every year of high school matters for building a strong academic foundation • Importance of prayer and seeking wisdom when feeling overwhelmed by college decisions

    32 min

  6. AUG 12

    NorthStar's Next Chapter

    NorthStar Academy celebrates a significant milestone with the formation of its first-ever independent governing board while maintaining its 27-year commitment to Christ-centered education and discipleship. The transition marks a new chapter of growth and development while keeping the school firmly anchored in its founding mission. • Board Secretary Katie Ahmadzai shares her transition from principal to board member to balance family needs while continuing to serve North Star's mission • Board Chairman Danny Coyle explains how his experience with international transitions and developing short-term leaders aligns with North Star's global vision • Both board members reflect on learning to trust God's provision through the process rather than seeking immediate solutions

    43 min

  7. JUL 1

    Entrepreneurial Mindset: Preparing Students for Real-World Success

    NorthStar Academy introduces Entrepreneurship 1, a course focused on building character, resilience, and real-world readiness rather than just teaching business fundamentals. Jen Sullivan brings her passion for student transformation to this innovative program that emphasizes growth mindset, grit, redefining failure, and opportunity seeking. • Developing essential life skills through entrepreneurship education • Focusing on character development over mere business content • Building "anti-fragile" students who can handle challenges • Embracing "progress over perfection" as a guiding principle • Creating collaborative learning experiences in an online environment • Transforming struggling students by giving them vision and purpose • Integrating biblical worldview with entrepreneurial thinking • Connecting students with resources, mentors, and real-world applications • Teaching practical business skills through a four-step process: ideation, creation, launch, and growth • Preparing students for life beyond high school regardless of career path

    40 min

  8. JUN 10

    How State Voucher Programs Can Expand Your Educational Choices

    Arkansas's AR Learns program provides homeschool families with funds that can be used for educational expenses, including NorthStar Academy's global online courses. As an approved service provider, NorthStar offers accredited curriculum aligned with state standards while connecting students with peers around the world, developing both academic knowledge and cross-cultural understanding. • NorthStar Academy is now an approved service provider for Arkansas's EFA program • Families can receive $1,716 per quarter beginning in the 2025-2026 school year • Funds can be used for curriculum, specialized classes, educational field trips, and more • Similar voucher programs exist in other states including Arizona and Florida • Online learning develops executive functioning and communication skills for college readiness • Global classroom experience connects students across multiple continents • Dual accreditation through ACSI and Cognia ensures quality standards For more information about NorthStar Academy, visit nsaschool.com or email info@nsa.school.

    16 min
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5
out of 5
47 Ratings

About

Join us for inspiration and encouragement through real stories from around the globe. Students, parents, and scholars will share advice on many topics including college, online learning, homeschooling, health, faith, and navigating daily life. #educated To learn more about NorthStar Academy, visit us at nsa.school

Information

  • Creator
    NorthStar Academy
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    252
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The NorthStar Narrative
  • Show Website
    The NorthStar Narrative