Revolutionizing Christian Education: 2026 Trends and Opportunities

The landscape of faith-based learning has shifted dramatically in recent years. What was once a choice between traditional private schools and homeschooling has expanded into a vibrant ecosystem of micro schools, co-ops, and hybrid models. In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Edmondson from the Herzog Foundation to explore the post-COVID boom in Christian education. Jonathan shares how the “modern one-room schoolhouse” is making a comeback and why parents are more empowered than ever to shape their children’s learning environments. Whether you are a parent looking for better options or an educator with a dream to start something new, this conversation provides the roadmap and the resources to make it happen.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The Post-COVID Shift: Why Christian education is experiencing unprecedented growth and how the “new normal” favors parental involvement. The Rise of Micro Schools: Understanding how these intimate, flexible learning environments offer a “modern one-room schoolhouse” experience. Empowering Parents & Educators: How the Herzog Foundation is removing the barriers to entry for starting new faith-based programs. Practical Steps to Start: Insights into the Herzog Foundation’s free eight-step online training process for school startups. A Shared Mission: Why the future of Christian education depends on community-driven, innovative solutions.   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Herzog Foundation TTD365 Membership– Were you not able to join us at TTD this year? Don’t miss out on the encouragement. Listen to all sessions through our membership!    ABOUT THE GUEST:  Jonathan Edmondson is the administrator of the SchoolBox and HF Homeschool programs at the Herzog Foundation, which have supported over 500 Christian school and homeschool launches in the past three years. A product of Christian education himself, Jonathan is a believer and advocate of a child’s education including Christian morality and discipleship, in addition to rigorous academic standards.   PODCAST SPONSOR: Hey homeschool families! I want to tell you about HF Homeschool. It’s a free, online guide to help you start a Christian homeschool group or co-op. You can go at your own pace, and if you finish the coursework, HF will even fund a mentor—a free coach to help your homeschool thrive. They’re also sponsoring the Teach Them Diligently conference, packed with workshops, resources, and fellowship with other Christian homeschool families. It’s a great way to connect, learn, and be encouraged in your homeschool journey. Check it out and sign up today at hfhomeschool.com!