The Griffin Rundown

In this week’s Griffin Rundown, Mr. Nees welcomes Sandy Trado, a seasoned CPA and proud HCA grandparent, for an engaging and informative conversation about the Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO). Together, they delve into the purpose and impact of the SGO, explaining how this program transforms state tax dollars into meaningful scholarships for HCA students. Sandy shares practical insights on what it takes to participate, outlining the steps donors can follow to redirect their tax liability toward educational opportunities. The discussion highlights not only the financial benefits for contributors but also the profound difference these scholarships make in the lives of families and students within the HCA community. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or friend of HCA, this episode offers a clear and compelling look at how generosity and strategic giving can open doors for future generations. Tune in and discover how you can turn taxes into opportunities for students to thrive.

In this week’s Griffin Rundown, we’re excited to introduce the newest member of our Admin Team—Mrs. Liz Fruh, our Director of Finance. Tune in to learn more about her role and what she brings to the team. Plus, we’ll share the latest news from around campus and wrap things up with Reagan’s always-entertaining Joke of the Week.

This week on the Griffin Rundown, Mr. Nees sits down with Dr. Denny King, a devoted Heritage father, Doctor of Nursing Practice, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Dr. King serves as an instructor at Case Western Reserve University and is the founder of Kindred Family Care. With extensive experience as a clinician, professor, counselor, researcher, author, and consultant, Dr. King is passionate about serving children, adolescents, and their families through competent, compassionate psychiatric care rooted in Christian faith. In this conversation, they discuss why families seek his care, the impact of screens and technology, and how parents can model healthy habits and gospel-centered living. Dr. King emphasizes that Scripture is sufficient for every trial, that our children need us to be present and intentional, and that modeling the gospel in everyday life matters. He reminds us that God holds both us and our kids, offering hope and encouragement for parents navigating today’s challenges.

Disclaimer: The views expressed by Dr. King in this episode reflect his own opinions and those of Kindred Family Care, and do not represent the views of Case Western Reserve University.

In this week’s episode of The Griffin Rundown, we bring you a special recording from our Annual Dinner held on Friday, November 7th. Hear from Dr. Jason Valley, HCA Upper School teacher and keynote speaker for the evening, as he shares inspiring insights on the theme “Love Others.” Join us for this meaningful message that reflects the heart of our community and mission.

In this week’s episode of The Griffin Rundown, Mr. Nees sits down with Jonathan Holmes, MA—author of Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ and Executive Director of Fieldstone Counseling. With over fifteen years of pastoral experience at Parkside Church and Parkside Green, Jonathan brings deep biblical insight and practical wisdom to the conversation.

Together, they explore the five core areas where teens often struggle with identity: sports, academics, moralism, sexual orientation, and gender confusion. Jonathan shares how parents can guide their children through these challenges by anchoring their identity in the gospel of grace rather than external pressures or internal doubts.

Listeners will gain:

• A biblical framework for understanding identity formation
• Practical tools for gospel-centered conversations with teens
• Reflection questions to foster self-examination and spiritual growth

This episode encourages parents to play a vital role in helping their children build a secure, Christ-centered identity—one rooted in truth, grace, and hope.

In this fourth installment of the Building Study Kids series, Mr. Nees sits down with Mr. Scott Hatteberg, Head of Upper School, for a conversation on guiding children through life’s challenges. Together, they explore the importance of allowing kids to struggle and learn to navigate on their own, creating teachable moments, and turning problems into opportunities for dialogue.

The discussion also touches on helping students grow in their faith, teaching them to advocate for themselves, and remembering to keep joy and fun at the center of the journey. Plus, don’t miss our campus updates and the always-popular Joke of the Week.

Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, practical insights, and encouragement for parents.