“We often think they need to respect us as the teacher, but we also need to be respectful of them. They are made in the image of God. They have value as individuals. They are somebody's child. We absolutely need to show them respect. And that means the tone in which we talk to them is so important.”- Marc Koster

Whether you are a seasoned educator or new to the classroom, classroom management can make or break your classroom. It touches every aspect and area inside the daily classroom. In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Marc Koster, educator for 15 years and now principal, to discuss the important role of classroom management in creating a successful learning environment.  

Together, they cover guideposts for effective classroom management, including: 

Marc also addresses common classroom management challenges, such as whether the infamous “No smiling before Thanksgiving” rule really works and how to handle tough discipline moments with grace and authority. 

Packed with practical examples and actionable strategies, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher seeking to reset and regain control of their classroom. You’ll walk away encouraged and equipped to make positive changes today.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

Classroom Compass: Keys to Effective Classroom Management

About Our Guest

Marc Koster has served at Grace Junior and Senior High School in Simi Valley, California, since 1999. He taught history for 15 years before leaving the classroom for full-time administration five years ago. Marc is married to Jennifer, who is also an educator, and they have one daughter.  

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

"Involving prayer, wisdom, and discernment is crucial in the student enrollment process. It’s not just about the numbers but about ensuring the students align with our values." — Rachel Ladygo

With the continued slide of culture, the blatant agendas even in education, and the introduction of school choice and vouchers in many states, the admission process in Christian schools is seeing challenging days. While having an overabundance of prospective families and even student applicants would seem to be a long-awaited blessing, what else does it bring to the table?  

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, host Jenny Copeland engages in a discussion with Rachel Ladygo, a dedicated kindergarten teacher and assistant administrator at Gunnery Road Christian Academy in Lehigh Acres, Florida. With a significant rise in student enrollment driven by school choice and voucher programs, Rachel shares her experience and strategies for maintaining the school's mission amidst this growth. 

Throughout this engaging conversation, Jenny and Rachel discuss:

Inspiring schools to consider the balance between growth and staying true to their mission, Rachel emphasizes the need for open, honest communication with parents and the importance of ensuring a good fit between students and the school’s values. Schools are encouraged to forge strong partnerships with parents, guaranteeing that their educational values are reflected and experienced in every aspect of a child's learning experience.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Rachel Ladygo, an educator for nineteen years, is a kindergarten teacher and assistant administrator at Gunnery Road Christian Academy in Lehigh Acres, FL. She has a BS in emotional/behavioral disabilities and a MS in educational leadership from Bob Jones University. Rachel grew up near Cleveland, Ohio, and enjoys traveling, cooking, coaching, and spending time with friends.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

“I would really think about STEM as solving real-world problems in a collaborative environment.” — Rachel Santopietro

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland sits down with Rachel Santopietro, an educator and leader in instructional design who is passionate about students experiencing the joy of learning, specifically through STEM. STEM is a wide topic and term which influences schools in various ways. Rachel helps us to define what STEM means and discover the value of integrating STEM into our educational experiences. 

Questions answered and explored by Rachel and Jenny regarding STEM: 

Whether you are teaching preschool, elementary school, middle school, or high school, STEM can be experienced now and can benefit students in the future to prepare students for jobs in the future. STEM impacts students both in academics and in general life skills. Persistence in problem solving, community connections, and developing biblical worldviews are just a few examples of how STEM can influence students.  

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

“STEM activities teach students persistence, collaboration, and community engagement—qualities they’ll carry into their future careers and daily lives.” — Rachel Santopietro

Listen to Rachel’s previous episode on Teacher Edition https://teachereditionpodcast.com/rachel-santopietro-embracing-a-growth-mindset-working-the-brain-like-a-muscle-ep-03/

About Our Guest

Rachel Santopietro is passionate about helping students find joy in learning as they engage, learn, and create. And she wants this enthusiasm to be contagious. The same sense of wonder that sparked her curiosity in childhood spurred her to pursue a degree in chemistry, a master’s degree in education, and a doc­torate in learning design and technology. She wants to share her passion as she draws from her teaching and writing experience to oversee Instructional Design for writing teams at BJU Press.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Each week Jenny encourages you, our listeners and educators, to connect with us by visiting our website to share your questions, stories, and insights. We have received many, and today’s episode is all about answering your questions. Each one is practical, thoughtful, and widely applicable to educators everywhere.  

In this episode, Jenny addresses key questions on the following topics:

- Admissions Testing

- Grading Practices

- Integrating Biblical Themes and Worldview in Math

- Balancing Grace and Discipline in the Classroom

- Effectively Engaging with Students

We value your questions on classroom strategies, parent collaboration, technology integration, and more. We look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions in future episodes.  

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Some days the front office can be calm and some days it can be quite chaotic.  In part two of our interview with Linda DeGroot, veteran school secretary and registrar, she continues to share Scripture-centered approach and heart behind the heavy lifting and the catch-all of the front office.  She shares how secretaries can handle and juggle the activities with joy and patience.  

Topics discussed on this episode:

Wrapping up the episode, Linda encourages the office staff by imparting they are not alone.  Linda reminds secretaries that God called us to be secretaries, and it is a ministry to God’s people.  Both encouraging and realistic, this conversation gives insight to what goes on in the front office of our schools. 

Every day in the classroom is your day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do! 

About Our Guest

Linda DeGroot has been taking care of details in the school office at Bay City Christian School for almost thirty  years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a non-profit emphasis, and when she accepted the Lord as her Savior in 1992, she knew that God wanted her to use her skills in ministry where she could impact people for the Lord.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Behind every school is a dedicated, hardworking team in the front office, working diligently to keep everything running smoothly and best partner with teachers and administrators . In this episode, Linda DeGroot joins Jenny to pull back the curtain on her experience as a school secretary, sharing the challenges and blessings that define a typical school day. Linda starts by sharing her foundational story of accepting Jesus as her Savior and how it impacted her journey in education. 

Topics discussed:

Linda provides valuable insights that can help educators appreciate the important role the front office plays at every school. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we will discuss managing chaotic office moments, creating a positive atmosphere, and ways teachers and administrators can best support the school office. 

Every day is your day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you.  

Go do what God has called you to do! 

About Our Guest

Linda DeGroot has been taking care of details in the school office at Bay City Christian School for almost thirty  years. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a non-profit emphasis, and when she accepted the Lord as her Savior in 1992, she knew that God wanted her to use her skills in ministry where she could impact people for the Lord.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

“Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach.” - Sarah Barker

Welcome back to part two of Jenny’s heartfelt conversation with Sarah Barker, former educator and current administrator. In the first part of Jenny’s conversation, Sarah shared invaluable insights on the common misconceptions and essential elements of building positive parent-teacher relationships. In this second part, Sarah and Jenny continue the conversation, diving deeper into practical strategies and real-life examples that teachers can implement to foster long-lasting, positive relationships with parents.

Highlighted Topics:

Sarah emphasizes the importance of not only communicating successes but also approaching challenges with humility and open-mindedness. The discussion also covers how modern communication tools can help in maintaining good relationships, and recognizing when flexibility and adaptability are needed to achieve the best outcomes.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Sarah has ministered at Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, for twenty-one years. She attended RCA from kindergarten until graduation in the year 2000. She was a full-time classroom teacher for eighteen years in the areas of kindergarten, elementary, middle school, high school, and music.  She then moved into administration and has been the elementary principal for three years.  Sarah also serves as an adjunct professor in the education department of a local Christian college.  It is her heartbeat to encourage teachers to have a passion for excellence in all that they do!

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

“To us, a student is one of many. But to a parent, their child is their world.” — Sarah Barker

Part One

As educators we have all had the opportunity to work with a parent who is difficult in one way or another.  It can be exhausting and stressful and honestly disruptive to what we are trying to accomplish as an educator.  Sarah Barker, an experienced educator and now administrator, joins Jenny Copeland on the Teacher Edition podcast to discuss navigating parent-teacher relationships.  Regardless of grade level taught, teachers need to interact with parents and cultivate those relationships.

Highlighted topics: 

Sarah also mentions that educators need to know how to communicate with parents—letting them know what is happening within your classroom, both for positive and negative feedback. We are humans, but God has put us right where we are to serve with and partner with these students—and their parents.

Curious about more actionable tips and real-life examples on fostering these crucial relationships? Tune in to the next episode, where Sarah dives deeper into how to maintain these connections over time, the importance of flexibility, and the impact of positive communication. 

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Sarah has ministered at Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, for 21 years. She attended RCA from kindergarten until graduation in the year 2000. She was a full-time classroom teacher for eighteen years in the areas of kindergarten, elementary, middle school, high school, and music. She then moved into administration and has been the elementary principal for three years. Sarah also serves as an adjunct professor in the education department of a local Christian college. It is her heartbeat to encourage teachers to have a passion for excellence in all that they do!

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

“Many times it has nothing to do with the teacher. It has something to do with their heart and their needs inside that need to be met." — Katie Klipp

Welcome back to Part Two of our conversation with Katie Klipp. Dealing with trying behaviors in the classroom can feel overwhelming; however, Katie, a veteran teacher, offers us a plethora of tools to help combat tricky behaviors. Katie emphasizes the importance of empathy, relationship building, and proactive teaching techniques.  

Discover how every child’s behavior is a reflection of deeper needs and how to implement methods to support students facing emotional and academic struggles. Katie shares her personal experiences and how they had a deep impact on her teaching philosophy.  

Key Takeaways:

Teachers are more than educators; they are leaders, mentors, and a lifeline for their students.  You may feel you are at the end of your rope. You are not alone in your struggles within the classroom. You have an impact. Stay in the fight. Stay in the race. And remember to stay PRO-active, not RE-active.  

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire — not in your own strength — but through God's power and his grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Katie holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in elementary education and has taught first grade at Bob Jones Academy in Greenville, SC, for twenty years. She also assists at BJUPress in writing, revising, and consulting. She enjoys hosting workshops for teachers and assisting teachers with classroom management, technology, and creative instruction.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

"We want to have our tool belts full of resources and strategies that we can use with these students. And that's where we fall short sometimes." — Katie Klipp

Have you ever had a day in your classroom where you felt like you spent more time dealing with behavior and shaping character than on any academic lessons? Managing disruptive behaviors can be exhausting and all-consuming. What do you say to the class clown, the incessant tattler, the student who just prefers to be disinterested in your class, or the non-stop bragger?  

On this practical, in-the-trenches episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Katie Klipp, a veteran teacher, to give you strategies on how to best deal with these and other behaviors and to hopefully give you a new understanding and a fresh approach to reaching these students. We see disruptive behaviors in students of all ages. Educators might run away from this kind of topic (and maybe even away from these kinds of students!), but in this episode we are facing it head on.  

Key highlights:  

"Creating a culture of care means immediate and thoughtful responses to unkind behaviors, nurturing both the victim and the aggressor."

Katie offers some valuable insights and tips for us educators. Don’t miss Part Two of this discussion, where we will talk about working with defiant and tough students, as well as the class clown.  

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire — not in your own strength — but through God's power and his grace working in you. 

Go do what God has called you to do!

Resources Mentioned:

The Power of Our Words by Paula Denton  https://a.co/d/3XujM5P

Tattling, Teasing, and Defiance and More by Margaret Wilson https://a.co/d/5KV77v4

https://www.responsiveclassroom.org/

About Our Guest

Katie holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in elementary education and has taught first grade at Bob Jones Academy in Greenville, SC, for twenty years. She also assists at BJUPress in writing, revising, and consulting. She enjoys hosting workshops for teachers and assisting teachers with classroom management, technology, and creative instruction.

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]

Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod