In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny has the privilege of speaking with Ron Gordon, who leads the REAP Division at RenewaNation. Ron shared invaluable insights into how their organization is equipping and strengthening Christian schools—whether they are just launching or undergoing renewal efforts. With a background in corporate leadership and a deep commitment to Kingdom impact, Ron brings a wealth of knowledge on what it takes to build and sustain thriving Christian schools.

Here are three key takeaways from the conversation:

Inspiring educators to see beyond the challenges, Ron reiterates that the journey of shepherding Christian schools, whether they're just an idea or seeking rejuvenation, is a mission rooted in eternal significance. Empowered by resources, mentorship, and community, this episode encourages schools to rise and answer their call, impacting the next generation with a foundation built on truth.

"There's just so many different aspects the leader of a Christian school has to deal with and understand: spiritual development, academics and instruction, financials, marketing, donor development facilities. You've just got so many different things that are on the plate of the administrator." — Ron Gordon

Resources & Links:

About Our Guest

Ron Gordon leads the REAP Division of RenewaNation and has shepherded dozens of Christian school launches and renewal efforts over the past decade. Before joining RenewaNation, Ron spent 23 years in the corporate world, leading manufacturing organizations, mainly in the defense sector. Ron and his wife, Tonya, who also serves at RenewaNation, are passionate about developing Kingdom stewards for the next generation. They have been married for 30 years and are blessed with three children: twin sons and a 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]

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"We have to teach our students it's okay to ask questions." — Pam Litzenberger

Do you have something that sends shivers down your spine with anxiety, no matter how hard you prepare or work? For many students, that something is math, inducing feelings of anxiety. How can educators tackle this? How can they offer support while also challenging their students to overcome these fears?

In today's episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland and guest Pam Litzenberger, a seasoned math teacher and national consultant for BJU Press, discuss the commonly experienced topic of math anxiety — a prevalent issue among students and educators alike. 

Key Takeaways:

Pam's helpful strategies remind us that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about understanding and addressing the needs of each student. By fostering a positive and supportive math environment, we can help students build confidence and overcome their anxiety. 

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!

Resource

BJU AfterSchoolHelp https://afterschoolhelp.com/

About Our Guest

With 32 years of experience in the classroom teaching grades 3–9, Pam has a passion for helping other teachers. After teaching different subjects and grades in both Georgia and Texas, she found teaching middle school math to be her favorite age and subject. After teaching for several years in Texas, she and her family moved to Greenville, South Carolina, where she continued to teach. There she headed up the implementation of an iPad lab and began “flipping” some of her classes, resulting in steady positive progress among the slower learners. She had the unique opportunity to teach at Camp Infinity for the inaugural summer of the STEM camp at the Creation Museum. Most recently, she has taught girls’ Bible, digital literacy, and pre-algebra. She currently serves as a national consultant for BJU Press, representing the secondary subjects.

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

In Part One of this series, Jenny Copeland and Dr. Bruce Meyer discussed the importance of understanding the emotion of anger. They dove into the biblical perspective of what anger is, how anger has impacted the culture, and why anger is not necessarily an issue of self-control. In this episode, Bruce continues to share insights into this strong emotion.  

Jenny and Bruce discuss topics including:

Bruce gives a strong foundation and a backpack of tools teachers can use while working with students who are struggling with anger. By utilizing these scriptural principles, educators can profoundly impact their students’ lives. It’s a powerful reminder that transformation begins in the heart.  

“Anger is not just about managing behavior but guiding students towards a deeper heart transformation led by the Spirit.” —Bruce Meyer

Every day in the classroom is your day to impact and inspire through God's power and also through his grace working in you. Go do what God has called you to do. 

About Our Guest

Dr. Bruce Meyer holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Bob Jones University and MDiv and DMin (biblical counseling) degrees from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary. He has been in education since 1993 and in higher education since 2001. He has served as a school administrator, assistant pastor, and pastor. After 19 years at Maranatha Baptist University, he joined the seminary faculty at BJU in 2021. Bruce’s counseling specialties include abuse recovery, trauma, and addictions. Married to Kathy since 1987, together they have four children and four grandchildren.

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

Education goes beyond textbooks—it’s about speaking into students’ lives academically, spiritually, and emotionally.  Every student carries emotions, victories, insecurities, and struggles, including anger.  

In this helpful episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Dr. Bruce Meyer. Bruce not only is serving as a professor of biblical studies and counseling but has years of experience in education and pastoring. Jenny and Bruce sit down to discuss the impact of anger in the classroom and how teachers can reach and support students when faced with this emotion.  

Through real-life examples in the classroom and biblical teachings, Bruce helps equip teachers with practical tools and perspective to address anger not as a behavior alone but as a deeper heart issue.  

Key Takeaways:

As we’ve explored the complexities of anger and its impact on students and the classroom, it’s clear that understanding and addressing this emotion requires more than a surface-level strategy. In Part Two, Jenny and Bruce will talk about how to address the heart of the matter in anger and provide more tangible tools for the classroom. Don’t miss the next episode as we continue this important conversation.  

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!

‘This is a God-given emotion, intended for self-defense, but when misused, it becomes destructive.” — Bruce Meyer

About Our Guest

Dr. Bruce Meyer holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Bob Jones University and MDiv and DMin (biblical counseling) degrees from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary. He has been in education since 1993 and in higher education since 2001. He has served as a school administrator, assistant pastor, and pastor. After 19 years at Maranatha Baptist University, he joined the seminary faculty at BJU in 2021. Bruce’s counseling specialties include abuse recovery, trauma, and addictions. Married to Kathy since 1987, together they have four children and four grandchildren.

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

“Men and women are different, and these differences should be seen not through an evolutionary or competitive perspective, but as an integral part of God's design.” — Ben Schettler

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, host Jenny Copeland sits down with Ben Schettler, founder and CEO of The Center for Truth in Love. Ben brings his expertise on engaging the next generation — Gen Z and Gen Alpha — with truth and love amid a rapidly changing cultural landscape. They uncover a variety of lies about identity, love, and communication and discuss how educators can help students build a strong worldview despite the overwhelming worldview deficits and challenges students are dealing with each day.  

Important topics discussed: 

Ben states, “They don’t know who they are. They don’t know how to love. They don’t know how to disagree,” and reminds educators of their unique opportunity to shape the lives of their students with biblical truth, while instilling hope and purpose for “such a time as this.”  Encourage open dialogue and foster classroom discussions where students can explore and understand different perspectives while also holding onto Biblical foundational truths. Ben also provides educators with multiple resources to help do this well.  

Every day in the classroom is your day to impact and inspire through God's power and also through his grace working in you. Go do what God has called you to do. 

Resources:

The Center for Truth in Love https://www.thecenterfortruthinlove.org/

The Center for Truth in Love TV Show https://www.thecenterfortruthinlove.org/truth-in-love-tv-show

Kingdom Education Ministries https://kingdomeducationministries.com/

Lies Aren’t Love: Text “Prepared” to  33777 to get free resources

About Our Guest: Ben Schettler is the founder and CEO of The Center for Truth in Love. For over 15 years, The Center for Truth in Love has been equipping churches to speak the Bible’s truth in love to the difficult challenges facing culture. Ben is a frequent national conference speaker, hosts The Biblical Worldview Show Podcast and The Truth in Love Show — syndicated on DISH and DIRECTV through the Christian Television Network. In addition to serving as the faith outreach advisor to Dr. Ben Carson, Ben is the author and producer of five cultural engagement curricula including Gospel Evidences, Lies Aren’t Love, and Love Chooses Life. Ben lives with his wife Makenzie and son Cranston in Pensacola, Florida.

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

“If you look around a classroom of 25 to 30 students, you can count on 16 to 20 of them have experienced at least one ACE.” — Erin Yezbick

More and more our students are coming to us educators with some type of experience that has caused trauma in their lives. Christian schools and students are no exception. Although trauma can be difficult to identify and to address, we can learn empowering tools from Jenny’s guest, Erin Yezbick, ACE Master Trainer and Grief Recovery Specialist. Join them on this episode to discuss this important topic of how to deal with the effects of trauma in our students through offering grace, understanding, and emotional security for every child.  

Jenny and Erin dive into:

Throughout this conversation, Erin helps raise awareness for us as educators to recognize students with traumatic experiences and those who may be suffering in silence. As Christian educators, we have the opportunity to speak truth in each of these students' lives — that they are not alone and that they are loved by their teachers and principals and by a kind, all-knowing, all-powerful God who loves them individually. God will never leave them and will always be the rock they can run to.  

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!

“But what they’re really saying is, I can trust you with my emotions. If I’m having a really bad day, I want you there.” — Erin Yezbick

About Our Guest

Erin has been an educator for over two decades. She is an ACE Master Trainer for the state of South Carolina, an assessment specialist through James Madison University, and a Grief Recovery Specialist. She regularly speaks to teachers about trauma in the classroom, rigor, assessment, and accreditation. She also serves as a consultant, research designer, and professional development speaker for Christian schools. She is passionate about helping Christian education update and improve to meet the needs of the newest generation of students.

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

Jenny Copeland sits down and talks with Marc Popovici, head of Schaumburg Christian School in Schaumburg, Illinois. Marc’s story is similar to many educators in today’s culture. He is able to relate to many educators who are questioning whether they want to make the seemingly intimidating shift from teaching inside the public school to exploring education within private Christian schools.

In this episode, Marc opens up about his personal journey and the factors influencing his transition, shedding light on the broader trend of educators moving to Christian education due to cultural and educational shifts. He shares compelling experiences and observations from both his public school career and his current role, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of each environment.

Topics Covered:

Marc also discusses the integration of a biblical counseling center into Schaumburg Christian School’s curriculum and its significance in addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of students. The episode explores the importance of collaboration between Christian schools, professional development for educators, and the role of faith in education.

Whether you have personally moved from a public education environment or work with someone who has, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. From balancing work and personal life to fostering spiritual growth and professional networks, Jenny and Marc’s conversation is helpful for anyone involved in Christian education.

Remember to like, comment, share, and review the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and social media platforms. We look forward to your feedback and hope this episode inspires and supports you in your educational journey.

Don’t forget to visit our website to submit questions for upcoming episodes and to engage with us on social media.

About Our Guest

Marc Popovici has been the head administrator of Schaumburg Christian School since 2022. Before his role at SCS, he was in public education for ten years as a teacher, aide, and coach. Growing up in a Christian home and Romanian-ethnic church, he sees how God has prepared him throughout his life for this role, and he draws on his experiences to ensure SCS makes a life-changing impact on the SCS community. He loves the Lord and makes sure that he does everything centered around Him and for His glory alone. 

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/teachereditionpo

“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