“We have to stay true to our core mission, which is creating transformational materials for students’ lives. We can’t forget the trust that teacher is going to put in BJU Press to be able to create a product that can actually mean success in that classroom.” — Steve Dickinson

“The content is so important, and the delivery is going to flex. We can’t get hung up on the delivery mechanisms, because it's going to change and change and change.” — Steve Dickinson

Merry Christmas Teacher Edition podcast listeners! As we wrap up the 2025 calendar year, Jenny sits down with the CEO of BJU Press to share in a special holiday conversation. Steve shares his unique journey from accountant to CEO, revealing how growing up in an educator’s home and marrying a teacher has shaped his heart for Christian education. 

Discover the story behind BJU Press’s mission to create transformational materials that serve both the classroom and homeschool educators. Steve opens up about the delicate balance between embracing new educational technology like AI while maintaining the irreplaceable role of teachers. He addresses one of education’s most pressing challenges — the rise of cheating and lying — and why character development matters as much as academic excellence. 

Whether you’re fighting holiday traffic or relaxing with family, this encouraging conversation reminds us that Christian education is generationally changing and that your work as an educator truly makes an eternal difference. From the mimeograph days to AI integration, hear how BJU Press remains committed to equipping teachers for the daily grind while never forgetting what happens in real classrooms with real students.  

About Our Guest

Steve Dickinson currently serves as the CEO of BJU Press. After graduating with an accounting degree from Bob Jones University, Steve worked in the finance industry, including as the vice president of global finance reporting for InterContinental Group PLC in the United Kingdom. For 11 years, he served as executive director of finance and operations and then CFO of BJU Press and was instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint in China and Southeast Asia. After serving for five years as CFO and then vice president of business and finance at BJU, Inc., Steve returned to BJU Press in 2023. His wife, Cindy, serves as a national consultant for 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]

“Get your arsenal ready, because when parents ask, ‘Oh, what would you like? Is there anything I can get you for your classroom?’ I always say I can’t think of anything right now. And then I regret it later because I wish I would have thought of something, because they’re so generous and sweet about wanting to get things that help the class, their child, their child’s teacher.” – Katie Klipp

Welcome back to Part Two of this fun series, where Jenny and Katie continue sharing their favorite classroom tools! If you’re looking for last-minute gifts for colleagues or creative ways to spend that gift card you received, this episode is packed with practical ideas. While Part One focused on student engagement and classroom management tools, Part Two is all about productivity and efficiency. From magnetic ceiling hooks to robot vacuums, they share the functional tools that save time, reduce stress, and help teachers be more productive in their daily work.

Tools & Toys Mentioned in This Episode:

For Classroom Setup & Organization:

For Hands-On Productivity:

For Student Learning & Communication:

For Teacher Workspace & Efficiency:

For Presentations & Recording:

For Classroom Maintenance:

Katie and Jenny share many practical, functional tools that streamline your work and make teaching more efficient. Remember, you don’t need every tool to be successful, but these extras can be game-changers that make your life easier and your classroom more productive. Start with one or two that resonate with your biggest pain points and build from there.

Special Thanks to Our Listeners:

Listener-Submitted Favorite Tools:

Balloon inflator Balloon Pump Electric – a quick way to inflate beach balls, balloons, anything…

Tiny Pump X Portable – a great inflater for beach balls or other inflatables

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 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 over twenty years. She also assists at BJU Press 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]

Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at https://TeacherEditionPodcast.com.

“One tool can make such a difference in your classroom. This one little thing that I added to my classroom or that somebody suggested to me has made such a huge difference.” — Katie Klipp

As the Christmas season approaches, many educators receive thoughtful gifts from students and families—mugs, candy, gift cards, and fuzzy blankets. But what if you could create a wish list of items that would actually transform your classroom? Tools that engage students, simplify classroom management, and bring joy to everyday learning?

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny welcomes Katie Klipp back to the show for a special “teacher toolbox” holiday gift guide session. Instead of the typical educational strategies, they’re sharing their favorite classroom tools and toys. These small items can make a huge difference inside the classroom. From buzzers to Bluetooth speakers, from Ozobots to sound machines, they explore creative ways to engage students and make learning more magical.

Tools & Toys Mentioned in This Episode:

(Note: Links are for reference and may be to similar items to those mentioned on the show)

For Student Engagement & Reinforcement:

For Classroom Management & Transitions:

For Enhanced Learning & Technology:

For Organization & Literacy:

Katie and Jenny share many practical, affordable ideas that can transform your classroom environment. Remember, you don’t have to implement everything at once—start with one tool that resonates with you and watch the difference it makes.

Special Note to Listeners:

Come back next week for Part 2 of our Teacher Wishlist series, where Jenny and Katie will focus on tools that streamline your work to make it more enjoyable, efficient, and productive.

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

Sponsored By

Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at https://TeacherEditionPodcast.com.

“We have feelings and perspectives, and therefore, we need to be Spirit led.” – Travis Moots

Whether you are struggling with burnout at the moment or know someone who is, this episode is for you. If you are currently thinking and feeling, “I just can’t do this anymore,” Jenny has an encouraging guest for you — Travis Moots. Travis has served in Christian education for many years and is currently serving as a pastor, as well.  

There is a lot on teachers’ plates as they hold various roles and responsibilities. 

Travis helps educators identify and understand burnout by addressing these common questions: 

Travis shares how to manage teacher stress through proper boundaries, letting go of perfectionism, and allowing time to rest and replenish. There is a connection between spiritual-emotional maturity and handling stress, so Travis shares how educators can build emotionally healthy resilience. As the saying goes, “If God has called you to this, He will provide you what you need every day.” There is hope for the weary and practical help for those who are feeling like they are reaching their limit. 

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

Dr. Travis Moots has served in Christian education for many years. He was an educator at Hilltop Christian School in Fuquay-Varina, NC, where he served for twenty-four years, including twenty-two years as school principal. He is currently the pastor at Freedom Way Church in Hubert, NC, where he has pastored for two years.

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]

“Culture is everything. If your culture is not right, nothing else is going to be right. You can have the best curriculum; you can have the best facilities, but if your culture is toxic, people are not going to want to be there.” — Delana Carter

Culture is a huge component of every school. There can be a huge variety of climates — from a disorganized or less-than-welcoming school to a very connected and vibrant community. So how do educators cultivate an environment in which both students and educators love to come to school? 

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Delana Carter, who has a passion to create a welcoming environment for staff, parents, and students. She goes above and beyond to cultivate a positive experience for all involved at her school.

Ideas Discussed:

Delana shares many other practical ideas to help get started and continue to boost the morale and climate of the school. You can find many options to implement in this episode. Remember, you don’t have to change your whole school tomorrow — start small, and start with those closest to you. You CAN make a difference in your school’s climate.

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

Delana Carter has degrees in elementary education and language and literacy, and she currently serves as elementary supervisor at Calvary Christian School in King, NC.  She has taught elementary and community college and has been in both public and Christian education.  In 2022, she started the Student Success program at Calvary Christian with the goal of helping the school climate, improving teacher appreciation, and helping high school students prepare for post-secondary education, either by trades or by earning a college degree. She found that her role as Student Success Director was leading her to deeper involvement in the personal lives of students, so after additional training, she became a youth mental health coach two years ago. In addition to now also being elementary supervisor, Delana coaches middle school girls’ basketball alongside her husband, who is the athletic director and varsity boys’ basketball coach. She and her husband both graduated from Calvary Christian, and they have three daughters.

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]

“We are a quick-fix society, and perseverance is suffering.” – Jonathan Williams 

“Grief is a process. Some days there are small grief moments, and some days are big grief moments.” – Jonathan Williams

Gratitude is a common theme this time of year in classrooms, families, and churches. While it is wonderful to have a dedicated month focusing on gratitude, it is something we need to focus on all year long, no matter the circumstances of life. Through life’s victories and trials, focusing on gratitude is important.  But how do we focus on gratitude in the midst of heartache and suffering? 

Jenny sits down with Jonathan Williams, a fellow educator with an impacting testimony of God’s grace. In this deeply personal and powerful conversation, Jonathan courageously shares his journey through deep loss and how he has learned to choose gratitude even in the darkest seasons, even inside the classroom. 

Key Topics Discussed:

Jonathan encourages us to persevere when walking through suffering, not just around it.  His testimony demonstrates that choosing hope and gratitude doesn’t mean denying the pain, but rather invites us into finding God’s presence even in the hardest moments. This episode is for teachers who are seeking wisdom facing their own suffering and provides powerful tools to help students, as well.

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

Jonathan Williams has a deep passion for Christian education and believes that teaching is a calling. He is a proud alumnus of Valley Christian Academy in Southern California, where he not only accepted Jesus into his heart at the age of eight but also grew up. He considers his former fourth grade teacher, the current principal of the school, one of his mentors in life. Currently, he is a fourth grade teacher himself and the spiritual formation coordinator at the elementary campus, where he partners with the principal to coordinate engaging Christ-centered worship experiences. Jonathan is passionate about spiritual formation in education and in life. He holds a bachelor's degree in human development and psychology with a minor in Biblical studies, as well as a masters in teaching. Jonathan is a published author and enjoys writing most about characters who persevere despite perceivably insurmountable odds. He seeks to live out his life verse, Galatians 2:20. He currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with his wife. 

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]

“God has given us built-in senses to help us learn the world around us.” — Jamie Meachum

“You have all different types of learners, and it might just be the thing for one of those learners that makes something click for them.” — Jamie Meachum

Master teachers do a great job of cross-subject connections. In this episode, we explore the world of science — but not just limited to science class. Jenny welcomes fellow BJU Press consultant Jamie Meachum to discuss how every educator can help students discover the wonders of God’s creation through scientific thinking and observation.  

We’ll discuss topics such as:

Science naturally connects reading, math, writing, and other subjects. Jamie encourages teachers to look for those organic connections, further enriching students’ understanding.  

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 Jamie Meachum

With over twenty years of teaching experience, Jamie Meachum has been a classroom teacher in a private school, a substitute teacher in both public and private education, and a student teacher supervisor. She enjoys sharing ideas and strategies for making learning enjoyable in all forms of education. Jamie is currently a national consultant for 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]

“We have held Christianity back in the public square for too long.” — Ben Schettler

Recently there have been a number of impacting events—events that have hit close to home and bear on the work educators do every day. The tragic killing of Charlie Kirk is one which particularly hits hard. Jenny sits down with former guest and host of The Biblical Worldview Podcast, Ben Schettler, who had a connection with Charlie and was able to attend the funeral. Courageously, Ben has had a frontline perspective and public square conversations with people, including a recent visit to New York City.

Critical Questions Addressed:

This episode challenges teachers to consider how they’re preparing students for cultural engagement with courage rooted in biblical truth. Ben emphasizes the importance of not holding Christianity back in the public square and equipping students to be victors, not victims.

Ben reminds us of two important foundational truths from Scripture: 

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” – Ephesians 6:12 KJV

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…” – Romans 1:16 KJV

Resources Mentioned:

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 Ben Schettler:

Ben Schettler is the founder and CEO of The Center for Truth in Love. For over fifteen 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 Direct TV 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 and son 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]

 “You can’t be anything you want to be; you can be anything God wants you to be. You can be more of who God created you to be.” – Rebecca Weier

Many teachers have heard the question from students, “What’s the point?” Rebecca Weier, a teacher with more than thirty years of experience, joins Jenny on the podcast to help connect the dots between daily school work and their futures. Rebecca has a passion for helping students (and teachers) discover their purpose and calling so they can be more of who God created them to be.  

Rebecca shares some practical ways to empower students to develop realistic goals in order to walk out what they feel God has called them to do. She also shares some thought-provoking questions to spur on students’ ideas.  

Knowing there may be some educators who are wondering whether they are fulfilling their God-given purpose, as well, Rebecca’s wisdom and encouragement in this episode can help. 

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

Rebecca Weier holds a BS in mathematics education, an MS in personnel services, and an EdD in higher education leadership. She has more than thirty years of teaching experience on the high school and university levels. She and her husband have four children and two grandchildren and serve in a variety of ministries at their local church. She is currently a national consultant for BJU Press.

Sponsored By 

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“Don’t replace tasks that make you think or make your students think. Thinking is a good thing, and we don't want to replace that. Don’t replace the human connection. This is how God made us.” –Jenny Copeland 

The thing about AI is that it may just highlight what we as human teachers CAN do. AI needs teachers. Only educators can bring certain elements to the table. We can use it to be transformational inside our classrooms. Jenny explores where AI is headed and shares predictions from Big Tech companies, from the workforce and content creation to adapting inside the education system with academic and emotional support. Through the Gartner Hype Cycle, Jenny is hopeful that AI will reach a plateau of productivity where it will be helpful rather than a distraction.  

Great teachers will never be replaced by AI, but those who refuse to learn AI may be replaced by teachers who choose to embrace this tool. Only humans can bring the connection and relationship piece.  

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]

Resources Mentioned:

“Control -Alt- Achieve” by Eric Kurtz 

“AI For School Leaders” by Vickie F. Echols

“How to Teach AI” by Rachelle Dene Poth

“Storytelling with Purpose” by Michael Hernandez

“Learning First, Technology Second” by Liz Kolb

“Learning Technology, “ by Liz Kolb

“From the Garden to the City” by John Dyer