“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

How do you assess when answers are readily available for students via AI? How can you detect whether a student has used AI on their assignments? Jenny challenges educators to stop chasing AI detection tools and instead redesign assessments that naturally resist misuse.

In this episode, Jenny reminds educators to remember the why behind assessments. Are we grading for growth or just filling gradebooks? AI forces us to examine whether our assessments have authenticity and connection, or if they have become busy work students want to shortcut.  

Jenny also discusses some key strategies for making assessments, as well as some essential policies to help clarify what is cheating and share what is permitted or prohibited within the classroom. She also shares some red flags to look for in a student’s work and how to encourage students to develop integrity in their work. 

Coming Next: The final episode—Being AI Ready.

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]

“In 2024, 66 percent of students reported using AI in some form for their studies. In 2025, 92 percent of students are reporting that they use AI in their studies. A 26 percent jump in usage in one year!” — Jenny Copeland

Are students using AI? How are students using AI? What tools are most popular? Jenny answers these questions with some eye-opening statistics about student AI usage and reveals how educators can shift the conversation from cheating to proper learning support.

Jenny discusses in further detail on this episode of Cyber Sense:

Even if AI is banned at your school, students are using it. Rather than fighting reality, Christian educators have the opportunity to guide students toward appropriate, God-honoring use of these powerful tools.

Coming Next: Reimagining Assessments in an AI World

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]

“Think of these AI tools as super excited, exuberant, ready-to-help student teachers or interns. They’re right there, ready to help.” – Jenny Copeland

On this episode of Teacher Edition in our Cyber Sense series, Jenny gives us a high flyover view of various AI tools to help educators navigate the overwhelming landscape of options available today. Jenny shares three main ground rules for choosing your AI platforms: 

Major AI Platforms Covered:

Education-Specific Tools:

Tools Within Existing Platforms:

Specialized Options:

Jenny addresses the common concern about whether using AI tools is “cheating” as an educator, comparing AI to a vacuum cleaner. It’s simply a tool that helps you work more efficiently so you can focus on what only you, as the human, can do.  

Coming up next in our series, Jenny talks about students’ use of AI and guidelines for classroom implementation.

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!

Resources Mentioned:

https://chatgpt.com/

https://chatgpt.com/g/g-2fkFE8rbu-dall-e?locale=en-US

https://sora.com

https://gemini.google.com/

https://copilot.microsoft.com/

https://www.canva.com/

https://www.briskteaching.com/

https://schoolai.com/

https://www.magicschool.ai/

https://quizlet.com/

https://edpuzzle.com/

https://padlet.com/

https://www.khanmigo.ai/

https://trekai.org/

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]

“The prompt is the key. That’s how you get where you’re going. That’s how you get to the endpoint that you’re looking for.” – Jenny Copeland

Have you ever been around a great baker or cook? They intuitively know how to tweak a recipe so the end product comes out just right. Jenny explains how this applies to AI and reveals the most important aspect of using AI effectively: the prompt.  

The prompt is the key to getting what you want and where you want to go with AI.  

Jenny discusses the six essential prompting tips:

The overarching golden rule is to assume that your prompt needs work, not the platform. Don’t blame AI for poor results; instead, refine your prompt. Jenny gives multiple examples with weak and strong prompts that will help you adjust your prompt engineering to produce more effective results.  

Coming next: Jenny looks at specific AI tools that are currently used in education.  

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!

“God has placed us right here, right now, for this. AI is not taking God by surprise. What a shame it would be to not take full advantage of the opportunity to speak into the lives of students in this area.” – Jenny Copeland

 “You are the moral checkpoint, and that’s where we cannot hand that off to AI.” – Jenny Copeland 

“Think of it like an intern. AI is here to help.” – Jenny Copeland 

What can AI do for you as an educator or as an administrator? And what are some cautions around AI? In this episode, Jenny answers these important questions and shares many practical ways you can implement AI within the classroom.  

Jenny shares the benefits of AI through:

-Administrative tasks

-Teaching applications

-Subject-specific uses

-Student support

Sharing some cautions, as well, Jenny discusses:

-Technical concerns

-Ethical issues

-Overreliance on AI for creativity and critical thinking

Overall, remember that you have an incredible tool at your fingertips, and you are the one who adds heart and human touch. AI should be viewed as a starting point and partner, not a solution or endpoint.  

Coming next episode: Practical, hands-on exploration of specific AI tools and platforms for educators.  

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!

Referenced Episode Mentioned:

Bryan Smith’s Understanding Work Through a Biblical Worldview

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]