“I challenge our listeners today to write down one or two things they can take action on as we give these ideas on the show, so they will really make it happen in their classroom and not just keep a list of it somewhere and not use it.” — Katie Klipp

School is back in session, and one of the biggest challenges teachers face is getting meaningful participation from all students, not just the eager few who always raise their hands.

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, you will find so many practical ideas to facilitate student participation within the classroom. As Katie Klipp shares multiple ideas, she encourages you to take one idea and implement it in the classroom. Take action on the information given in this episode.

Katie emphasizes the biblical foundation of questioning, noting that God asked questions not because He didn't know the answers, but to help people understand. She challenges teachers to move beyond traditional hand-raising to embrace "total participation," where every student responds simultaneously.

You'll discover innovative techniques including:

Katie also provides practical solutions for engaging reluctant participants and motivating students without creating prize dependency. From flying stuffed animals to sound effect boxes, she shares creative motivators that build intrinsic engagement.

Ideas for participation include movement-based responses, visual cues, tactile activities, and digital tools that get every student actively involved in learning.

Ideas for the anxious participants focus on creating safe, supportive ways for hesitant students to share their thinking without the pressure of being singled out.

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 Checking for Understanding by Douglas Fischer and Nancy Frey

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 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.

"People first. Machine second. Remember that people are the currency of the kingdom of heaven. The person that you're supporting is more important than finishing the task." – Corey Cline

Everyone loves technology as long as it is working. When technology fails in the classroom, there’s no time for troubleshooting while students wait. That’s why having the right technology support is vital for schools today.  

Join Jenny as she sits down with Corey Cline, EdTech Specialist, who brings his unique perspective from his journey — from ministry to classroom teaching to being pulled into IT during COVID. He bridges the gap between the technical and educational sides of school technology.  

In this episode, you'll discover:

Corey emphasizes that successful educational technology support is about people first, machines second. He shares practical advice for schools of all sizes, from utilizing Managed Service Providers to empowering teachers with basic troubleshooting skills. You'll also hear his go-to digital tools and resources that actually work in the school environment.

This conversation is essential for administrators considering IT staffing, current tech support personnel, and teachers who want to better understand how to keep their classroom technology running smoothly.

When technology works well, teaching and learning can truly thrive.

Resources Mentioned by Corey:

Digital Tools & Platforms:

Online Communities:

Books:

About Our Guest Corey Cline serves as the EdTech at Foundation Academy in Winter Garden, FL. Prior to that role, Corey served in youth and education ministry for seven years, followed by four years in education. He served in public school for two years and private school for two years. COVID and the shift to digitizing education changed everything for him. He was pulled from the classroom to help a Christian school "go digital." He served there as a system administrator, mostly handling network and device needs, and then moved to Foundation Academy, where he has served in the IT space for the last three years. He served as the system administrator there for two years before moving into the EdTech space in 2024. Corey and his wife, Stephanie, enjoy time with their corgi and two cats.

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]

"It's okay to work yourself out of a job... Don't lean into the hero complex. That is a very real thing in the IT space. But instead, equip people to figure stuff out or to troubleshoot through an issue." – Corey Cline

In Part Two of this conversation on school choice, Jenny and our three expert guests dive deeper into the practical realities of implementing and managing school choice programs in Christian schools.

From operational changes to wish lists for improvement, this episode reveals the behind-the-scenes work required to successfully navigate school choice while maintaining Christian mission and identity. You'll hear about the administrative burden that comes with public funding, including full-time compliance officers, detailed state reporting, and expanded testing requirements.

These leaders share success stories of teacher salaries approaching 75% of public school levels, schools paying off buildings entirely with choice funds, and churches freed from facility costs to invest in ministry expansion.

The conversation explores the ideal models for school choice, with insights into why ESA (Education Savings Account) programs may be preferable to voucher systems, and what the future holds for educational freedom at both state and federal levels.

Whether your school is already participating in choice programs, considering participation, or simply wanting to understand where Christian education is headed, this episode provides practical wisdom from leaders who've successfully navigated these waters while maintaining their biblical mission.

You'll also gain insights into what's coming next, including potential federal expansion of school choice and how Christian schools can prepare for continued growth and opportunity in the educational freedom movement.

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 Guests

Andrew Fry is the principal of Colonial Christian School in Indianapolis, Indiana. He earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering and a master of arts in teaching in mathematics. With 12 years of experience in teaching and school leadership, Andrew is passionate about fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth in Christian education. He and his wife, Janna, have three children.

Dr. Michael Phillips holds undergraduate degrees in Bible and mathematics education. He also holds a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in educational leadership. He served in Christian schools in Virginia and North Carolina as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and administrator for 25 years before the Lord called him to Bay City Christian School in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In addition to his school responsibilities, Dr. Phillips is the executive director and accreditation chair for the Wisconsin Association of Christian Schools. He and his wife, Shellee, have four children.

Dr. Jeff Walton, executive director of AACS, holds a bachelor of science degree in education, a master of education degree, and a doctor of divinity degree. He has served in Christian education as a teacher, school administrator, state association director, and Bible college administrator. Through his work with AACS and other organizations, he has been influential in securing policies and legislation to protect the ministries of Christian schools. He has presented professional development workshops for Christian school teachers at many state and national conferences in the U.S. and at conferences in Romania and South Korea. His wife, Judylynn, also serves with him at AACS, and together they are very involved in local church ministry as well.

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.

School choice is transforming Christian education across America, but is it a blessing or a burden? This episode of the Teacher Edition podcast brings together three seasoned educators to discuss the real impact of school choice programs from national, state, and local perspectives.

Jenny sits down with Dr. Jeff Walton (Executive Director of American Association of Christian Schools) who provides national insights, Dr. Michael Phillips (Executive Director of Wisconsin Association of Christian Schools) who shares state-level experiences, and Andrew Fry (Principal of Colonial Christian School in Indianapolis) who offers ground-level perspective from a school that has experienced significant growth through school choice.

From increased enrollments to budget transformations, these educators reveal both the remarkable opportunities and genuine concerns that come with public funding following students to private Christian schools. You'll hear about schools growing from 70 to 290 students, budgets increasing from $340,000 to $3.2 million, and families finally able to afford the Christian education they'd only dreamed of.

These experienced educators also address the real challenges: potential government overreach, mission drift temptations, accreditation requirements, and the risk of becoming too dependent on public funding. They explore the balance between accepting government funds and maintaining Christian autonomy.

Whether your state already has school choice, is considering it, or you're wondering what it means for Christian education's future, this conversation provides essential insights from leaders who've navigated these waters successfully.

Part One covers the fundamentals: what school choice looks like in different states, its effects on enrollment and budgets, and the accountability measures that come with public funding. 

Part Two will dive deeper into practical adjustments schools must make and what the future holds.

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 Guests

Andrew Fry is the principal of Colonial Christian School in Indianapolis, Indiana. He earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering and a master of arts in teaching in mathematics. With 12 years of experience in teaching and school leadership, Andrew is passionate about fostering academic excellence and spiritual growth in Christian education. He and his wife, Janna, have three children.

Dr. Michael Phillips holds undergraduate degrees in Bible and mathematics education. He also holds a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in educational leadership. He served in Christian schools in Virginia and North Carolina as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and administrator for 25years before the Lord called him to Bay City Christian School in Green Bay, Wisconsin. In addition to his school responsibilities, Dr. Phillips is the executive director and accreditation chair for the Wisconsin Association of Christian Schools. He and his wife, Shellee, have four children.

Dr. Jeff Walton, executive director of AACS, holds a bachelor of science degree in education, a master of education degree, and a doctor of divinity degree. He has served in Christian education as a teacher, school administrator, state association director, and Bible college administrator. Through his work with AACS and other organizations, he has been influential in securing policies and legislation to protect the ministries of Christian schools. He has presented professional development workshops for Christian school teachers at many state and national conferences in the U.S. and at conferences in Romania and South Korea. His wife, Judylynn, also serves with him at AACS, and together they are very involved in local church ministry as well.

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. 

“I remember saying several times as I walked around the public school... ‘I thank you, God, that the name of Jesus is going to be spoken again in these halls.’ And one day as I was walking around the school, I felt a strong sense in my heart that I need to do something more than pray about this.” – Amber Hudson

“At my other school, I couldn’t talk about God. I couldn’t, we couldn’t learn about God. And here we can learn about God.” – Student at their school

What happens when two non-educators feel called by God to start a Christian school in a community that has never had one?

Meet Andy and Amber Hudson, who went from homeschooling parents to school founders without any formal educational background. Their story reveals both the miraculous provision and unexpected challenges of stepping out in faith to bring Christian education to an underserved area.

This episode takes you behind the scenes of launching a Christian school from the ground up. From Amber’s prayer walks around the local public school to Andy’s confirmation of the same burden, you’ll hear how God orchestrated every detail – and how they navigated the reality that even passionate vision doesn’t guarantee immediate community support.

Andy and Amber share candidly about their biggest surprises: that Christians didn’t automatically flock to their school, that even free education through savings accounts wasn’t enough to draw families, and that being non-educators presented both obstacles and opportunities they never anticipated.

Whether you’ve ever felt stirred about educational needs in your community or you’re curious about what it actually takes to start a school, this conversation offers practical insights, honest reflections, and powerful reminders that God’s timing and methods often differ from our expectations.

We also answer a question from Sarah Choate, head of school at Legacy Christian Academy in Carson City, Nevada, who asks for book study recommendations for Christian school staff. Here are the resources mentioned in the episode:

Biblical Worldview & Apologetics:

Kingdom Education Series by Glenn Schultz:

Classroom Management & Teaching Strategies:

Character Development & Student Engagement:

Note: These resources cover various topics and educational approaches. Not all are written from a biblical worldview, but all offer valuable insights for Christian 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!

About Our Guests Andy and Amber Hudson are dedicated advocates for Christian education in Independence, Iowa. Andy, the president of the board at Liberty Christian School, brings leadership and vision, while Amber, a devoted homeschool mom, contributes her nurturing and educational experience. After much prayer and faith, they felt led to launch Liberty Christian School in 2024. Alongside another couple and through God’s grace, they have witnessed remarkable support and divine provision, making their dream a reality. Their passion is to create a nurturing, faith-based learning environment where students can learn, love, and live for Christ.

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 feel like we’re riding a wave of something that is happening right now across America, and we’re just getting on board.” – Andy Hudson

“If it was only for a handful of kids, would it have been worth it? In eternity, it will matter. It does matter.” – Andy Hudson

In Part Two, Jenny and Lauren tackle the practical implementation of gifted education programs. Many assume Christian schools are already challenging enough, or that skilled teachers can differentiate for all students. But even the most talented educators need support when serving truly gifted learners.

This episode addresses real-world questions: 

You will discover:

Lauren emphasizes that gifted students need opportunities to use their brains differently – engaging in deep, project-based learning that goes beyond surface-level knowledge. This isn't about busy work; it's about providing instruction that matches the way God designed their minds to work.

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. Lauren Morrison is the Director of Academics at Grace Christian School in Sanford, NC, where she oversees K-12 academics, the Learning Support Program, and the Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program. She holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction along with degrees in Psychology and Post Secondary Education. Dr. Morrison has extensive experience in public schools as a teacher, compliance specialist, and exceptional children's teacher coach. She is passionate about supporting both struggling and gifted learners while shaping students through a biblical worldview. She is married and the proud mother of two sons.

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]

“These are students who are not just good students. Their brain thinks differently, and it is as simple as that. They need a space and a time where their brain doesn't just do more work. Using the brain God gave them, they are able to think differently.”  – Dr. Lauren Morrison

Supporting gifted and talented students is often an overlooked area in Christian education. While many Christian schools struggle to provide adequate support for students with learning challenges, even fewer have established programs for academically gifted learners. In today's episode, Jenny sits down to explore this critical gap with Dr. Lauren Morrison, Director of Academics and overseer of the Learning Support Program and the Academically/Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program at Grace Christian School in Sanford, NC.

Dr. Morrison answers these common questions: 

If you are wanting to hear more about gifted and talented programs within your Christian schools, such as what age to start the program and what to do during the program time, tune in for Part Two of this conversation with Jenny Copeland and Dr. Lauren Morrison. 

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. Lauren Morrison is the Director of Academics at Grace Christian School in Sanford, NC, where she oversees K-12 academics, the Learning Support Program, and the Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program. She holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction along with degrees in Psychology and Post-Secondary Education. Dr. Morrison has extensive experience in public schools as a teacher, compliance specialist, and exceptional children's teacher coach. She is passionate about supporting both struggling and gifted learners while shaping students through a biblical worldview. She is married and the proud mother of two sons.

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]

“Ask yourself the question: What am I doing? Am I copying? Am I distributing a copyrighted work to an audience that would co-opt the ability of the owner of a copyright to obtain money?” –  Jim Bagarazzi

“Educators are excellent borrowers,” but when does borrowing cross the line into stealing? 

Walk through any school and you will likely see cartoon characters traced from coloring books, sports logos downloaded from the internet, and fun movies shown during reward time. As educators, we are resourceful, but in our well-intentioned frugality, we may unknowingly violate copyright laws daily. While we would never steal a poster from a store, copyright infringement feels invisible — making it easy to use protected materials without permission. Yet copyright represents true ownership, and unauthorized use is theft, whether in a store or behind a computer screen.  

This episode is for everyone in your school. Copyright compliance is every educator’s responsibility. Jenny sits down with copyright attorney Jim Bagarazzi, who breaks down the copyright law in practical terms, helping educators make wise decisions that protect their schools and integrity. 

You will discover: 

As Christian educators, we are called to operate with integrity in all areas of our work. Understanding copyright law isn’t just about legal compliance; it’s about honoring the creative work of others while effectively serving our students and communities. This episode equips you with the knowledge to make wise, ethical decisions that protect both your ministry and your integrity.

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!

“If what you're doing is saving money, why is it saving money? It saves you money because you’re not paying the owner of the copyrighted work what they’re entitled to.” – Jim Bagarazzi

About Our Guest

With over forty years’ experience as a lawyer, Jim Bagarazzi has an undergraduate degree in physics and earned his law degree from George Washington University Law School. He has been admitted to the bars of South Carolina, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, the U.S. Claims Court, and the U.S. Supreme Court. He is a member of the Carolina Patent, Trademark, and Copyright Law Association (having previously served as the association president) and is also a published author.

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]

“When parents come onto campus and they see teachers worshiping the Lord, they see the tenderness. The way our teachers interact with their child in an organic setting ... that builds a trust with our parents.” — Cathy Polyak

A very common topic Jenny hears in her conversations with educators and with podcast listeners is around chapel services. In this episode, Jenny sits down with Cathy Polyak, a Christian educator for twenty-six years, to talk about this valuable offering inside our schools: chapel. Cathy shares the purpose and primary goals of chapel and how to engage children of all ages.  

You will hear practical takeaways such as:

There are so many voices vying for the attention of our children and ourselves. Chapel provides an opportunity to hear God’s Word and biblical truths while deepening relationships among teachers, students, and parents. Cathy reminds us chapel isn’t just another school requirement — it is a powerful tool for building community and pointing families toward Christ.

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

Cathy Polyak has dedicated the last twenty-six years of her life to serving in Christian education. She has spent time in children’s ministry, the classroom, and now in administration. She has called International Christian Academy in Las Vegas, Nevada, home for more than twenty years, and she currently serves as the K-8th grade principal. With a passion to see children and families know who God is and live out an active faith, Cathy leads her elementary school’s weekly chapel services. Her call to shepherd children’s hearts through engaging chapel lessons has helped to grow a thriving chapel program and develop a vibrant school culture. Cathy and her husband have been married for 35 years, have three adult children and one daughter-in-law, and enjoy time with their two miniature schnoodles. 

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]

“A handbook is a tool to communicate agreed-upon expectations to create an environment that allows for disciple makers to direct students into God-glorifying relationships with their Creator.” — Paul Rebert

Every Christian school has a handbook or rule book, but are we using it correctly? 

In this episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast, Paul Rebert brings a refreshing biblical perspective to one of the most challenging aspects of Christian school leadership: managing expectations through rule books and handbooks. Paul brings a pastoral perspective to educational policies, sharing his burden for students who have been wounded by legalistic approaches to Christian school rules. He emphasizes the importance of handbooks and how they create safe learning environments and shape students’ hearts and share the love of Christ with them. 

Paul shares practical insights on:

This episode provides essential tools for any Christian educator dealing with handbook tensions, offering biblical wisdom that transforms policy enforcement from a source of conflict into an opportunity for discipleship and relationship building.

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 Paul Rebert serves as both superintendent of First Baptist Christian School and senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Danville, Illinois. He is also the president of the Illinois Association of Christian Schools. Paul grew up in Virginia and met his wife while teaching in Indiana. They have three children and are passionate about creating educational environments that point students toward Christ rather than away from Him. Paul brings a unique pastoral heart to educational leadership, focusing on how Christian schools can avoid legalism while maintaining biblical standards.

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]