Reflection Episode 4 - The Culture You Create (and the Cost If You Don’t) | Ep. 183

Reflection Episode 4 - The Culture You Create (and the Cost If You Don’t) | Ep. 183

What makes a school thrive, and what quietly tears it down?   It’s not just curriculum or programs. It’s culture. And at the center of that culture… is you. In this fourth and final Look Back episode, Jenny Copeland brings together powerful insights from past guests to explore two critical themes: school culture and teacher wellness. School culture is often hard to define, but it’s always felt. From leadership and mission alignment to relationships with families and students, culture shapes everything about a school’s environment and effectiveness. Throughout this episode, you’ll hear highlights from past conversations that emphasize: * The importance of partnering with parents in the discipleship of students * Modeling what we teach, not just saying it * Creating classrooms rooted in growth, community, and purpose * Staying committed to the mission, even when it’s difficult As the episode shifts to teacher wellness, the focus becomes deeply personal. Teaching is more than lesson plans; it’s emotional, spiritual, and relational 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! Featured Episodes & Guests * Episode 5 – Kevin Cyprian: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/kevin-cyprian-ep-05 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/kevin-cyprian-ep-05] * Episode 27 – Natalie Hardy: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/natalie-hardy-ep-27 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/natalie-hardy-ep-27] * Episode 94 – Sarah Barker: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/sarah-barker-ep-94 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/sarah-barker-ep-94] * Episode 31 –Cathy Dotson: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cathy-dotson-ep-31 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cathy-dotson-ep-31] * Episode 163 – Curtis Tomlin: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/curtis-tomlin-ep-163 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/curtis-tomlin-ep-163] * Episode 140 – Renton Rathbun: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/renton-rathbun-ep-140 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/renton-rathbun-ep-140] * Episode 130 – Paul Rebert: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/paul-rebert-ep-130 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/paul-rebert-ep-130] * Episode 74 – Brian Trull: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brian-trull-ep-74 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brian-trull-ep-74] * Episode 116 – Darren Lawson: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/darren-lawson-ep-116 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/darren-lawson-ep-116] * Episode 141 – Cody Lehman: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cody-lehman-ep-141 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cody-lehman-ep-141] * Episode 127 – Nathan Deck: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/nathan-deck-ep-127 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/nathan-deck-ep-127] * Episode 131 – Cathy Polyak: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cathy-polyak-ep-131 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cathy-polyak-ep-131] * Episode 47 – Damian Ahrens: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/damian-ahrens-ep-47 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/damian-ahrens-ep-47] * Episode 51 – Andrew Broere: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/andrew-broere-ep-51 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/andrew-broere-ep-51] * Episode 52 – Andrew Broere: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/andrew-broere-ep-52 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/andrew-broere-ep-52] * Episode 22 – Rand Hummel: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/rand-hummel-ep-22 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/rand-hummel-ep-22] * Episode 158 – Travis Moots: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/travis-moots-ep-158 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/travis-moots-ep-158] * Episode 166 – Amanda Cecil: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/amanda-cecil-ep-166 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/amanda-cecil-ep-166]   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. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at TeacherEditionPodcast.com [https://teachereditionpodcast.com].

Reflection Episode 3 - Building Better Classrooms: Strategies That Make a Difference | Ep. 182

As we continue our wrap-up series reflecting on three years of the Teacher Edition Podcast, this episode brings together one of the most practical and impactful themes we’ve explored: teaching strategies.   From active learning and classroom engagement to motivating students, supporting diverse learners, and thinking critically through a biblical lens, this episode is packed with wisdom from a wide range of guests who have shared their expertise over the years.   You’ll hear how small shifts, like incorporating movement, creating engaging environments, or simply asking better questions, can transform your classroom. You’ll also be reminded that effective teaching isn’t just about delivering content, it’s about discipling students, building relationships, and equipping them to think, grow, and succeed.   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! Featured Episodes & Guests * Episode 58 – Brandon Risinger: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brandon-risinger-ep-58 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brandon-risinger-ep-58] * Episode 59 – Brandon Risinger: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brandon-risinger-ep-59 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brandon-risinger-ep-59] * Episode 43 – LeAnn Thorpe: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/leann-thorpe-ep-43 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/leann-thorpe-ep-43] * Episode 9 – Matt Ticzkus: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/matt-ticzkus-ep-09 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/matt-ticzkus-ep-09] * Episode 15 – Sharon Younger: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/sharon-younger-ep-15 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/sharon-younger-ep-15] * Episode 23 – Terrianne Hawks: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/terrianne-hawks-ep-23 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/terrianne-hawks-ep-23] * Episode 170 – Cindy Hall: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cindy-hall-ep-170 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/cindy-hall-ep-170] * Episode 134 – Lauren Morrison: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/lauren-morrison-ep-134 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/lauren-morrison-ep-134] * Episode 90 – Dr. Christina Franco: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/christina-franco-ep-90 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/christina-franco-ep-90] * Episode 167 – Lauren Wiggs: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/lauren-wiggs-ep-167 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/lauren-wiggs-ep-167] * Episode 168 – Doug Lay: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/doug-lay-ep-168 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/doug-lay-ep-168] 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. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at TeacherEditionPodcast.com [https://teachereditionpodcast.com].

Reflection Episode 2 - Beyond Rules: The Heart of Classroom Management | Ep. 181

What if classroom management isn’t all about control, but about connection? This episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast brings together a collection of meaningful conversations with past guests, all focused on the vital and everyday challenge of classroom management and student relationships. But as you’ll hear throughout this episode, effective classroom management goes far beyond rules, routines, and quiet classrooms. It’s about understanding students, building trust, and recognizing that every interaction is an opportunity for discipleship. You’ll hear wisdom from experienced educators who remind us that: * Respect is foundational; students are image-bearers of God. * Clarity and consistency shape behavior more than discipline alone. * Preparation and engagement prevent many classroom issues before they begin. * Our words, our tone, phrasing, and intent can either build up or tear down. * Behind every behavior is a deeper story worth 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! Featured Episodes & Guests * Episode 101 – Marc Koster: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/marc-koster-ep-101 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/marc-koster-ep-101] * Episode 36 – Jeni DeYoung: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeni-deyoung-ep-36 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeni-deyoung-ep-36] * Episode 37 – Jeni DeYoung: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeni-deyoung-ep-37 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeni-deyoung-ep-37] * Episode 4 – Katie Klipp: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-04 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-04] * Episode 92 – Katie Klipp: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-92 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-92] * Episode 93 – Katie Klipp: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-93 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/katie-klipp-ep-93] * Episode 66 – Brad Parker: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brad-parker-ep-66 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/brad-parker-ep-66] * Episode 121 – Tim Berlin: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/tim-berlin-ep-121 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/tim-berlin-ep-121] * Episode 38 – Ledi Walusayi: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/ledi-walusayi-ep-38 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/ledi-walusayi-ep-38] * Episode 84 – Bruce Meyer: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-84 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-84] * Episode 85 – Bruce Meyer: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-85 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-85] * Episode 105 – Bruce Meyer: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-105 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-105] * Episode 106 – Bruce Meyer: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-106 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bruce-meyer-ep-106] * Episode 129 – Randy Padgett: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/randy-padgett-ep-129 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/randy-padgett-ep-129] 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. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at TeacherEditionPodcast.com [https://teachereditionpodcast.com].

Reflection Episode 1 - More Than a Christian School: Building a Biblical Worldview | Ep. 180

What if the most important thing we teach isn’t a subject, but a worldview? As we wrap up year three of the Teacher Edition Podcast, we’re stepping back to revisit one of the most foundational themes woven through nearly every conversation: Biblical Worldview. In this special compilation episode, you’ll hear insights from past guests who have challenged, equipped, and encouraged us to think deeply about what it truly means to teach and live through the lens of Scripture. Because here’s the reality: Being in a Christian school does not automatically produce a Biblical Worldview. It must be intentional. It must be cultivated. And it must be lived out daily. From the classroom to the culture at large, this episode reminds us that what we believe shapes everything and what we teach today shapes eternity. 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! Featured Episodes & Guests * Episode 1 – Jeff Keaton: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeff-keaton-ep-01 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeff-keaton-ep-01] * Episode 71 – Renton Rathbun: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/renton-rathbun-ep-71 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/renton-rathbun-ep-71] * Episode 2 – Bryan Smith: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bryan-smith-ep-02 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bryan-smith-ep-02] * Episode 142 - Bryan Smith: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bryan-smith-ep-142 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/bryan-smith-ep-142] * Episode 104 – Ben Schettler: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/ben-schettler-ep-104 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/ben-schettler-ep-104] * Episode 165 – Jeff Keaton: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeff-keaton-ep-165 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/jeff-keaton-ep-165] * Episode 120 – Dr. David Gibbs, Jr.: https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/david-gibbs-jr-ep-120 [https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/david-gibbs-jr-ep-120] 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. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at TeacherEditionPodcast.com [https://teachereditionpodcast.com].

Are Christian Schools Building on the Wrong Foundation? | Jeremy Thomas | Ep. 179

“We’re not just educating minds, we’re shepherding hearts.” - Jeremy Thomas   “If we’re not preparing students to stand firm in their faith, we’re not preparing them for life.” - Jeremy Thomas   What happens when a school looks Christian on the surface but is still building on the wrong foundation? In this episode, Jenny Copeland sits down with Dr. Jeremy Thomas, Head of School at Circle Christian School, to talk about his journey from public education into Christian education, and the deep conviction that followed. After years of leading with a performance-driven mindset, Jeremy began to wrestle with a hard but necessary question: Can a school truly be Christ-centered if its curriculum is still built on a secular framework? Jeremy shares what changed his thinking, how that shift affected his leadership, what happened when his school moved away from secular curriculum, and why biblical worldview training is essential if we want students to stand firm in their faith after graduation.   “Biblical faithfulness and academic excellence are not in opposition to each other.” - Jeremy Thomas   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. Jeremy Thomas serves as Head of School at Circle Christian School and is devoted to Christ-centered education and leadership. He holds a PhD in Educational Leadership. He began his career in Michigan public schools as a high school teacher and then as a principal before following God’s call into Christian education in 2016. Dr. Thomas is committed to building Christ-centered school cultures that pursue academic excellence, spiritual growth, leadership development, and strong partnerships with families. Dr. Thomas has worked extensively in strategic planning, curriculum development, and organizational growth. He is especially passionate about building sustainable school models that emphasize academic excellence, spiritual formation, healthy faculty culture, and long-term staff retention. Jeremy and his wife, Heather, who is also an educator, are raising six children, ages 12 to 22. 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. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at TeacherEditionPodcast.com [https://teachereditionpodcast.com].