Teacher Edition Podcast

Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer: Supporting Students Dealing with Trauma

“If you look around a classroom of 25 to 30 students, you can count on 16 to 20 of them have experienced at least one ACE.” — Erin Yezbick
More and more our students are coming to us educators with some type of experience that has caused trauma in their lives. Christian schools and students are no exception. Although trauma can be difficult to identify and to address, we can learn empowering tools from Jenny’s guest, Erin Yezbick, ACE Master Trainer and Grief Recovery Specialist. Join them on this episode to discuss this important topic of how to deal with the effects of trauma in our students through offering grace, understanding, and emotional security for every child.  
 
Jenny and Erin dive into:
Understanding ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and the different categories, including household dysfunction, neglect, and abuse
Uncovering the seemingly sheltered environment of Christian schools and how we can accommodate students with ACEs
Implementing strategies for empowering and connecting with students influenced by trauma
Creating an emotionally safe space by becoming the thermostat in the room, not the thermometer
 
Throughout this conversation, Erin helps raise awareness for us as educators to recognize students with traumatic experiences and those who may be suffering in silence. As Christian educators, we have the opportunity to speak truth in each of these students' lives — that they are not alone and that they are loved by their teachers and principals and by a kind, all-knowing, all-powerful God who loves them individually. God will never leave them and will always be the rock they can run to.  
 
Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 
 
Go do what God has called you to do!
“But what they’re really saying is, I can trust you with my emotions. If I’m having a really bad day, I want you there.” — Erin Yezbick
About Our Guest
Erin has been an educator for over two decades. She is an ACE Master Trainer for the state of South Carolina, an assessment specialist through James Madison University, and a Grief Recovery Specialist. She regularly speaks to teachers about trauma in the classroom, rigor, assessment, and accreditation. She also serves as a consultant, research designer, and professional development speaker for Christian schools. She is passionate about helping Christian education update and improve to meet the needs of the newest generation of students.
 
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
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From Public Education to Christian School: The Growing Shift in Education

Jenny Copeland sits down and talks with Marc Popovici, head of Schaumburg Christian School in Schaumburg, Illinois. Marc’s story is similar to many educators in today’s culture. He is able to relate to many educators who are questioning whether they want to make the seemingly intimidating shift from teaching inside the public school to exploring education within private Christian schools.
 
In this episode, Marc opens up about his personal journey and the factors influencing his transition, shedding light on the broader trend of educators moving to Christian education due to cultural and educational shifts. He shares compelling experiences and observations from both his public school career and his current role, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of each environment.
 
Topics Covered:
The story behind Marc’s move from public school to Christian school
The spiritual, social, and academic differences between public and Christian schools
The areas in which public schools excel and what they can offer that Christian schools may lack
The biggest challenges facing Christian schools today, including financial constraints and the need to adapt to modern educational demands
 
Marc also discusses the integration of a biblical counseling center into Schaumburg Christian School’s curriculum and its significance in addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of students. The episode explores the importance of collaboration between Christian schools, professional development for educators, and the role of faith in education.
 
Whether you have personally moved from a public education environment or work with someone who has, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice. From balancing work and personal life to fostering spiritual growth and professional networks, Jenny and Marc’s conversation is helpful for anyone involved in Christian education.
 
Remember to like, comment, share, and review the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and social media platforms. We look forward to your feedback and hope this episode inspires and supports you in your educational journey.
 
Don’t forget to visit our website to submit questions for upcoming episodes and to engage with us on social media.
About Our Guest
Marc Popovici has been the head administrator of Schaumburg Christian School since 2022. Before his role at SCS, he was in public education for ten years as a teacher, aide, and coach. Growing up in a Christian home and Romanian-ethnic church, he sees how God has prepared him throughout his life for this role, and he draws on his experiences to ensure SCS makes a life-changing impact on the SCS community. He loves the Lord and makes sure that he does everything centered around Him and for His glory alone. 
 
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpo

Classroom Compass: Keys to Effective Classroom Management

“We often think they need to respect us as the teacher, but we also need to be respectful of them. They are made in the image of God. They have value as individuals. They are somebody's child. We absolutely need to show them respect. And that means the tone in which we talk to them is so important.”- Marc Koster
 
Whether you are a seasoned educator or new to the classroom, classroom management can make or break your classroom. It touches every aspect and area inside the daily classroom. In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Marc Koster, educator for 15 years and now principal, to discuss the important role of classroom management in creating a successful learning environment.  
 
Together, they cover guideposts for effective classroom management, including: 
Respecting students while managing behavior
Setting clear expectations and holding students accountable
Being prepared for class with materials to avoid chaos
Fine-tuning thoughtful transitions between activities
Incorporating movement and engagement into teaching strategies  
 
Marc also addresses common classroom management challenges, such as whether the infamous “No smiling before Thanksgiving” rule really works and how to handle tough discipline moments with grace and authority. 
 
Packed with practical examples and actionable strategies, this episode is a must-listen for any teacher seeking to reset and regain control of their classroom. You’ll walk away encouraged and equipped to make positive changes today.
 
Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 
 
Go do what God has called you to do!
 
Classroom Compass: Keys to Effective Classroom Management
About Our Guest
Marc Koster has served at Grace Junior and Senior High School in Simi Valley, California, since 1999. He taught history for 15 years before leaving the classroom for full-time administration five years ago. Marc is married to Jennifer, who is also an educator, and they have one daughter.  
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Remaining True to Your Mission in the Enrollment Process

"Involving prayer, wisdom, and discernment is crucial in the student enrollment process. It’s not just about the numbers but about ensuring the students align with our values." — Rachel Ladygo
 
With the continued slide of culture, the blatant agendas even in education, and the introduction of school choice and vouchers in many states, the admission process in Christian schools is seeing challenging days. While having an overabundance of prospective families and even student applicants would seem to be a long-awaited blessing, what else does it bring to the table?  
 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, host Jenny Copeland engages in a discussion with Rachel Ladygo, a dedicated kindergarten teacher and assistant administrator at Gunnery Road Christian Academy in Lehigh Acres, Florida. With a significant rise in student enrollment driven by school choice and voucher programs, Rachel shares her experience and strategies for maintaining the school's mission amidst this growth. 
 
Throughout this engaging conversation, Jenny and Rachel discuss:
The importance of prayer, wisdom, and discernment in the student enrollment process
The impact of school choice vouchers on accessibility to Christian education
Implementing thorough admission evaluations to maintain a positive and mission-aligned school environment
Inspiring schools to consider the balance between growth and staying true to their mission, Rachel emphasizes the need for open, honest communication with parents and the importance of ensuring a good fit between students and the school’s values. Schools are encouraged to forge strong partnerships with parents, guaranteeing that their educational values are reflected and experienced in every aspect of a child's learning experience.
Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 
 
Go do what God has called you to do!
 
About Our Guest
Rachel Ladygo, an educator for nineteen years, is a kindergarten teacher and assistant administrator at Gunnery Road Christian Academy in Lehigh Acres, FL. She has a BS in emotional/behavioral disabilities and a MS in educational leadership from Bob Jones University. Rachel grew up near Cleveland, Ohio, and enjoys traveling, cooking, coaching, and spending time with friends.
 
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

STEM Education: Developing the Problem Solvers of the Future

“I would really think about STEM as solving real-world problems in a collaborative environment.” — Rachel Santopietro
 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland sits down with Rachel Santopietro, an educator and leader in instructional design who is passionate about students experiencing the joy of learning, specifically through STEM. STEM is a wide topic and term which influences schools in various ways. Rachel helps us to define what STEM means and discover the value of integrating STEM into our educational experiences. 
 
Questions answered and explored by Rachel and Jenny regarding STEM: 
What are the essential components of STEM?
What is the “engineering design process?”
How can teachers give students STEM experiences?
What are some examples of STEM experiences? 
 
Whether you are teaching preschool, elementary school, middle school, or high school, STEM can be experienced now and can benefit students in the future to prepare students for jobs in the future. STEM impacts students both in academics and in general life skills. Persistence in problem solving, community connections, and developing biblical worldviews are just a few examples of how STEM can influence students.  
 
Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you. 
 
Go do what God has called you to do!
“STEM activities teach students persistence, collaboration, and community engagement—qualities they’ll carry into their future careers and daily lives.” — Rachel Santopietro
 
Listen to Rachel’s previous episode on Teacher Edition https://teachereditionpodcast.com/rachel-santopietro-embracing-a-growth-mindset-working-the-brain-like-a-muscle-ep-03/
 
About Our Guest
Rachel Santopietro is passionate about helping students find joy in learning as they engage, learn, and create. And she wants this enthusiasm to be contagious. The same sense of wonder that sparked her curiosity in childhood spurred her to pursue a degree in chemistry, a master’s degree in education, and a doc­torate in learning design and technology. She wants to share her passion as she draws from her teaching and writing experience to oversee Instructional Design for writing teams at BJU Press.
 
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod
 

You Asked: A Look at Questions from our Listeners

Each week Jenny encourages you, our listeners and educators, to connect with us by visiting our website to share your questions, stories, and insights. We have received many, and today’s episode is all about answering your questions. Each one is practical, thoughtful, and widely applicable to educators everywhere.  
 
In this episode, Jenny addresses key questions on the following topics:
 
- Admissions Testing
- Grading Practices
- Integrating Biblical Themes and Worldview in Math
- Balancing Grace and Discipline in the Classroom
- Effectively Engaging with Students
We value your questions on classroom strategies, parent collaboration, technology integration, and more. We look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions in future episodes.  
 
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]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod
 

On the Front Line: Insights from the School Office Part Two

Some days the front office can be calm and some days it can be quite chaotic.  In part two of our interview with Linda DeGroot, veteran school secretary and registrar, she continues to share Scripture-centered approach and heart behind the heavy lifting and the catch-all of the front office.  She shares how secretaries can handle and juggle the activities with joy and patience.  
 
Topics discussed on this episode:
Avoiding the gossip trap 
Supporting teachers and administrators
Supporting secretaries and office personnel
 
Wrapping up the episode, Linda encourages the office staff by imparting they are not alone.  Linda reminds secretaries that God called us to be secretaries, and it is a ministry to God’s people.  Both encouraging and realistic, this conversation gives insight to what goes on in the front office of our schools. 
 
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
Linda DeGroot has been taking care of details in the school office at Bay City Christian School for almost thirty  years. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a non-profit emphasis, and when she accepted the Lord as her Savior in 1992, she knew that God wanted her to use her skills in ministry where she could impact people for the Lord.
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

On the Front Line: Insights from the School Office Part One

Behind every school is a dedicated, hardworking team in the front office, working diligently to keep everything running smoothly and best partner with teachers and administrators . In this episode, Linda DeGroot joins Jenny to pull back the curtain on her experience as a school secretary, sharing the challenges and blessings that define a typical school day. Linda starts by sharing her foundational story of accepting Jesus as her Savior and how it impacted her journey in education. 
 
Topics discussed:
Understanding the role and purpose of the school secretary
The most rewarding and challenging aspects of working in the front office
Common misconceptions teachers and staff may have around school secretaries
 
Linda provides valuable insights that can help educators appreciate the important role the front office plays at every school. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we will discuss managing chaotic office moments, creating a positive atmosphere, and ways teachers and administrators can best support the school office. 
 
Every day 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
Linda DeGroot has been taking care of details in the school office at Bay City Christian School for almost thirty  years. She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a non-profit emphasis, and when she accepted the Lord as her Savior in 1992, she knew that God wanted her to use her skills in ministry where she could impact people for the Lord.
Sponsored By
Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically.  BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more.   [bjupress.com]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod
 

Effort Well-Made: Building Positive Parent-Teacher Relationships Part Two

“Stay committed to your decisions, but stay flexible in your approach.” - Sarah Barker
 
Welcome back to part two of Jenny’s heartfelt conversation with Sarah Barker, former educator and current administrator. In the first part of Jenny’s conversation, Sarah shared invaluable insights on the common misconceptions and essential elements of building positive parent-teacher relationships. In this second part, Sarah and Jenny continue the conversation, diving deeper into practical strategies and real-life examples that teachers can implement to foster long-lasting, positive relationships with parents.
 
Highlighted Topics:
Maintaining connections over time
The significance of flexibility in teaching and relationships
Balancing discipline with engagement and celebration
The impact of positive communication with parents and students
Sarah's personal journey and her transition from teacher to administrator
Building a supportive atmosphere through everyday interactions
 
Sarah emphasizes the importance of not only communicating successes but also approaching challenges with humility and open-mindedness. The discussion also covers how modern communication tools can help in maintaining good relationships, and recognizing when flexibility and adaptability are needed to achieve the best outcomes.
 
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
Sarah has ministered at Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, for twenty-one years. She attended RCA from kindergarten until graduation in the year 2000. She was a full-time classroom teacher for eighteen years in the areas of kindergarten, elementary, middle school, high school, and music.  She then moved into administration and has been the elementary principal for three years.  Sarah also serves as an adjunct professor in the education department of a local Christian college.  It is her heartbeat to encourage teachers to have a passion for excellence in all that they 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]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Effort Well-Made: Building Positive Parent-Teacher Relationships Part One

“To us, a student is one of many. But to a parent, their child is their world.” — Sarah Barker
 
Part One
As educators we have all had the opportunity to work with a parent who is difficult in one way or another.  It can be exhausting and stressful and honestly disruptive to what we are trying to accomplish as an educator.  Sarah Barker, an experienced educator and now administrator, joins Jenny Copeland on the Teacher Edition podcast to discuss navigating parent-teacher relationships.  Regardless of grade level taught, teachers need to interact with parents and cultivate those relationships.
 
Highlighted topics: 
Common misconceptions in regards to dealing with parents
Elements of building a good relationships with parents
Different ways to encourage the individual child
Sarah also mentions that educators need to know how to communicate with parents—letting them know what is happening within your classroom, both for positive and negative feedback. We are humans, but God has put us right where we are to serve with and partner with these students—and their parents.
 
Curious about more actionable tips and real-life examples on fostering these crucial relationships? Tune in to the next episode, where Sarah dives deeper into how to maintain these connections over time, the importance of flexibility, and the impact of positive communication. 
 
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
Sarah has ministered at Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, for 21 years. She attended RCA from kindergarten until graduation in the year 2000. She was a full-time classroom teacher for eighteen years in the areas of kindergarten, elementary, middle school, high school, and music. She then moved into administration and has been the elementary principal for three years. Sarah also serves as an adjunct professor in the education department of a local Christian college. It is her heartbeat to encourage teachers to have a passion for excellence in all that they 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]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod