Teacher Edition Podcast

Staying Legal While Staying Creative: Copyright Compliance for Kingdom Educators

“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: 
Common copyright violations in schools 
Practical guidelines for using logos, images, videos, cartoons, and music legally
When “educational use” protects you (and when it doesn’t)
Simple steps to keep your classroom and school compliant
How AI-generated materials can be used or fed copyrighted material
 
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]

The Power of Intentional Chapel

“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:
Setting the tone: Transitioning students into a worship mindset
Structural elements that create engaging, interactive services
Teacher involvement: Setting expectations while honoring unique gifts and comfort levels
Parent engagement: Creating ultimate partnership through shared worship experiences
Starting strategies: Praying for wisdom and creativity to build your own thriving chapel program
 
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]
 

The Heart Behind the Handbook: Creating Policies That Point to Christ

“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:
What a handbook should and shouldn't accomplish
Biblical reasons for school expectations (safety, order, accountability, character development)
How to handle disagreements with a four-step biblical approach: submit, appeal, leave, or stand
The importance of communicating the “why” behind your rules
Creating team unity among faculty regarding school policies
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]
 

The Heart of Teaching

“I had a former principal share with me, ‘They will care how much you know when they know how much you care.’” — Randy Padgett
Have you ever met an educator whose love for teaching just radiates—someone who clearly enjoys their students, their subject, and the privilege of being in the classroom? Maybe you remember a teacher like that from your own school days. Chances are, it wasn’t the academic content that stuck with you, but the way the teacher went out of their way to connect, invest, and truly care about you as a person. 
What does it take to be that kind of teacher, and how do we keep the passion for education alive year after year, especially when the challenges and discouragements come?
Jenny sits down with veteran educator, lifelong learner, and principal Randy Padgett for a heart-to-heart conversation around the true foundation of great teaching: love.  They dive into the calling of being a teacher, the daily challenges of even the most dedicated educators, and why your role matters more than ever.  
Key takeaways from this episode:
Authentic connection comes first: The best teachers are those who invest time in knowing their students as people, not just learners. 
Balance love and leadership: Walk the fine line between caring deeply and maintaining respect in the classroom.
Reignite your passion: When burnout strikes, stepping back, seeking God’s vision, and remembering your original purpose can help you fall in love with teaching again.
Whether you are in your first year or your fortieth, this episode will refresh your perspective and equip you to lead with heart.
“Loving students isn’t just about the subject matter—it’s about getting to know them, spending time with them, and showing them God’s love through your example.” — Randy Padgett
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
Randy Padgett is an upper school principal with forty years of teaching in Christian education. Specializing in middle and high school math, he currently serves at Parkway Christian Academy in Lakeland, FL. Randy has been recognized with a Dedicated Teacher Award and two Who’s Who Among American Teachers honors. In 2001, he founded Heritage Educational Services which has been providing homeschool and tutoring services to the Lakeland community for nearly two decades. He holds a bachelor's degree in general studies from Bob Jones University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership. Outside of work, Randy enjoys spending time with his wife, Anita, and their four grown children and two grandchildren.
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]

Fine Arts: Shaping the Whole Student

“Having your student involved in a fine arts and music program is so good for their academics because it teaches them to be disciplined and to work well with others.” — Emily Nakamura
We have seen a trend of fine arts programs being cut or downgraded due to budgeting issues, lack of personnel, and lack of interest. Perhaps as educators we should reevaluate this trend. Fine arts isn’t just about talents — it’s about so much more. In this episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast, Jenny sits down with Emily Nakamura, long-time educator and fine arts director, to find out why Christian schools need to continue to fight for fine arts programs within their schools. 
Emily shares insights such as: 
The value of fine arts competition 
The varieties of activities the music and arts program can offer
The impact of the arts programs reaching the whole student
Emily brings over twenty-six years of experience to the conversation and wraps up with very important words of wisdom and encouragement to teachers — God has placed you within your school for a reason, not just to be your students’ teacher within fine arts, but to impact and prepare students for what God has for them next.
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
Emily Nakamura has taught at Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, for twenty-six years. Emily started her teaching career in the fourth-grade classroom. After taking a three-year break from teaching when her children were born, Emily returned to Raleigh Christian Academy as an English teacher and music teacher. Emily is currently the fine arts director for the school in addition to the school choir director, piano teacher, speech teacher, and high school English teacher. Emily has a passion for training our future church musicians.
 
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]

Spiritual Formation: Building Foundation and Transformation through Bible Class

“It’s hard to have a Biblical worldview without Biblical knowledge.” 
 
Bible class is a given within any Christian school, but how do we make it more than just another class to fulfill as a requirement.  In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Nathan Deck, currently a middle school principal, shares with Jenny his wisdom on spiritual formation built from over 15 years in youth ministry, missions, and Christian education. 
 
You’ll discover:
Staying mission-focused: How to align your Biblical curriculum with your school’s core mission instead of treating it as an add-on
Reimagining chapel: Fresh, intentional approaches to provide chapel services that are relevant and engaging to today’s students
Beyond box-checking: Why spiritual formation requires Holy Spirit’s work and authentic relationships, not just completed assignments
Everyday discipleship opportunities: Recognizing how lunchroom conversations, hallway interactions, and teachable moments in any subject can become powerful tools for spiritual formation 
 
We have one chance to impact these students for Christ, and we must stay focused on the mission. This podcast episode helps bring our attention back to where it needs to be and possibly even push a reset button as we prepare for another school year.  
 
Every day in the classroom is an opportunity to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace.
Go do what God has called you to do!
 
Resources Mentioned: 
Equipped for Impact with Nathan Deck and Luis Miranda 
About Our Guest
Nathan has spent nearly 15 years investing in the lives of students through a variety of ministry contexts — including summer camps, missions in Europe, youth ministry, and Christian education. He currently serves as the middle school principal at a Christian school in eastern North Carolina. Across every role, one passion has remained constant: helping students know and love the Word of God. Whether he’s teaching a Bible lesson, leading a robotics class, or having a conversation in his office, Nathan’s heart is to point students back to the truth and foundation of God’s Word — and to the God who gave it.
 
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]
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The Real Learning Curve: Navigating the First Years of Teaching

“Learn as much as you can because as you’re learning, your students are learning.” — Cassidy Harwood
“These parents entrusted me with their money, their time, and their children — which is the most precious thing. And I need to do my best.” — Cassidy Harwood
Summer is just beginning, but before you know it, summer will be winding down, school supplies will start to fill the store shelves, and educators will begin preparing for another school year. While veteran teachers face familiar routines with fresh challenges, a special group of educators are experiencing a mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with their first year in the classroom.  
 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland sits down with Cassidy Harwood, a fifth-year Christian educator, to hear about her experience and insights navigating the first years as an educator — from the moments that terrified her to the experiences that confirmed her calling.  
 
Cassidy’s advice for new teachers: “Go in with a big heart, and have so much fun. When you do your best, God takes care of the rest. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself — your students don't want perfection; they want authenticity.”
 
Whether you are a new teacher seeking encouragement or a veteran looking to support your colleagues, this conversation will bring valuable perspective.  
 
Key Takeaways:
Being prepared reduces stress and creates confidence in the classroom
Parent relationships thrive when approached as a team effort
Sometimes the best learning happens outside the lesson plan
Having mentors of different ages provides valuable perspective
Small, authentic moments create lasting impact on students
 
Every teacher will experience something different; however, hearing another teacher’s story is helpful. For some, there may be tears, and for some, laughter.  Hearing one educator's experience may help you before you start your first year, and for those more seasoned teachers, to remind us why we started teaching. Listen to Cassidy’s biggest takeaway, as it may inspire you to slow down and take time to have fun with your students. 
 
Every day in the classroom is an opportunity to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace.
Go do what God has called you to do!
Resources Mentioned:
Class Dojo for behavior management
Lakeshore Learning materials
Kahoot games for interactive learning
About Our Guest
Cassidy Harwood is from Asheville, NC, and came to know the Lord at the age of five.  She earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 2019 and then became a K5 teacher at Calvary Christian School in Greer, South Carolina. Cassidy is also active at her church, where she works with the middle and high school girls. She loves shopping, time with friends, and family — and, like all teachers, catching up on sleep! 
 
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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Embracing the Awkward: Why Middle Schoolers Are Worth the Investment

“I wish people would see them as the little people that they are.” — Courtney Wallace
Middle school … it can be an awkward phase of life. 
 
Underneath it all, middle schoolers are a great group of students.  
 
Maybe you are a middle school educator navigating through these emotions, quirks, and awkwardness.  
 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast, Jenny welcomes Courtney Wallace, a passionate middle school educator who sees her role inside the classroom as a mission field.
You will hear practical tips and encouraging insights for those inside the middle school classrooms, such as:
Building a calming, welcoming classroom environment
Encouraging students to ask questions and support each other as they grow in independence and confidence
Building relationships with students by investing in their interests both inside and outside the classroom
Seeing middle schoolers not just as “awkward” but as deeply impressionable young people searching for understanding, connection, and leadership
 
Even amidst the drama and unpredictability middle schoolers are facing, they are in the most formative years of their lives. Our role as educators is to walk alongside them as they discover who they are — helping shape their biblical worldview, supporting their growth, and pointing them to something bigger than themselves. 
 
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
Courtney Wallace is a seventh- and eighth-grade teacher from Muncie, Indiana. She earned a degree in middle school education and has been teaching at Heritage Hall Christian School since January of 2023.
 
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
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What Every Administrator Wishes Teachers Knew

Have you ever wondered what your school administrators wish you really knew? Or vice versa? 
Do the decisions in your school’s leadership sometimes leave you feeling frustrated or confused? 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Matt Ticzkus — regional director, former administrator, and long-time advocate for Christian education — to pull back the curtain on the four things almost every administrator wishes their teachers really understood, including:
Why relationships — not just policies — drive the heart of every school
A simple principle for effective communication that transforms school culture
How understanding the vision of the school leads to trust and unity, even when you disagree
What to do if you struggle to trust your leadership, and why it matters
 
When biblical principles such as humility, unity, and teamwork are combined, it creates a thriving school community. No matter whether you are a teacher or administrator, this episode will encourage you to seek understanding, build confidence in leadership, and encourage others to focus on the bigger mission within your Christian school. 
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!
Listen to Matt Ticzkus’ previous episode: 
https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/post/matt-ticzkus-ep-09
Resources mentioned within the episode:
Good to Great by Jim Collins 
 
About Our Guest
Matt holds a master’s degree in Christian school education and another master’s degree in Bible exposition, and he served for a number of years as a school administrator in Texas. Matt is currently the regional director for the mid-south region of the American Association of Christian Schools, where he is having a great impact with those schools and for Christian education. Matt stays busy outside that work as well. But by far his most important responsibility is his family. He and his wife have three children. He also founded and leads a small e-commerce company and actively serves on the city council where he lives.
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/
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Math: Biblical Worldview or Neutral

"Math may seem like a neutral subject because people are like, well, it's just driven by numbers and facts and logic. But the very orderliness of math reveals a rational and orderly creator, a wonderful, powerful God." — Cindy Dickinson
How does your worldview affect your daily life — what you do, where you go, how you respond to culture and news? At the same time, think of areas in your life that are neutral — not at all touched by your worldview. Are there any areas in your life that are totally free of worldview influence?  
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, host Jenny Copeland invites guest Cindy Dickinson to answer these questions, and even more specifically, the way math is often put into the category of “just math.” At first glance, math may seem devoid of worldview influences; however, Cindy challenges this common thought with specific examples from the classroom. 
 
Topics discussed:
The significance of integrating a biblical worldview in every subject, including math
Practical strategies for math teachers to weave biblical truths into their lessons
Early childhood as the prime years for shaping worldview, and why it’s never too early to begin
 
"When you're integrating these types of approaches into math education, it can really become a powerful platform for developing a worldview, because it's allowing students to see the subject not just as a collection of facts and numbers and figures and data, but as a reflection of the divine order of our all-powerful creator and a tool that we can use to live out our faith in really practical ways." — Cindy Dickinson
Every day in the classroom is your day to impact and inspire through God's power and also through his grace working in you. Go do what God has called you to do. 
Resources Mentioned:
Biblical Worldview Textbook https://www.bjupress.com/category/bible/biblical-worldview/5637160472.c
Raising Spiritual Champions by George Barna  https://a.co/d/2dNnEd2
About Our Guest
Cindy Dickinson brings over 30 years of extensive experience in the field of education, having honed her expertise on three different continents. In addition to her role as a dedicated teacher, Cindy spent several years in China, contributing to educational administration and the training of Chinese nationals in classrooms. Notably, she played a pivotal role in shaping the biblical worldview of students through her work with teachers. Presently, Cindy continues her impactful work with educators, serving as a national consultant with 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
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