Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Be Aware or Ignore?: Substance Abuse within Christian Schools Part One
“Even precious believers can be wrecked by substances. It’s critical to equip our kids with the right knowledge and support.” — Peyton Snyder
Are Christian schools immune from substance abuse challenges?
Pressures are increasingly rising for our students, their families, and even among those working in Christian schools.
Jenny sits down with Peyton Snyder to discuss this eye-opening topic. Peyton’s extensive history in counseling and her current role as a director of withdrawal management and medication-assisted treatment at the Phoenix Center in Greenville, SC. She offers her firsthand experience on the impact of addiction to substances and how it can affect anyone. Peyton shares the realities and the eye-opening statistics to bring awareness and offer support for teachers, students, and families.
Throughout their conversation, they explore and answer questions like:
- What are some common misconceptions around drugs and alcohol?
- Why are Christian school environments not immune to these issues?
- How can educators communicate effectively with students?
- If people know alcohol and drugs are bad, why do they partake?
Peyton challenges Christian school communities to create an environment where students feel safe and supported. Allowing students a place to ask questions, grow in their faith, and understand the world around them will empower and encourage your students to make wise choices. As Peyton states, “As parents and as educators, we absolutely should be the safest and most trustworthy person for our children to come and ask these questions.”
Come back for Part Two as Jenny and Peyton share valuable resources to help Christian educators.
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!
About Our Guest
Peyton has a bachelor’s degree in sports science and a master’s degree in professional counseling. She has also earned credentials as a licensed professional counselor and as an alcohol and drug abuse counselor. She is currently the director of withdrawal management and medication-assisted treatment at the Phoenix Center in Greenville, SC, but she has also served there as a counselor for an all-women’s trauma focused group, a coordinator, and the manager of their outpatient program. Peyton literally spends her days helping and supporting those recovering from the impact of addiction and substance abuse. Having several immediate family members who are in long-term recovery, she understands how substance abuse impacts the entire family unit and how compassion, love, and firm boundaries are absolutely necessary in navigating those relationships. Peyton and her husband have three children and a son-in-law.
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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