Teacher Edition Podcast

Be Aware or Ignore?: Substance Abuse within Christian Schools Part Two

“It’s not a pleasant topic and one you would hope you wouldn’t or won’t need in Christian schools, but unfortunately, it is the world we live in.” – Peyton Snyder
Welcome back for Part Two of Teacher Edition’s conversation about the prevalence of alcohol and drug use in our society and, yes, inside our Christian schools. Peyton Snyder joins Jenny Copeland to answer more practical questions, such as how to handle disciplinary actions when abuse has been discovered and how to support students well in these situations. For administrators and teachers, a list of resources Peyton shared are: 
 
While not necessarily presented from a biblical viewpoint, the following resources provide a good starting point for those interested in gathering more general information about this topic and its impact:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse
https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction
The Compassionate Wisdom Works
https://compassionatewisdomworks.org/a-response-to-substance-abuse-equipping-church-leaders/  
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Core Competencies for Clergy and Other Pastoral Ministers in Addressing Alcohol and Drug Dependence and the Impact on Family Members   https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/competency.pdf
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 addiction of 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]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

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]
Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

Why Fine Arts Matter in Christian Education Part Two

“Dip your toe into the pool; jump into the deep end. Over time, you will be surprised at how God will bless (the school’s fine arts program) and bring honor and glory to Him.” — Darren Lawson
In part two of our conversation around developing a successful fine arts program, Jenny Copeland and Dr. Darren Lawson have a more in-depth discussion around the impact of such a creative program.   
More key discussion points: 
How fine arts can shape students’ confidence
Ways Christian schools can use the arts for outreach
Emerging trends in fine arts education, including the role of AI
We hope you walk away from this conversation feeling encouraged and equipped to embrace fine arts as a powerful tool in Christian education. Whether you are a teacher, administrator, or advocate for fine arts, know that your efforts shape lives and inspire the next generation to use their talents for God’s glory. 
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!
Need help? 
Contact Darren: Darren@TheParadoxWay.com
 
About Our Guest
Dr. Darren Lawson serves as a communication consultant and also works with Christian schools and homeschool groups on their fine arts program. Darren has extensive experience in the field of fine arts. Having served as a university dean of the School of Fine Arts & Communication at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. Darren also oversaw the university’s academic programs in art and design, music, theatre, journalism, film, and communication. He was producer for all stage productions and was also a frequent actor. 
 
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

Why Fine Arts Matter in Christian Education Part One

Quotes:
“God chose storytelling to give us the Gospel.” — Darren Lawson
“The very act of creating is emulating an attribute of our God. So when we create, we are in essence worshiping our God with our gifts.” — Darren Lawson
Part One:
How do fine arts fit into a Christian school’s mission? In this episode, Dr. Darren Lawson, a seasoned fine arts educator and former university dean, shares the powerful impact fine arts can make in the lives of students — emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually. Darren shares practical ways educators can develop a thriving arts program. They also discuss the challenges — budget, staffing, and integration with academics — and how schools can navigate these while implementing biblical worldview.  
Key Topics Covered: 
Why fine arts matter in Christian education
How creative expression serves as an act of worship
Biblical foundations for fine arts and faith
Fine arts not only has the power to encourage students’ creativity, but it also has the ability to develop their character and faith within a community. Educators can cultivate an environment for students to express emotion and use talents for worship, storytelling, and caring for others. Whether it’s through theater, music, visual arts, or emerging technologies, fine arts programs can inspire students to see their gifts as a way to glorify God and serve communities.  
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!
Contact Darren: Darren@TheParadoxWay.com
 
About Our Guest
Dr. Darren Lawson serves as a communication consultant and also works with Christian schools and homeschool groups on their fine arts programs. Darren has extensive experience in the field of fine arts. Having served as a university dean of the School of Fine Arts & Communication at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. Darren also oversaw the university’s academic programs in art and design, music, theatre, journalism, film, and communication. He was producer for all stage productions and was also a frequent actor. 
 
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
 

Committed Teacher/Committed Parent: Do I Have to Choose?

“Where your feet are, be all there.” — Jenny Copeland
Do you find yourself juggling multiple roles as a teacher and a parent? 
Do you feel torn between the classroom and home? 
Maybe you are wondering if it’s possible to excel in both areas or worried that your family and spouse feel second place. 
In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland sits down with Becky Teruel, an experienced educator and parent, about the delicate art of balancing both roles. With over twenty years of experience in the educational field, Becky brings her personal wisdom and biblical perspective on navigating the complexities of simultaneously being a teacher and a parent, emphasizing the importance of balance and practical strategies to achieve it. 
Gain actionable takeaways such as: 
Taking time to rest and fill your own cup
Managing your schedule effectively through using a planner
Ensuring your family doesn’t feel in competition with your career
Allowing space to laugh
Becky shares many practical tips on how to be purposeful with your time and allow time for both. Teaching is not just a profession but a calling that shapes lives both in and out of the classroom. Embrace the blend of your roles, acknowledging that through God’s grace, you can find joy and fulfilment every day.  
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. 
"To take the time to rest really needs to be purposeful, because it won't just happen.” — Becky Teruel
 
About Our Guest
Becky Teruel has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and has been in education for over 20 years. She has taught various grades and subjects and has experience as an early interventionist working with young children with deficits. She is currently serving as a national consultant with BJU Press, helping teachers and schools around the country. 
 
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
 

Empowering ALL Educators to Share School Safety Awareness Part Two

"But any school that unashamedly says, ‘Hey, I want to not only give these kids a good education, but a Christ-centered worldview,’ we think it is so valuable to at least have a digital panic button that we offer every school in America, every church in America, completely free of charge, zero charge — a digital panic button." –Jim Boyte
In this second part of our school safety series, Jenny is joined by Jim Boyte again, to continue the conversation around empowering everyone to be a part of school safety. Jim shares about an important new device that his team has introduced and explains why they can help everyone from front desk personnel to teachers and administrators. 
 
Jim, known for his engaging and collaborative approach, also emphasizes the importance of communication, collective responsibility, and the role of prayer and community in creating safer learning environments. Learn how technology, thoughtful practices, and faith can collectively form the cornerstone of effective school safety measures.
Let's equip and empower ourselves and stand united in mission as educators.
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. 
About Our Guest
Jim Boyte is the CEO of Active Defender and a bi-vocational pastor. With a deep passion for protecting students, staff, and communities, Jim has dedicated his career to equipping schools and organizations with life-saving emergency response solutions. His unique background in ministry, leadership, and security innovation allows him to approach school safety with both practical wisdom and a heart for service. He has led the development of cutting-edge safety technology, empowering schools to enhance their emergency preparedness with Live Dynamic Emergency Mapping, Customizable Tabletop Exercises, Stop and Think Drills, and Wearable Panic Buttons. Jim is a recognized speaker and advocate for school safety, frequently presenting at educational and security conferences to help administrators implement proactive and effective safety measures. He collaborates with law enforcement, school leaders, and security experts to create safer learning environments for students. Jim and his wife, Patty, have been married for 35 years and live in Carthage, NC. They have three children on earth and one in heaven, as well as two wonderful grandchildren.
For more information, visit: Active-Defender.com
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
 

Empowering ALL Educators to Share School Safety Awareness Part One

"For 50 years, teachers do fire drills and they don't ever know if they're going towards the fire or away from it." — Jim Boyte
 
Part One:
 
In this two-part series of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny sits down with Jim Boyte, CEO of Active Defender and bi-vocational pastor with a fervent dedication to school safety. With over a decade of experience, Jim shares his dynamic initiative toward increasing protection of students and school staff through innovative and effective solutions.  
 
In Part One, Jim gives practical strategies for schools to implement in order to move beyond the standard drills and foster a proactive safety environment. He introduces the concept of Tabletop Exercises designed to engage all school staff in discussions that identify weaknesses and improve emergency preparedness. 
 
Questions Jenny asks include: 
What led you to create Active Defender?
Who is responsible for school safety? 
Why are drills both physically important and mentally important?
 
Every teacher and administrator has a desire to protect and take care of their students. Though this conversation is a difficult one, it is incredibly important to face head-on. Be sure to listen to Part Two of this conversation, where Jim will provide new tools and more practical advice to improve school safety. 
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!
 
"Literally, if you just made sure every teacher knew what was going on in the first three to five minutes of an emergency, your risk would be lower than spending all your efforts to get first responders there." — Jim Boyte
 
About Our Guest
Jim Boyte is the CEO of Active Defender and a bi-vocational pastor. With a deep passion for protecting students, staff, and communities, Jim has dedicated his career to equipping schools and organizations with life-saving emergency response solutions. His unique background in ministry, leadership, and security innovation allows him to approach school safety with both practical wisdom and a heart for service. He has led the development of cutting-edge safety technology, empowering schools to enhance their emergency preparedness with Live Dynamic Emergency Mapping, Customizable Tabletop Exercises, Stop and Think Drills, and Wearable Panic Buttons. Jim is a recognized speaker and advocate for school safety, frequently presenting at educational and security conferences to help administrators implement proactive and effective safety measures. He collaborates with law enforcement, school leaders, and security experts to create safer learning environments for students. Jim and his wife, Patty, have been married for 35 years and live in Carthage, NC. They have three children on earth and one in heaven, as well as two wonderful grandchildren.
For more information, visit: Active-Defender.com
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

Protecting Young Lives: Preparation for Life-Threatening Incidents

"If you're a teacher, you're inside of your classroom, or if you're out on a playground, you're technically that first responder, right? You're the first person that is there and can help render aid to this person." — Sandy Gaddy
 
The Teacher Edition podcast, hosted by Jenny Copeland, welcomes Sandy Gaddy, account executive at Active Defender. As educators, life-saving preparedness rarely makes our daily priority list among lesson planning, meetings, and countless other responsibilities. While emergencies may be uncommon in schools, the crucial question remains: Are you prepared to save a life if needed? Sandy’s background in firefighting and being an EMS provider gives him unique insight into crisis response. Sandy helps organizations with safety protocols and emergency preparedness, working specifically with schools to ensure educators have the knowledge and tools to protect lives effectively.  
 
Episode Highlights:
Stop the Bleed: The importance of this life saving national campaign and how everyone– from educators to parents– should be trained in these techniques.
AED Essentials: Why AEDs are crucial in every school and tips on maintaining them effectively.
“Stop and Think” Drills: Incorporating mental drills that could make all the difference in critical situations. 
Importance of Early Behavioral Analysis: The impact of recognizing and reporting behavioral changes in students to prevent incidents before they happen.
 
Educators and administrators are encouraged to take a look at their preparedness for lifesaving moments and situations within the classroom. By focusing on prevention, awareness, and practical drills, educators will have an actionable framework to enhance the safety and security of their school communities. 
 
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!
 
“The likelihood of needing to use lifesaving tools may be rare but it is of utmost importance, because as a teacher, you are the first responder.” — Sandy Gaddy
Need Support? Contact Sandy Gaddy:
sgaddy@active-defender.com 
 
About Our Guest
Sandy Gaddy has built his career in high-pressure environments, starting as a firefighter and EMS provider in one of North Carolina’s busiest emergency medical systems. His firsthand experience responding to emergencies gave him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by first responders and public safety professionals.
Now serving as an account executive at Active Defender, he leverages his expertise to help organizations enhance safety, security, and emergency preparedness. Committed to making a difference, he works closely with clients to provide innovative solutions that empower those on the front lines and ensure they have the tools needed to protect lives effectively.
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

Supporting all Learners: Bringing a VoTech Program to the Christian School Part Two

In part one, Jenny and Michael talked about the importance of vocational education (VO Tech) in Christian schools and how hands-on learning opportunities can equip students for real-world skills while integrating faith into their work. In this continuation, Michael shares more practical steps needed to launch a VO Tech program, even in schools with limited resources.  
 
Key Takeaways: 
Starting Small — How to introduce your VO Tech program with minimal resources and gradually expand.
Finding Instructors and Support — Ways to leverage community members, parents, and local businesses to support the school’s program.
Budgeting and Resources — Creative solutions for acquiring tools, materials, and even donated equipment.  
Ministry Opportunities — How vocational skills can be used to serve local communities.
 
Christian educators can help students discover and develop talents through a VO Tech program. A variety of areas such as automotive, welding, carpentry, and aviation can build invaluable life skills and open up future career pathways for 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!
Contact Mr. Mabe:  mmabe@bobjonesacademy.net
About Our Guest
Michael Mabe’s experience working in trades began at a young age. At fifteen, he started working on cars and farm equipment. After high school he attended Nashville Auto Diesel College for training in Auto, Diesel, and Welding. Michael is a Nationally Certified Auto Diesel Technician, and a Licensed Aviation Technician. He worked as an auto, diesel, and aviation technician from 1972 to 2005 (33 years). During that time, Michael owned and operated his own auto diesel repair shop for fifteen years. In 2006, Michael began teaching at the university level and continued that until 2012. At that time, he was called to start a Trades and Technology school at another Christian college.  Michael led that ministry from 2012 to 2019, after which he returned to Bob Jones to start the Vocational Technology program at Bob Jones Academy, where he currently teaches. For 53 years, Michael has been faithfully working or teaching in the field of automotive and aviation maintenance and vocation technologies.
 
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
 

Supporting all Learners: Bringing a VoTech Program to the Christian School Part One

Teachers, have you ever had a student who thrives when working with their hands — fixing things, building, or solving practical problems? Maybe you wished there was a way to provide students with hands-on training while they’re still in high school. In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny explores the world of vocational education in Christian schools with Michael Mabe. Michael is a seasoned vocational educator whose passion for empowering students is evident.  
 
Key Takeaways:
The Need for VO Tech — Why vocational education is necessary for students.
Program Structure — How VO Tech programs can be integrated into Christian schools, whether as full trade courses or exploratory modules.
Practical Skills Taught — Overview of automotive basic care, electrical, aviation, and carpentry courses that prepare students for the real-world.
Faith and Work Integration — How vocational training can be used for ministry, personal growth, and career readiness
As Christian educators, we have the unique opportunity to equip students not only academically and spiritually but also practically. Be sure to stay tuned for Part Two, where Jenny and Michael discuss how to launch a VO Tech program at your school, find resources, and explore creative ways to serve the community. 
 
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!
Contact Mr. Mabe:  mmabe@bobjonesacademy.net
 
About Our Guest
Michael Mabe’s experience working in trades began at a young age. At fifteen, he started working on cars and farm equipment. After high school he attended Nashville Auto Diesel College for training in Auto, Diesel, and Welding. Michael is a Nationally Certified Auto Diesel Technician, and a Licensed Aviation Technician. He worked as an auto, diesel, and aviation technician from 1972 to 2005 (33 years). During that time, Michael owned and operated his own auto diesel repair shop for fifteen years. In 2006, Michael began teaching at the university level and continued that until 2012. At that time, he was called to start a Trades and Technology school at another Christian college.  Michael led that ministry from 2012 to 2019, after which he returned to Bob Jones to start the Vocational Technology program at Bob Jones Academy, where he currently teaches. For 53 years, Michael has been faithfully working or teaching in the field of automotive and aviation maintenance and vocation technologies.
 
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