Teacher Edition Podcast

“We spend money on brochures and ads, but the teacher can make it or break it.” - Cathy Dotson “We’re not just pulling people to our school—we’re pulling people to the Lord.” - Cathy Dotson As schools enter open house season, launch enrollment campaigns, and invest in marketing strategies for the year ahead, one truth often gets overlooked: your most powerful marketing tool is already inside your building. In this episode of Teacher Edition, host Jenny Copeland welcomes back Cathy Dotson, elementary principal at Wilmington Christian Academy, to unpack why teachers, not billboards, websites, or ads, are the true voice of a school’s story. Through real-life examples, practical insights, and hard-earned leadership wisdom, Cathy challenges both teachers and school leaders to rethink marketing, retention, and culture—starting in the classroom. Key Topics & Takeaways: Why teachers are a school’s most trusted and influential marketers How daily classroom interactions shape a family’s long-term perception The powerful connection between teacher morale and enrollment retention Why communication, warmth, and tone matter more than polished branding Best practices for teachers using social media responsibly and effectively Measuring success through re-enrollment, culture, and family trust “If parents feel heard and feel like their child is loved, they don’t want to go anywhere else.” - Cathy Dotson 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! Resources Mentioned: Tools for Marketing: ClassDojo – https://www.classdojo.com/ Google Classroom – https://sites.google.com/view/classrooms-workspace/ School Newsletters Social media (school & classroom-level) Re-enrollment tracking About Our Guest Cathy Dotson is a dedicated professional with over 30 years in full-time Christian service, primarily as a teacher and principal. Currently serving as the elementary principal at Wilmington Christian Academy in Wilmington, NC, Cathy's educational journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to Christian education. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education, a master's degree in educational leadership, and an Ed.D. in instructional leadership, a testament to her academic and professional accomplishments. Cathy's fervor for Christian education, coupled with her wealth of experience and wisdom, is truly infectious. She remains an active speaker on a diverse range of topics, consistently spreading her passion for Christian education and positively influencing those she encounters. Sponsored By Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/

“We cannot teach our children how to think without helping them know what the standard of truth is.” - Lauren Wiggs Have you ever heard someone say, “What were you thinking?” Or maybe a student has looked at you and said, “I just wasn’t thinking.” In a world where AI and endless tools are eager to do our thinking for us, the skill of thinking, real, biblical, critical thinking, can feel like a dying art. In this episode, Jenny Copeland sits down with Lauren Wiggs, a middle and high school English Language Arts teacher and Secondary Supervisor at Matthews Christian Academy, to talk about what it actually looks like to teach students how to think, not just what to think. Key Takeaways: Why you cannot teach critical thinking without a clear standard of truth How Scripture shapes the difference between teaching what to think vs. how to think Practical ways to evaluate literature through a biblical lens (themes, worldview, motives, consequences) Why literature still matters in a screen-heavy culture, and how it trains depth and discernment The discipleship connection: you can’t disciple what you don’t know, and you can’t know what you don’t draw out “There is a huge difference between teaching students what to think and teaching them how to think.” - Lauren Wiggs “Literature is a safe place for students to wrestle with big ideas before they face them in real life.” - Lauren Wiggs 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:Lauren Wiggs has over ten years of experience teaching middle and high school English language arts. She currently serves at Matthews Christian Academy as a middle and high school ELA teacher as well as the Secondary Supervisor. Lauren is passionate about helping young people grow as thinkers, readers, and communicators. In addition to her work in the classroom, Lauren enjoys coaching sports at MCA, particularly the girls' volleyball team. Outside of school, she’s fueled by a genuine love of coffee and a lifelong enthusiasm for hockey. Sponsored By:Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. https://www.bjupress.com/ Have a question for the Teacher Edition podcast? We would love to hear from you. Please submit your questions at https://www.teachereditionpodcast.com/

“I want schools and school associations to be vigilant… We need to do whatever it takes to maintain our ability to teach biblical truth at all costs.” - Jeff Keaton Christian education is growing, but growth brings new pressures. In this episode of Teacher Edition, Jenny welcomes back Jeff Keaton, founder and CEO of RenewaNation, for an honest, wide-angle conversation about where Christian schools are today and where they’re headed next.Drawing from decades of experience as a church planter, school planter, and national speaker, Jeff offers a candid “field report” on what he’s seeing across the country. From post-COVID enrollment shifts to deep worldview challenges, he identifies three critical pressures facing Christian schools right now: secularized parents, secularized teachers, and government funding. Key Themes & Takeaways:Why post-COVID enrollment growth is leveling off—and why that isn’t a bad thing The danger of prioritizing growth over culture How secularized parents influence school direction (often unintentionally) Why biblical worldview formation must be intentional, not assumed The challenge of secularized teachers—even inside Christian schools Why vetting, training, and ongoing formation matter more than ever Government funding: opportunity, caution, and vigilance Together, Jenny and Jeff unpack how schools can protect culture, strengthen biblical worldview formation, and lead courageously without compromising truth. ​​“The reason why I love the BJU textbooks so much is because they show in real time what biblical worldview thinking… actually looks like.” - Jeff Keaton “If they’re not studying outside of the classroom… they’re not going to have an overflow of it.” - Jeff Keaton 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! Resources Mentioned:Saving Our Children In a World Gone Crazy by Jeff Keaton: https://a.co/d/2JeYUEpWebsite: https://www.renewanation.org/RenewaNation Viewfinder: https://www.renewanation.org/the-viewfinderRenewaNation SEED Program: https://reap.renewanation.org/seed/Authors referenced: Nancy Pearcey, Francis Schaeffer, Chuck ColsonScripture focus: Numbers 11:1–17 About Our Guest:As a successful pastor, church and school planter, and ministry entrepreneur, Jeff Keaton has spent his adult life believing that through Christ anything is possible. As the founder, chairman, and CEO of RenewaNation, he now speaks across America, challenging the church to reach the world for Christ and to get involved in the great cause of giving children a Christian world­view education. Sponsored By Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. https://www.bjupress.com/ Website https://teachereditionpodcast.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teachereditionpod/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@teachereditionpod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/teachereditionpod

“Pray for your students — that they are doing well, that they know they matter, and that God is working in their lives.” – Curtis Tomlin What separates good teaching from transformative teaching? In this episode, Jenny sits down with Curtis Tomlin to explore what it truly means to teach beyond the classroom walls. Curtis shares his passion for Christian education that extends far past lesson plans and academic standards. He emphasizes the critical importance of building genuine relationships with students — making those phone calls, checking in during difficult seasons, and showing students they are valued as individuals created in God’s image. In this episode, Curtis and Jenny discuss: The difference between teaching content and investing in lives Why relationships matter more than we realize in education Practical ways to connect with students beyond classroom hours The power of a simple phone call or text message Praying for students and their individual needs Creating a culture where every student feels seen and valued Balancing academic excellence with personal investment Curtis challenges educators to remember that their influence extends far beyond test scores and curriculum standards. When teachers invest in the whole child academically, emotionally, and spiritually, they create environments where students can truly thrive and discover their God-given purpose. This conversation will encourage every Christian educator to see themselves not just as instructors, but as life-shapers who have the privilege of pointing students toward Christ through authentic relationship and genuine care. 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! “Christian education isn’t just about what happens during class time; it’s about investing in the whole child.” – Curtis Tomlin About Our Guest Curtis Tomlin currently serves as the administrator of Hidden Treasure Christian School in Taylors, SC. He has an undergraduate degree in music education and a masters in education. He and his wife have been serving in Christian education for 30 years. God has given them a vision and ministry to help struggling traditional schools to build their programs as well as help them begin a resource program that would best work with their education needs. Curtis is also a musician, playing several instruments. He and his wife have two adult children. 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]

“We have to stay true to our core mission, which is creating transformational materials for students’ lives. We can’t forget the trust that teacher is going to put in BJU Press to be able to create a product that can actually mean success in that classroom.” — Steve Dickinson “The content is so important, and the delivery is going to flex. We can’t get hung up on the delivery mechanisms, because it's going to change and change and change.” — Steve Dickinson Merry Christmas Teacher Edition podcast listeners! As we wrap up the 2025 calendar year, Jenny sits down with the CEO of BJU Press to share in a special holiday conversation. Steve shares his unique journey from accountant to CEO, revealing how growing up in an educator’s home and marrying a teacher has shaped his heart for Christian education. Discover the story behind BJU Press’s mission to create transformational materials that serve both the classroom and homeschool educators. Steve opens up about the delicate balance between embracing new educational technology like AI while maintaining the irreplaceable role of teachers. He addresses one of education’s most pressing challenges — the rise of cheating and lying — and why character development matters as much as academic excellence. Whether you’re fighting holiday traffic or relaxing with family, this encouraging conversation reminds us that Christian education is generationally changing and that your work as an educator truly makes an eternal difference. From the mimeograph days to AI integration, hear how BJU Press remains committed to equipping teachers for the daily grind while never forgetting what happens in real classrooms with real students. About Our Guest Steve Dickinson currently serves as the CEO of BJU Press. After graduating with an accounting degree from Bob Jones University, Steve worked in the finance industry, including as the vice president of global finance reporting for InterContinental Group PLC in the United Kingdom. For 11 years, he served as executive director of finance and operations and then CFO of BJU Press and was instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint in China and Southeast Asia. After serving for five years as CFO and then vice president of business and finance at BJU, Inc., Steve returned to BJU Press in 2023. His wife, Cindy, serves as a national consultant for 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]

“One tool can make such a difference in your classroom. This one little thing that I added to my classroom or that somebody suggested to me has made such a huge difference.” — Katie Klipp As the Christmas season approaches, many educators receive thoughtful gifts from students and families—mugs, candy, gift cards, and fuzzy blankets. But what if you could create a wish list of items that would actually transform your classroom? Tools that engage students, simplify classroom management, and bring joy to everyday learning? In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny welcomes Katie Klipp back to the show for a special “teacher toolbox” holiday gift guide session. Instead of the typical educational strategies, they’re sharing their favorite classroom tools and toys. These small items can make a huge difference inside the classroom. From buzzers to Bluetooth speakers, from Ozobots to sound machines, they explore creative ways to engage students and make learning more magical. Tools & Toys Mentioned in This Episode: (Note: Links are for reference and may be to similar items to those mentioned on the show) For Student Engagement & Reinforcement: Buzzers (physical and digital options) Digital: multibuzz.app Digital: buzzin.live Physical buzzers available on Amazon (recordable, animal sounds, traditional) Sound Machines – Audio reinforcement with fun sound effects Tap Lights – Quick engagement tool Doorbells – Attention-getting device Microphones (foam or plastic) – Make student participation exciting Recording Handsets – Allow students to record and play back For Classroom Management & Transitions: Chimes – Create calm, peaceful transitions Spinners wheelofnames.com flippity.net Magnetic Spinner Transparent Spinner Visual Timers Large digital for chalkboard teacherspayteachers.com For Enhanced Learning & Technology: Bluetooth Speakers – Pairs perfectly with Novel Effect app Novel Effect App – noveleffect.com (adds sound effects and music to read-alouds) Ozobots – Screenless coding robots that use color commands Giant Foam Number Cubes – Make math practice engaging For Organization & Literacy: Magnetic Bookshelves – Maximize space and accessibility Oballs – Hands-on learning and sensory activities “Good News for Little Hearts” Book Set – Character development resource Katie and Jenny share many practical, affordable ideas that can transform your classroom environment. Remember, you don’t have to implement everything at once—start with one tool that resonates with you and watch the difference it makes. Special Note to Listeners:Want to share YOUR favorite classroom tool? Visit https://teachereditionpodcast.com and submit your idea for a chance to win a gift card! Your ideas will be featured in Part 2 of this series. Come back next week for Part 2 of our Teacher Wishlist series, where Jenny and Katie will focus on tools that streamline your work to make it more enjoyable, efficient, and productive. 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 GuestKatie Klipp holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in elementary education and has taught first grade at Bob Jones Academy in Greenville, SC, for over twenty years. She also assists at BJU Press in writing, revising, and consulting. She enjoys hosting workshops for teachers and assisting teachers with classroom management, technology, and creative instruction. Sponsored ByNow, 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