The Christian Education Café

Episode 26: Intentional Discipleship with Amber Pike

In Episode 26 of the Christian Education Café podcast, host Dr. Althea Penn welcomes Amber Pike, the Church and Family Ministry Coordinator and Managing Editor of *The RenewaNation Review Magazine*. This episode dives into the topic of "Intentional Discipleship," offering insights and strategies for nurturing faith and fostering a biblical worldview in children and families.
Amber shares her expertise on creating impactful family ministry initiatives and discusses the goals of Renew a Nation, an organization dedicated to equipping children with a biblical perspective. The conversation highlights practical advice, valuable resources, and best practices for ministry leaders, educators, and families aiming to cultivate strong faith foundations in the next generation.This inspiring and informative episode not only explores intentional family ministry but also encourages listeners to support and engage with resources designed to help children thrive spiritually, emotionally, and academically. Tune in for thought-provoking discussions and actionable takeaways to empower your kingdom education journey! Be sure to follow, like, and subscribe wherever you are listening.

Episode 25: Integrating Faith into Math with Kate Hannon

Join us for an insightful episode of the Christian Education Café Podcast! We're thrilled to welcome Kate Hannon, author of "Revealing Arithmetic," as our special guest. Kate will share her expertise on integrating faith into mathematics education, providing invaluable insights for Christian educators, school leaders, and families. 📍 Subscribe and follow on Facebook, Podbean, YouTube, and other podcast channels 🎙️ Episode Highlights: Kate's Background & Inspiration: Learn about Kate's journey and what inspired her to write "Revealing Arithmetic." Faith in Mathematics: Discover how Kate's faith influences her approach to teaching mathematics. Key Themes from the Book: Explore themes, strategies, and principles in "Revealing Arithmetic" that are relevant to Christian educators and parents. Practical Applications: Get practical tips on integrating faith-based principles into teaching practices and recommended manipulatives. Advice for Parents: Find out how parents can support their children's mathematical learning from a faith-based perspective. Challenges & Opportunities: Discuss common challenges in teaching mathematics within a Christian framework and how to address them. Spiritual Formation: Understand how seeing God's character reflected in mathematics fosters spiritual growth and faith development. ✨ Don't miss this inspiring episode! ✨ Share this with fellow educators, school leaders, and parents who are passionate about holistic and faith-based education. Let's promote flourishing (Psalm 1) at every level of child development, professional development, and organizational development. #ChristianEducation #BibleIntegration #Mathematics #FaithInEducation #RevealingArithmetic #EarlyEducation #ChristianEducators  
-Michael Penn, Producer 🎙️

Episode 24: Navigating Current Issues in Christian Education with a Biblical Worldview

Coach Penn joins Dr. Penn to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Christian educators and families. In light of the various challenges such as the increase in secularism, social and political issues, technological advancements, mental health issues, learning and behavior challenges Christian educators are reminded of the importance of parental involvement in the education of their children and how families can partner with Christian schools to provide a holistic education. They explored the  potential solutions and innovative approaches to address these challenges, * Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Like, follow, and subscribe in order to be notified of next episode and download the free book entitled Strategies for Developing Biblical Manhood in the Joshua Generation at www.pennconsulting.org.
 

Episode 23: Biblical Unity in Christian School Hiring and Admissions DEI

Schools are seeing a surge in enrollment, but with it comes new challenges and opportunities, especially regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Dr. Althea Penn and special guest Krista Bontrager (theologian and co-founder of the Center for Biblical Unity) discuss how Christian schools can approach DEI from a biblical perspective.
They explore:
Biblical definitions of unity, equity, and inclusion
How to ensure hiring and admissions policies promote biblical diversity
Practical strategies for staff and board development on these topics
Resources like the book "Walking in Unity" by Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager
Empower Christian educators and leaders to create a welcoming and flourishing school environment for all students!
Listen now!
#ChristianEducation #BiblicalUnity #DEI #ChristianSchools #WalkinginUnity

Episode 22: Teaching a Biblical Worldview About Cultural Practices with Cecil and Jenelle

Join us as we dive deep into the importance of developing a Biblical worldview in children amid contemporary cultural practices. Cecil and Jenelle Davis share their insights on counteracting syncretism and pluralism, focusing on Biblical spiritual formation and faith development. Learn from their family's journey and strategies for integrating Biblical truth into education, leading to remarkable achievements in spiritual and academic arenas. Don't miss this episode!

Episode 21 Urban Christian Schools: Challenges and Possibilities with Tiffany Cameron

Join Dr. Penn as she interview Tiffany Cameron, Chief of Staff at the #1 K-12 school in Milwaukee! We are excited about Saint Augustine Prep’s growth and best practices in Kingdom education. With growth there are both challenges and opportunities in this season that are unique to Christian schools serving in urban locales. 85% of their students would be considered at risk because they live in an economically disadvantaged community, yet this school is bringing about transformation. They love their neighbor by making high quality Christ-centered education accessible to every student including those who have access to special needs vouchers due to developmental delays and difficulties in learning or behavior. She shares ways Christian school leaders, educators, and parents can address the specific hurdles that Christian schools in urban areas encounter. Subscribe to our channels and never miss an episode! Follow us on Facebook, Podbean, Spotify, or Amazon or your favorite podcast platforms in order to be notified when the next episode drops.

Episode 20 Racial Reconciliation in Christian Education with Monique Duson

Join Dr. Penn as she interviews Monique Duson, co-founder of the Center for Biblical Unity as they discuss racial reconciliation as it pertains to Christian education. The Bible does not even use the word race in reference to people, but it does describe all human beings as being of “one blood” (Acts 17:26). This of course emphasizes that we are all related, as all humans are descendants of the first man, Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45) who was created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26–27). The Last Adam, Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:45) also became a descendant of Adam. Any descendant of Adam can be saved because our mutual relative by blood (Jesus) died and rose again. This is why the gospel can (and should) be preached to all tribes and nations. Monique co-authored Walking in Unity with Krista Bontrager and you are encouraged to join their book club and meet weekly as they read and discuss CFBU’s new book, “Walking in Unity,” which addresses race and racism from a Gospel-centered perspective. In this divided culture they are a voice that needs to be heard. Their vision aligns with biblical truth that we are one race, one people in need of the Savior. Visit the Center for Biblical Unity website (https://www.centerforbiblicalunity.com/) to learn more about resources and events that will equip and empower you and your family to flourish.

Episode 19: Advocating for Exceptional Learners with Derona King

Thank you for joining us at the Christian Education Café. We hope today’s episode with Derona King, former Executive Director of Atlanta & Dekalb Citizen Advocacy inspires and equips you to make a meaningful impact in your educational community. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review. The resources below were relevant to our conversation:
https://zilphy.com/
https://www.ldonline.org/
https://www.ncld.org/
https://www.togetherwecarega.org/
https://dph.georgia.gov/children1st
https://www.p2pga.org/
https://www.cdc.gov/.../mil.../digital-online-checklist.html
Disorder Fact Sheet Resource Booklet: For Parents and Teachers of Exceptional Learners Order your copy at https://amzn.to/4dZEjcN
Follow us on our Facebook and YouTube social media channels for more resources and updates. Until next time, keep fostering faith and excellence in all you do. God bless!
 

Episode 18 The Vision of Christian Kingdom Education with LA Bonds

The Christian Education Cafe' podcast equips and empowers Christian educators, school leaders, and parents with the inspiration, information, and tools needed to foster developmental competence in their students, colleagues, families and themselves...  
Listen as Dr. Penn interviews LaChrisa Bonds of Bonds Estate and Garden as they discuss the Vision for Kingdom education. They cover many insights regarding God's plan for the Joshua generation to thrive. Kingdom education recognizes God's design for every child to excel. Mrs. Bonds shares her journey from charter school board member to homeschooling mom. She shares about the importance of guiding students to discover their God-given gifts, talents, and vocation through Bible integrated educational endeavors. She also shared how holistic development can be enhanced by adhering to biblical nutrition principles.  Mrs. Bonds, a former playwright and producer, hosts the Cultivated Conversations podcast and offers a farm share, with her husband, Robert. They are the parents of 5 boys. You can find out more about Bonds Estate and Gardens and their marriage and Biblical Wellness ministries at:
@Likewise Living
@iamlabonds 
Facebook.com/likewiseliving
The Cultivating Conversations podcast is now available on the major podcast streams!
Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/.../6a1.../cultivated-conversations
Apple Music - https://podcasts.apple.com/.../cultivated.../id1758723856
 
Be sure to subscribe or follow the Christian education café podcast if you want to be notified when the next episode drops. If you found this content inspiring, please like and share it with other Christian educators or school leaders who need encouragement and inspiration.

Episode 17 Burnout Prevention and Resilience with Alynthia Penn

Join Dr. Penn as she discusses issues of burnout and how to prevent it with Alynthia Penn. Christian teachers, whether in public or private schools, are not immune to burnout. Over 40% of early educators and K-12 teachers in the United States report often or always feeling burned out. 90% of teachers consider burnout a serious problem. Almost half of early childhood educators are experiencing high levels of burnout and stress, according to a nationwide survey of 2,300 educators. The survey, published by early childhood education resource provider Teaching Strategies, shows 45% of early child educators are battling mental health challenges and burnout. Twenty percent of early childhood educators said they are considering leaving the profession. Of that group, 40% cited mental health as their reason, and 43% said compensation is driving their decision — though only 8% of early childhood educators say they’re planning to leave in the next year.
Alynthia served during 3 major hurricanes in the Eastern Caribbean with Peace Corps Response as a Literacy Support Specialist, Indonesia as a K-12 technology instructor during a Tsunami, and as an instructor in Memphis during Hurricane Katrina. She served in Alaska during the pandemic and lost everything in the Maui wildfires. She is a certified instructor with a masters in therapy and shared biblical burnout prevention strategies that promote resilience. She shared examples from the life of David and strategies such as music and dance theraphy, journaling, prayer and worship, and so much more. You can follow her or donate to the Live.Move.Be. teacher burnout prevention therapy program at https://archive.storycorps.org/user/alynthia-montrelle/