The Christian Education Café

Episode 28: Promoting Mental Health with Dr. Penn

As we step into a new school year, the challenges facing our students, families, and educators are greater than ever. In this special episode of Christian Education Cafe, we dive into the vital intersection of faith, education, and mental health. We'll explore the staggering mental health statistics for children, teens, and adults in the U.S. and discuss how a Christ-centered approach can be our compass.
Join us as we discuss:* The Stark Reality: We share sobering data, including a federal survey that found nearly 1 in 5 (18%) youth ages 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode in the past year, and the fact that over 1 in 5 U.S. adults (59.3 million people) live with a mental illness.* A Biblical Framework for Learning: We'll unpack the concept of "Renewing the Mind" and how it applies to our educational journey. We'll introduce a Christian-based approach to the "Power of 4" engagement principles, focusing on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being to foster a holistic and God-honoring school year.
* The Power of Scripture: We'll ground our conversation in the truth of God's Word, reflecting on passages that remind us of His provision and peace. Our guiding scripture for this episode is Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
This episode is a call to action for Christian educators, parents, and students to approach the school year not with anxiety, but with the transforming power of a renewed mind. It's a reminder that true learning is not just about what we know, but about who we are becoming in Christ.
 
 

Episode 27: Study Habits That Lead to Good Success - A Conversation with Michael Penn

Its testing time and students are concerned with college and career readiness like never before. In a time where reports highlight academic challenges facing many young people, Michael's journey is a powerful testament to diligence and perseverance. Graduating high school with an Associate's Degree after starting college at just 12, and now completing a Bachelor's in Business Administration while actively serving others, Michael shares invaluable insights for students, parents, and educators navigating today's educational landscape.
Inspired by Joshua 1:8-9, this episode delves into the "Study Habits That Lead to Good Success." Having a dedicated time and space is only the beginning, we offer practical wisdom on focus, discipline, time management, and the pivotal role of faith in achieving "good success."
Join us for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable strategies to help learners thrive academically and develop a heart for service!

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!