Perspectives in Adventist Education

How can we help students connect their education with their spiritual growth? Debbie Michel and Mario Ferguson discuss how to empower students, the significance of discipline over punishment, and the role of personal struggles in developing a relationship with Christ. The episode highlights the mission of Adventist education to provide a Christ-centered environment that nurtures students' spiritual and personal growth. Mario Ferguson is the Principal at Andrews Academy in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Debbie Michel is the Director of Communication for Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Kids are stressed out more than ever. So how do we change that? Debbie Michel and Michael Jefferson discuss the increasing mental health challenges faced by students, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which exacerbated feelings of isolation and stress. Michael shares alarming statistics about the mental health crisis among adolescents, including high rates of depression and anxiety. This conversation emphasizes practical strategies for parents to support their children's mental health, such as encouraging family time, exercise, acts of kindness, and reframing negative thoughts. Michael Jefferson is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Wellness Center Director at Pacific Union College. Debbie Michel is the Director of Communication for Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Dr. Betty Nugent brings us a discussion on the importance of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education within the Adventist education system. Dr. Nugent, who works with the Florida Conference Institute for Leadership and Innovation, emphasizes the need for innovative teaching practices and project-based learning that integrates STEM across various subjects. Dr. Betty Nugent works for the Florida Conference Institute for Leadership and Innovation. Debbie Michel is the Director of Communication for Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Charles Tapp and Carlos Valencia discuss the role of standardized testing in Adventist education, specifically MAP testing. They explore the purpose of standardized testing, which is to measure educational standards and assess the effectiveness of teaching. Valencia emphasizes that standardized testing is a holistic approach that begins with intentional teaching linked to specific standards. Carlos Valencia is the Vice Principal at Ozark Advanced Academy in Gentry, Arkansas. Charles Tapp is the current President of the Potomac Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Is there a role for artifical intellience (AI) in the classroom? Charles Tapp and Lauren Koch explore what AI is, specifically generative AI like ChatGPT, its potential uses in education, the challenges it presents, such as academic dishonesty, and the importance of educating both teachers and parents about AI. Dr. Lorin Koch is a teacher, content creator, and course instructor who has taught at Walla Walla University, Griggs International Academy, the Adventist Learning Community, and more. Charles Tapp is the current President of the Potomac Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

How should we "measure" learning? Charles Tapp, along with guests Becky Meharry and Jeni Schmidt, discuss the concept of standards-based learning, its implementation in Adventist education, and how it shifts the focus of teaching and assessment towards clearly articulated learning goals. Jeni Schmidt teaches at Columbia Adventist Academy; Becky Meharry is the Director for Elementary and Curriculum for the North Pacific Union Conference. Charles Tapp is the current President of the Potomac Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

When is the right time to start reading with kids? Charles Tapp and Karen Brown, a second-grade teacher at Richmond Academy, discuss the importance of reading to children from a young age, even pre-birth. They discuss the numerous benefits of reading, including the development of language and listening skills, the expansion of a child's understanding of the world, and the stimulation of imagination. Karen brown teaches at Richmond Academy. Charles Tapp is the current President of the Potomac Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Why are so many kids scared of math? And does it have to be that way? Levi Whitcomb and Deneen Matsuda discuss mathematics education and the challenges associated with math anxiety. Deneen shares her personal journey from hating math to developing a passion for it, emphasizing the importance of understanding that everyone can learn math, regardless of their perceived abilities. Denine Matsuda teaches at Redlands Adventist Elementary and is the creator of Matsuda Math, a resource for teachers and parents to help students overcome anxiety and excel at math. Levi Whitcomb is an Associate Superintendent for the Office of Education in the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

What role does "service" play in learning in Adventist schools? Levi Whitcomb and Steve Boffman, Steve Baughman, who has experience as a principal and teacher, explains service learning as a method that combines teaching with practical application, allowing students to engage in community service that relates to their classroom learning. Steve Baughman is the Program Director for ACE Academy. Levi Whitcomb is an Associate Superintendent for the Office of Education in the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

How can parents and teachers support students with relational struggles? Levi Whitcombe and Dr. Dustin Young discuss the importance of social-emotional health in education, the need for open conversations about emotions at any age, and how parents can empower educators to address these issues in the classroom. Dr. Dustin Young is currently Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Andrews University School of Social Work. Levi Whicomb is an Associate Superintendent for the Office of Education in the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

What's the importance of mental health counseling for students in Adventist schools? Levi Whitcomb and Mindy Salyer discuss the growing awareness of mental health needs among students, the stigma surrounding mental health in the Adventist community, and the role of parents and teachers in recognizing and addressing these needs. Mindy Salyers is a school counselor with Couseltation, which provides school counseling and coaching to Adventist schools.  Levi Whitcomb is an Associate Superintendent for the Office of Education in the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Perspectives in Adventist Education is a podcast series which seeks out current voices to share how we are facing educational questions with an Adventist perspective.  Recorded at the 2023 NAD Teacher’s Convention in Phoenix, Arizona.