EmpowerCentral

HOW CAN CHRISTIANS TODAY INTERACT with others in a way that shows respect to those whose beliefs are radically different, both inside and outside of the church? Head of School Christan Perona moderates a discussion between John Inazu, co-editor of Uncommon Ground and Trillia Newbell, contributing writer and Acquisitions Editor at Moody Publishers, to answer this very question.Together, John and Trillia:-- Help us think about how to engage others despite differences-- Lay a practical framework for healthy engagement as we consider the 2020 Presidential election-- Move us towards healthy conversation regarding other issues; COVID-19, racial tension, and current conflicts-- Challenge us toward mature discipleship that's manifested through humility, patience, and tolerance-- Empower us to lead others outside of our school in our various spheres of influence (work, church, communities,extended families) (Recorded in Zoom, the video version of this conversation can be seen on our YouTube channel.) #election #2020election #trillianewbell #johninazu RESOURCES:Uncommon Ground, co-edited by John Inazu and Tim KellerConfident Pluralism by John InazuGod's Very Good Idea by Trillia NewbellOther books by Trillia Newbell

In Episode 21, incoming Head, Christan Perona and Principal, Paya Sample, continue our two-part dialogue on racism. By examining how Central Christian School has intentionally tried to foster an environment where different voices are honored and all image-bearers of God are deeply valued, this conversation launches us into one of hope. We must not only celebrate our racial diversity but seek for ways to forever steward this gift from God. From curriculum to admissions to hiring to professional development to conversations with alumni and much more, Mrs. Sample and Mrs. Perona share ways we desire to bravely self-reflect and glorify God by pushing against racism. (Recorded in Zoom, the video version of this conversation can be seen on our YouTube channel.) RESOURCES:Episode 8 | The Counter-Narrative, Part 1: Culturally-Responsive Books with Librarian Nancy GruneisenEpisode 9 | The Counter-Narrative, Part 2: Starting Conversations with Principal Paya Sample#racism #justice #injustice #georgefloyd #education

In Episode 20, we’re looking at how to respond to our nation’s current events in our homes. How can we dialogue with our children about the death of George Floyd and the anguish that has poured out from people's hearts and is now being displayed nightly in cities across the nation and globe? How can we talk with our sons and daughters about racism, injustice, and fear? It’s a heavy topic, but at Central, we don’t shy away from hard things. We know we’re called, as educators and parents, to guide this next generation of Christians, leaders, and change-agents for Jesus Christ. Some parents are openly dialoguing with their kids about our current times and what we're seeing on the news. Some are not. And others want to have the conversation, but don’t know how to start it. Preschool and elementary children are in that formidable stage of child development, where their sense of morality and their worldviews are being shaped. Some child psychologists say that racism still exists today because parents avoid these difficult conversations, and so we want to empower you to start the conversation, respond to your child’s questions, and keep the dialogue alive within your families moving forward. Our guests in Episode 20 are two dads within our parent community. Rev. Ben Tzeng is the Pastor of Discipleship at Central Presbyterian Church and also serves on our school board. Mr. Terry Brock has also been in ministry and is currently part of our CCS Dads Bible Study which meets on Tuesday mornings. Both men have three children at Central Christian School. We're grateful for Ben and Terry for sharing their perspectives, immersing us in the Word of God, and motivating us toward change.

After 4 weeks of Homebound Learning due to the Coronavirus and another 4 weeks to go, 1st Grade Teacher, Emma Kozlowski, reflects on what life is like in her home. Giving valuable tips for how to thrive during this season, she shares with listeners what has worked for her family as they balance work and school. Daily life with young kids is often unpredictable. Listen in as Emma inspires parents and encourages them during the pandemic.

Our school nurse and school counselor are back as we navigate how to talk with our children about coronavirus. By educating yourself, going to the experts, coming together as a family, and praying against fear, Mrs. Robert and Mrs. Hubbard empower you, as parents, to have conversations you may have never had to have before. RESOURCES:Be sure you are getting your information from a reputable source: Centers for Disease ControlSt. Louis County Health Department World Health OrganizationSt. Louis County COVID-19 hotline: 314-615-2660

"There are layers and layers to the partnership we have with parents." - Mrs. Heinemann In Episode 17, we're sitting down with our two lead 3K teachers, Stephanie Mahley and Janet Heinemann, to learn all about the first year at Central Christian School. In addition to best practices that should be evident at all strong preschools, we're talking about what makes Central unique. Mrs. Mahley and Mrs. Heinemann address the benefits of being an early childhood program that's part of a larger school; ongoing, daily touchpoints between teachers and parents; relationships between our oldest and youngest students; and an intentional school-wide mission and purpose that's felt in 3K.

"Parents and I are able to collaborate so that I become a bridge between school and home. And so when their babies are with me, parents can trust their voices are heard even in that space." - Valerie Hubbard, PLPC   In Episode 16, we continue to show our commitment to educating the "whole child" as we consider students' physical, social-emotional, and spiritual well-being. Here in Part 2 of "Health and Wholeness," you'll learn about Mrs. Hubbard's transition from working as a family therapist to starting a counseling ministry at a church to serving as the School Counselor at Central Christian School. Mrs. Hubbard's passion is for the entire family, and she thrives when she's in partnership with parents while intervening with students. RESOURCES: A letter from Valerie Hubbard, PLPC, to the Central community

In an effort to educate the "whole child" as many schools do, we are grateful for the opportunity to consider students' physical, social-emotional, and spiritual well-being through the efforts of two amazing staff members: Amanda Robert, RN, our Director of Health & Wellness and also Valerie Hubbard, PLPC, our School Counselor. Together, they empower our faculty members to care for our children's needs while giving students a challenging education and meaningful community. This two-part series will give you a window into how we seek to care for all of God's image-bearers. In Part 1, you'll hear about Nurse Robert's journey from the Pediatric ICU of Children's Hospital to Central Christian School, her passion for good communication, and ways parents can partner with her for the good of your children and the school at-large. RESOURCES:A letter from Amanda Robert, RN, to the Central community

"I feel like Central Christian School in St. Louis is a place where you can really engage with your students and have a real relationship. There's time, and there's space for that." In this episode, host Christan Perona sits down with Central's art teacher, Sunny DeLay, to learn: her journey as an artist, where she finds inspiration, her view on Christian education, and how she's inspiring students! RESOURCES:Reductive Drawing Samples (6th Grade)Creation | Genesis 1:1-5Artist Kevin ColeKevin Cole Inspired Art Samples (1st Grade)Central Christian School Website | Fine ArtsInstagram | Central Christian School Art 

In Episode 13, we’re discussing culture making. Principal Mrs. Sample shares the importance of fostering healthy culture for students, teachers, and parents, and she describes ways Central Christian School is creating a culture where children love coming to school, feel safe enough to take risks, and ultimately, go deeper in their learning. Love God, Love Others has been our motto for several years, but this year Mrs. Sample has unpacked it in a way that’s tangible. From establishing core values in how we engage with our classmates and teachers to implementing positive office referrals, students at Central are learning to thrive — and lead — within a larger Christian community. RESOURCES:Mark 12:30-31Positive Office Referral Form (incorporating core values)

"If from an early stage we can shape our students so that not only have they learned to accept the diversity of God's Kingdom but they crave it, that's what I want to see." - Noah Brink, Interim Head of School. In Episode 12, we welcome back Interim Head, Noah Brink to kick off the 2019-20 podcast season and discuss the concept of "CCS for the City". Why is important for an elementary school to be "for the city"? Noah and host, Christan Perona, dialogue about our role in strengthening God's Kingdom and how Central Christian School is uniquely positioned to do so. RESOURCES:Jeremiah 29:7The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren: "It's not about you."Psalm 8

Choosing a school for your child can be daunting, yet all the emotional energy and planning are worth it. As you explore different schools for your child -- whether they're in preschool now or you're looking at high schools -- be sure to ask these 5 questions:1. What is your school's or school district's mission?2. What is the solidity of your academic program?3. How does your school nurture students?4. What do graduates of your school look like?5. Can I see myself here?Join us as the host of EmpowerCentral, our own Director of Admissions & Communications, unpacks these questions and gives you suggestions on how to get the answers you're looking for.And for some ongoing perspective: Isaiah 49:15, 16

Word + Became + Flesh. What's the significance of God entering into history, entering into His own creation? What does pride have to do with Christmas? Listen in as Pastor Vince Hall, Central's Summit (5th/6th) Bible teacher, shares about the reality of "God with us" and explains how the incarnation shatters our theology of good works. The same God who breathed life into the void of pre-creation breathes life into your chaos and brokenness today. RESOURCES: John 1:14Luke 2:7Hebrews 2:17John 1:1, Genesis 1, Deuteronomy 5:24, Psalm 107:20New Testament Theology: Many Witnesses, One Gospel by I. Howard Marshall

How do we begin conversations with our children and students to explore the counter-narrative? How do we find places for the voices that are often not listened to? In Part 2 of The Counter-Narrative, Central Christian School's principal, Paya Sample, defines "counter-narrative" and explains the importance of it. By giving practical examples, she inspires listeners to consider a different path as you motivate children to think critically and empathetically while engaging with history and different people groups. Dialogue further with Mrs. Sample by contacting her at info@centralschoolstl.org. RESOURCES:TEDTalk: "The Danger of a Single Story"Project 562 Conversation Starters:-- I wonder how we can find out more information about...-- Who's voice is missing from the story or movie? Why do you think that voice is missing?-- Do you think this is always the case?-- What do you think it would be like to be on the other side of this story?

We want to talk with our kids and students about diversity and inclusion, about perspectives and having an others-centered orientation, but we often don't know where to start. Part 1 of our two-part series on The Counter-Narrative features Central's librarian, Nancy Gruneisen, who quite vulnerably opens up about her own journey toward cultural responsiveness and understanding. From personal experiences within her own family to her work within Central's library, Mrs. Gruneisen gives practical suggestions about choosing books that represent a broader view of humanity.RESOURCES:WebsitesBrightlyThe Brown ShelfWe Need Diverse BooksNavigating these websites requires thoughtful discernment. Some books on these sites may may not suit your family or your beliefs. As a reminder, Nancy Gruneisen and Central Christian School recommends you check a book out of the library and read it prior to sharing it with your child.  Book TitlesFish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly HuntMy Two Grannies by Floella BenjaminRefugee by Alan GratzThe Skin You Live In by David Lee CsicskoOut of My Mind by Sharon Draper

How do we foster within our children a love of learning -- simply for the sake of learning rather than to gain rewards? Join us as we dialogue with Central's Spanish teacher, Marcela Casco-Lee. In Episode 7, she explores ways to cultivate natural curiosity and intrinsic motivation within kids, so they grow up to be healthy, independent adults. Hear her suggestions for growing critical thinkers and lifelong learners in today's world. RESOURCES:"A New Kind of Reward Increases Intrinsic Motivation", Psychology TodayUnconditional Parenting by Alfie KhonThe Danish Way of Parenting by Jessica Joelle AlexanderThe Absorbent Mind by Maria Montessori To dialogue further about instrinsic motivation, email Marcela Casco-Lee at info@centralschoolstl.org.

We're raising kids in a different sports culture than we ourselves grew up in. How do we foster activities that will provide lifetime fitness well beyond their childhood? What could that look like in our families? And what role should organized sports play in our kids' lives? In Episode 6, our host Christan Perona dialogues with Coach Crystal Burklo, Central's Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher. Listen in to learn suggestions to incorporate into your family's lifestyle that can benefit everyone -- mom and dad included. RESOURCES:Family Fitness, Active Play, and Exercise Adherence at verywellfamily.comLifetime Sports recommended by the AAP at healthychildren.org To dialogue with Coach Burklo about lifetime sport -- in your home or at your school -- email info@centralschoolstl.org.

Are we trying to create children in our homes and schools who don't need Jesus? Are we modeling conformity or transformation as the next generation watches? Interim Head of School, Noah Brink, challenges us to embrace a gospel of rescue -- for ourselves and for those we are teaching and mentoring. By promoting the modeling of confession and speaking out against self-righteousness, Mr. Brink gives a wake-up call to Christian parents and Christian educators. RESOURCES:Your Christian School: A Culture of Grace? by Paul David TrippLuke 15:11-32 To dialogue with Noah Brink about engaging children for transformation, email him at info@centralschoolstl.org.

It's a topic on many of our minds as we talk with parents and educators -- anxiety. How do we equip the next generation to navigate tough situations rather than immediately rescuing them from the struggle? Listen in as our host, Christan Perona, interviews Central's school counselor, Valerie Hubbard, on what to do - and NOT do - when we see anxious kids. Mrs. Hubbard offers a good dose of perspective that will inspire adult listeners to practice the same principals in their own lives. RESOURCES:Exodus 3:1-4:20Philippians 4:6-7"The Truth About Anxiety" by Valerie Hubbard, PLPC To dialogue with Valerie Hubbard, School Counselor at Central Christian School, email info@centralschoolstl.org.

"The Social Benefits of STEM" features Gited Education Specialist, Vicky Hauser. Not only will you get project ideas for using the engineering design process at home, but you'll help empower your child to deal with conflict in relationships and learn problem-solving skills to engage their communities. RESOURCES:Engineering Design Process -- Flow ChartEngineering Design Process -- Challenge ExampleSciShow KidsCrash Course KidsBrainPOPBrainPOP Jr.Common Sense Media (Engineering Games) If you'd like to talk more about implementing STEM and the engineering design process in your classroom or at home, contact Vicky Hauser, the Gifted Specialist at Central Christian School, at info@centralschoolstl.org.

Dr. Lisamarie Collaco, Technology Specialist at Central Christian School, sits down with Christan Perona to discuss how to keep our kids safe online. By exploring the different components of digital citizenship, Dr. Collaco empowers children to be proactive, rather than reactive, as they practice internet safety.  RESOURCES:Plugged In by Focus on the FamilyDigital Citizenship Resources by CyberwiseInternational Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)Parental Control Software by PC MagazineTo ask questions of Dr. Collaco, Technology Specialist at Central Christian School, regarding digital citizenship and keeping your kids safe online, contact info@centralschoolstl.org.

With all the encouragement about the importance of building literacy skills and math proficiency, we're devoting our first episode of EmpowerCentral to the importance of play. Even the Academy of Pediatrics is calling for a cultural shift! Today we welcome Central Christian School's 3K Teacher, Janet Heinemann, as our guest. RESOUCES:"Want Creative, Curious, Healthier Children with 21st Century Skills? Let Them Play" (American Academy of Pediatrics) To ask the Janet Heinemann, 3K Teacher at Central Christian School, questions about incorporating play into your child's life, contact her at info@centralschoolstl.org.