Count on Math: It Never Adds Up to a Dull Moment | Brittany Hurd
Description: When are we ever going to use this? Why do we need to learn this stuff anyway? Why is math so boring? Have you ever heard questions like these come from your students? Math can be such an abstract concept in the minds of our students. That is why it is imperative for teachers of all grade levels to help make math concrete in the minds of our students by making it relatable to their everyday life. Math is anything but dull! Join me as we dive into a variety of hands-on ways to bring your math class to life while making it relatable to students’ everyday life. (Elementary)

Those Genealogies Are There for a Reason: The Bible as a History Textbook | David Thigpen
Description: As Christians, the Bible is the absolute and authoritative Word of God. It is central to all that we are and do. How does that look in a history classroom? One can’t miss that the Bible is also a historical document. It provides historical accounts which are intertwined with historical events recorded outside of Scripture. Moreover, the Bible indicates that God’s work in history did not stop with the recorded events of the New Testament, as AD 70 is a clear example, but so is 325, 735, 1620 and really any date in history! Because Christians view God as active and present in our world, there is a clear connection between the Christian faith and history which is the essence of a biblical worldview in history. The Bible is not supplemental material—it is the primary book which supersedes all historical textbooks and ancient works of history. (Middle/High School)

And You Thought Librarians Just Read All Day Long! | Nicole Jenkins

Description: Why are school libraries dwindling in many schools today? Why does the role of librarian appear to be relegated to nothing more than reading stories to small children? Yes, reading is part of the role of school librarian, but so much more goes into making your library, and therefore your school, a dynamic place of exploring, learning, and spiritual growth. Today’s school librarians must be ready to not only promote reading culture, but they must also be ready to support classroom learning, build and curate the collection, teach information literacy and research skills, manage library operations, and so much more—all while being the best and most inviting place in the school! Come beyond the storytelling as I discuss publishing and copyright law, the current state of school libraries, the embedded librarian, using the good side of the public library, interacting with parents, and of course, ways to make your library engaging and fun. (Specials K–12)

Improving School Safety | Renee Hodge
Description: With the help of Answers in Genesis Department of Public Safety, we have implemented many safety features in Answers Academy that we would like to share with you as we consider options in making our schools the safest for our students! (Administration)

Fostering a Culture of Mentorship | Audrey Bowsher and Jason Harding
Description: We are called as Christians to make disciples of all nations, but what does that look like in the classroom? As we aim to disciple our students, where does mentoring fit? What is mentorship? How can mentoring impact teacher and student outcomes? To be able to reach the head knowledge, students need to know you care by reaching their hearts. In this session, we will discuss the nuts and bolts of mentorship and explore some practical implications of mentoring students from an upper elementary and middle school perspective. (General K–12)

Science Says | Dr. Marisa Tillery
Description: Nothing shuts down civil discourse faster than, “I trust the science!” or “Well, science says. . .” How do we equip our students to identify biases and distinguish between interpretation and truth, especially in the world of science? In this session, you’ll learn how to read a scientific paper and walk away with tools to boost critical thinking in the classroom. (Middle/High School)

Why Can’t They All Be Just like Me? | Ann Rill
Description: We tend to interact with our students based on our personal style of communication. However, the majority of students do not share our communication style. Understanding and appreciating the six distinct personality types in the classroom can decrease behavior problems, increase academic success, and expand our sphere of influence. (General K–12)

The Truth About Biology and Sexuality | Dr. Georgia Purdom
Description: We live in a society that is very confused about their identity. They think that an individual can define and determine everything about themselves including their gender. What does the Bible say about sex and gender? Are they separate? Are there only two? What about people who have gender/sex abnormalities? Is there any biological or genetic basis for transgender or homosexuality? Let’s take a look at what God’s Word says and see how science confirms and supports the truths of God’s Word. God created us as his image bearers, and as our Creator, he is not confused about who he made us to be! (General Bible)

Learn, Apply, Repeat—Using Stations Effectively in Elementary Classrooms | Krystle Hegener
Description: In this session, we will learn about the benefits of incorporating stations in elementary classrooms, find inspiration for meaningful activities in all subject areas, and discuss tips and tricks for smooth transitions and set up. (Elementary)

Archaeology, I Dig It: Its Benefits and Limits in the Classroom | David Thigpen
Description: A prominent archaeologist said that we have only investigated 2% of what could be found in the Middle East. Another noted that archaeology does not prove or tell us truth. It is understood with certain levels of confidence and provides evidence. This leads to another prominent quotation regarding archaeology and the Bible: “That which can never be True can never be used to disprove or prove that which can never be false.” It is important to filter all archaeological evidence in textbooks, no matter the author, through the filter of the Word of God. This session takes a biblical look at some of the most-prominent pieces of evidence that demonstrate the veracity of the Word of God. (Middle/High School)

M-m-m-music?? In M-m-m-my Classroom?? | Steven Stembridge
Description: “Getting kids involved in music really improves their classroom performance!” We hear this so often. But what does it mean, and more importantly, how do we put it into practice? This session will explore the concept of implementing music to enhance learning. For music teachers, attention will be given to keeping time spent in the music classroom relevant to supporting regular classroom instruction. For grade-level teachers and “nonmusicians,” quick and simple techniques will be presented to create confidence that you can have your students making music in your classroom! (Specials K–12)

Taking Enrollment to a Higher Level | Renee Hodge
Description: The admission process is a vital aspect of administration as you consider each student for enrollment in accordance with your school’s mission. Come and hear how Answers Academy’s admission process works to gain valuable insight that you can incorporate into your school from the first inquiry to enrollment and even reenrollment! (Administration)

Show, Don’t Tell—Mastering Modeling in the Classroom | Carl Hooker
Description: Ever heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words”? In the world of education, this couldn’t be truer. Join us for an insightful exploration into the essential teaching strategy of modeling. In this session, we’ll dive deep into why “I do” is just as crucial as “We do” and “You do.” Discover practical techniques for effectively demonstrating behaviors, skills, and attitudes you wish to see in your classroom. If you aspire to see it, you need to be it! This workshop will equip you with the tools to teach and truly embody the lessons you want to impart, ensuring your students learn and apply their knowledge authentically. Get ready to transform your teaching and amplify your impact by mastering the art of modeling. (General K–12)

Restoring Order to Chaos: Biblical Counseling Insights from Genesis | Katie Pinkston
Description: Our world is full of confusion and chaos! Sometimes raising godly kids seems like an impossible task! How do we get to the heart of our children to raise them into healthy, thriving adults alive for Christ? We do not need to worry—God has a blueprint we can trust. When we follow God’s Word (order) instead of man’s ways (chaos), we will watch our students flourish. Join me as we apply practical wisdom from the first three chapters of Genesis to capture our student’s hearts for his glory! (General K–12)

Technology for All Ages | Brittany Hurd
Description: Technology can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! There are so many tools and resources available to educators that can help you organize your day, manage your classroom, enhance your lessons, support students, communicate with parents, and provide extra independent practice for your students to practice at home. In this session, we will walk through many of these resources and share how they can be useful for you. You will walk away eager to start using some of these resources in your classroom this year. (General K–12)

Biblical Zoology | Karina Altman
Description: God instructs humans to be godly stewards of creation without worshipping creation. How does the Bible explain the study of animals’ natural history, behavior, ecological relationships, and conservation? Learn how to teach zoological topics with a biblical worldview. (General Bible)

Penny for Your Thoughts | Dr. Marisa Tillery
Description: In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn best practices for incorporating a biblical worldview in their late elementary school science classroom/lab and will leave with ideas for physics and chemistry demos using coins. (Elementary)

Big Kids Are Still Kids—Tips for Having an Engaging Classroom | Brittany Hurd
Description: Middle and high school students love to have fun, maybe even more so than elementary kids! In this session, we will explore tips and key components to having an engaging middle and high school classroom. You will leave this session with ideas you can implement in your own classroom as soon as you start school this fall! (Middle/High School)

Weaving Connections: Hands-on Learning in Math and Social Studies | Martha Miller
Description: Educational research highlights the significant impact of hands-on projects in enhancing student comprehension and retention of key concepts. Weaving offers a unique, cross-curricular opportunity to explore math (measurement, symmetry, fractions) while delving into social studies, as many cultures around the world have a rich tradition of weaving. In this seminar, you will create a 4” x 6” mini-blanket, learn how students can design simple cardboard looms, and receive a “Tips” Take-away which includes lesson integration ideas, a customizable rubric, and cost-effective suggestions for sourcing materials. This seminar is ideal for educators in grades 3 & above who seek innovative ways to integrate hands-on learning into their classrooms while reinforcing core academic concepts. (General 3–12)

The Administrator’s Most Powerful Tool | Steven Stembridge
Description: The job of a Christian school administrator is . . . well, complicated. With so many hats to wear, so many decisions to make, and so much accountability to shoulder, keeping a clear and consistent focus is vitally important. Is there a tool that can guide the process of accomplishing both routine responsibilities as well as future plans and goals with excellence? Can the same tool motivate the faculty, staff, and school families to become the Christian school leader’s greatest allies in building an excellent school? Let’s talk about it! (Administration)

2 + 2 Is Not Racist | Stephen Goodenow
Description: Integrating Scripture and worldview into mathematics has always been challenging. Math just is. Our culture has rejected a biblical worldview and rejected absolute knowledge, and not even math has escaped. Is math discovered or created? Is math absolute truth or relative truth? Is math European and therefore racist? What does a biblical worldview tell us about math? Does God speak math? (General K–12)

Every Subject Narrates—Writing as a Learning Tool | Carl Hooker
Description: Are you looking to elevate student engagement and understanding in all subjects? Join us for an insightful workshop on the crucial role of writing across the curriculum. This session will showcase practical strategies for incorporating writing into every subject area, from math to science to social studies. Discover how to empower your students to articulate their thoughts and knowledge clearly, fostering deeper learning and critical thinking skills. Learn how to seamlessly integrate writing assignments that enhance academic performance and encourage thoughtful reflection. Get ready to transform your teaching approach and watch your students flourish academically. (General K–12)

Finessing Parent Partnership | Renee Hodge
Description: Parent partnership is more than a buzzword. Come and gain some practical tips on how to form a successful partnership that is beneficial to the student while reducing parent conflict. We will share with you what parent partnership looks like at Answers Academy in light of scriptural teachings. (General K–12)

Defending Your Faith Against Evolutionary Arguments | Karina Altman
Description: Do changes we observe in animals today support the evolution of all living things from a common ancestor? Learn about created kinds and how God designed animals to adapt and change. This presentation will provide you with the tools you need for understanding and defending biology through the lens of Scripture. (General Bible)

Is Your Bulletin Board Just Taking Up Space? | Debbie Goodenow
Description: Creating a positive learning environment for children doesn’t have to be difficult. This workshop not only will explore materials to make your classroom bulletin boards pop and methods to incorporate your bulletin boards into interactive leaning spaces but will also emphasize the importance of the message you convey to your students. When you leave this workshop, you will be inspired to create motivational and meaningful bulletin boards that will captivate and provoke your students to engage in learning. (Elementary)

Recognizing Scientific Fallacies | Steven King
Description: Our society is inundated with scientific claims. Some of these claims are based on pseudoscience. Some are based on naturalism. Some of these are genuine science. How can we, as teachers, recognize good science versus bad science? It is especially important for us, as Christians, to tell the difference since secular science is so prevalent today. To distinguish between good science and bad scientific claims, we need to understand what science is and how our science is rooted in the Bible. (Middle/High School)

Reviewing Without the Hassle | Brittany Hurd
Description: Do you feel that review days are nothing more than a time filler? Do you get frustrated or overwhelmed coming up with ideas to make sure your students are understanding content while having fun and not losing control of the class? In this session, we will discuss the importance of daily review and how this can help when you come to much larger review days. We will also discuss many review games and strategies you can begin implementing in your classroom immediately! Attendees will walk away with a list of ideas ready to make reviews meaningful this coming school year! (General K–12)

Rolling Out Learning: Create Topographical Maps from Toilet Paper | Martha Miller
Description: Research shows that learning is enhanced when students move from writing reports to creating projects that teach others. In this seminar, you’ll discover how to engage students in making topographical maps using non-traditional materials like toilet paper and water—an innovative, low-cost approach that reinforces both geography and hands-on learning. Participants will create a small map, practice construction techniques, and mix an alternative material using toilet paper and washable school glue. You’ll also receive a comprehensive “Tips” Take-away, which includes a materials list, lesson integration ideas, and a customizable rubric. This seminar is perfect for educators teaching grades 4 and above who are looking for creative ways to integrate hands-on learning and reinforce academic concepts. Additionally, teachers of younger grades can adapt this project for sensory-based learning, such as helping young learners form alphabet letters or improve spelling. (General 4–12)

Professional Development—All About the CEUs | Steven Stembridge
Description: Professional development—a responsibility that falls upon the administrator to ensure that all classroom teachers in core subjects are sufficiently credentialed and up-to-date in CEU count to maintain teaching licensure. While technically true, this definition can be as tiresome to implement as it is to read. Is there more to quality professional development in the Christian school than traveling to conferences and seminars? Can professional development more directly impact classroom success? Perhaps CEU could mean even more. (Administration)

Why Can’t They All Be Just like Me? | Ann Rill
Description: We tend to interact with our students based on our personal style of communication. However, the majority of students do not share our communication style. Understanding and appreciating the six distinct personality types in the classroom can decrease behavior problems, increase academic success, and expand our sphere of influence. (General K–12)

How to Make Science Fun for All Ages | Dr. Jennifer Rivera
Description: Did you know that a child develops their interest in science by age 7 and their worldview by age 13? Join Dr. Jennifer Rivera and learn ways to make the study of science exciting, engaging, and biblically focused to nurture fascination in God’s creation from the earliest grade levels. (General K–12)

AI Truth and Technology: Thinking Biblically About AI | Patricia Engler
Description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our world. What exactly is AI, how is it impacting humanity, and how can we approach AI biblically? Find out how God’s Word gives us the truth we need for navigating the AI age! (General Bible)

Dinosaurs and the Bible | Avery Foley
Description: Kids are fascinated by dinosaurs, but they usually hear about them through the lens of evolution and millions of years. Helping kids understand the true history of dinosaurs, starting with God’s Word, not only gives them a proper perspective on these extinct reptiles but provides a biblical framework of history they can apply to other subjects. (Elementary)

Never Let Them See You Sweat | Ann Rill
Description: Teaching is tough. However, teaching junior high and high school students can be downright brutal. Unlike those elementary students who love and adore you the moment they enter your classroom, junior high and high school students often have a litany of “tests” for those teachers who accept the challenge of the secondary classroom. Classroom management can be tricky with these students who don’t wish to be considered children but who are not yet adults. This workshop will provide the secondary instructor with helpful tips for navigating the challenges of balancing discipline and building relationships while preparing students for life beyond the classroom. (Middle/High School)

The Gift of Dyslexia: Unlocking God’s Creative Design | Susan Ham
Description: The more we learn about the mysterious workings of the brain, the more we see God’s creative handiwork in every individual—including those with dyslexia. What if, instead of viewing dyslexia as a struggle, we saw it as a unique gift? Dyslexic students often possess remarkable creativity, outside-the-box thinking, and problem-solving skills that can make them some of the most fascinating minds in the classroom. (Special Needs K–12)

Leadership Q&A | Renee Hodge and Steven Stembridge
Description: Leadership can be lonely as you navigate all the different aspects of school life. Bring your questions and brainstorm with Answers Academy leadership as we all help each other to be the best leaders that God has called us to be. (Administration)

Technology for All Ages | Brittany Hurd
Description: Technology can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! There are so many tools and resources available to educators that can help you organize your day, manage your classroom, enhance your lessons, support students, communicate with parents, and provide extra independent practice for your students to practice at home. In this session, we will walk through many of these resources and share how they can be useful for you. You will walk away eager to start using some of these resources in your classroom this year. (General K–12)

Does DNA Confirm the Creator God? | Dr. Jennifer Rivera
Description: This workshop will explore the complexity and design of DNA with hands-on activities designed for students of all ages. From edible DNA, to DNA models for high schoolers, to forensic DNA fingerprinting, Dr. Jennifer Rivera will guide you through this interactive program from a biblical worldview. Each attendee will leave with a packet of resources to use in their classrooms. DNA is one of the greatest confirmations of the Creator God. (General K–12)

Restoring Order to Chaos: Biblical Counseling Insights from Genesis | Katie Pinkston
Description: Our world is full of confusion and chaos! Sometimes raising godly kids seems like an impossible task! How do we get to the heart of our children to raise them into healthy, thriving adults alive for Christ? We do not need to worry, God has a blueprint we can trust. When we follow God’s Word (order) instead of man’s ways (chaos), we will watch our students flourish. Join me as we apply practical wisdom from the first three chapters of Genesis to capture our student’s hearts for his glory! (General K–12)

Teaching Biblical Critical Thinking | Patricia Engler
Description: In today’s information, we’re bombarded by messages that contradict the Bible. How can you help students think through any such message and reach a biblical, logical conclusion themselves? Find out in this practical workshop, which outlines a framework of biblical critical thinking skills for discerning fact from fiction. From spotting propaganda, to catching logical fallacies, to separating truth from assumption, these tools are not only invaluable for students but also relevant for any Christian in today’s secular culture. (General Bible)

Climate Change: Fighting the Fear | Avery Foley
Description: The media is all “doom and gloom” when it comes to the future of humanity. Kids are raised on this diet of fear, and many of today’s young people show the fruit, refusing to have kids for the sake of the climate, feeling hopeless about their own future, and angry at those who put us where we are. They need a biblical view of the past, of the present, and of the future. Discover how to teach kids about climate change, biblical stewardship, and our place in creation as you discover the 7 Climate Ages. (Elementary)

Forensic Science Exploration: The Crime Scene | Dr. Jennifer Rivera
Description: Forensic science encompasses every discipline of science including anthropology, entomology, dactyloscopy, geology, etc. and is an engaging addition to any high school science program. But one topic that is most intriguing to students is the crime scene. How do we teach about the concept of processing a crime scene and the importance of evidence and procedures from a biblical worldview? Join Dr. Jennifer Rivera, a forensic scientist, in this hands-on workshop and learn about God’s design in the order observable throughout his creation. You will process a mini crime scene and leave the workshop with resources and materials to use in your classroom. (Middle/High School)

How to Have an Engaging Bible (or Most Any Other Subject) Classroom | Bryan Osborne
Description: This session will include numerous tips, tricks, and practices for creating an environment that helps bring the Bible to life. These ideas may be new to you or just a good reminder of different teaching tools that are at your disposal. Whether new or old to you, they can be helpful in bringing most any subject to life and infuse the learning process with passion and fun. (General K–12)

Step Away from the ELA Worksheets | Ann Rill
Description: Regular review of concepts in the language arts classroom is essential. Practicing on paper is important, but what if you skipped the worksheets once in a while and played a game instead? Join me for some hands-on fun as we put a twist on four popular games that will motivate your students to learn. (General K–12)

Finessing Parent Partnership | Renee Hodge
Description: Parent partnership is more than a buzzword. Come and gain some practical tips on how to form a successful partnership that is beneficial to the student while reducing parent conflict. We will share with you what parent partnership looks like at Answers Academy in light of scriptural teachings. (General K–12)

Reviewing Without the Hassle | Brittany Hurd
Description: Do you feel that review days are nothing more than a time filler? Do you get frustrated or overwhelmed coming up with ideas to make sure your students are understanding content while having fun and not losing control of the class? In this session, we will discuss the importance of daily review and how this can help when you come to much larger review days. We will also discuss many review games and strategies you can begin implementing in your classroom immediately! Attendees will walk away with a list of ideas ready to make reviews meaningful this coming school year! (General K–12)

AI Truth and Technology: Thinking Biblically About AI | Patricia Engler
Description: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming our world. What exactly is AI, how is it impacting humanity, and how can we approach AI biblically? Find out how God’s Word gives us the truth we need for navigating the AI age! (General Bible)