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Save the Date:
October 17–19, 2024
a FREE online conference for Christian Educators in both private & public schools
October 17-19, 2024
Reduce Stress & Overwhelm Teach Effectively Reach Hearts for Christ
Reduce Stress & Overwhelm
Teach Effectively
Reach Hearts for Christ
Where is God when teaching is hard?
He’s right there with you, working in your classroom, working in your students, and working in YOU.
You see, God never said the Christian life would be easy. In fact, Scripture promises just the opposite - trials, challenges, griefs... Sound familiar?
But the amazing news is that God is at work IN the struggle and despite the opposition.
He is light in the darkness, and His heart is always for us. He will use the challenges to draw us closer to Him, and He promises that His strength will uphold us when we're at the end of our rope.
Discover anew the hope that is found in Christ as well as practical solutions to navigate specific challenges that occur when teaching in a confused world.
How the Rise Up Summit Works:
1
Register for FREE
Sessions are designed for Christian educators in private and public schools. Everything is online & there’s no cost to attend.
2
Join Us Live Oct 17-19
You’ll be energized and inspired by the camaraderie that comes from attending live with so many fellow teachers. Live sessions begin Thursday evening and continue throughout Saturday.
3
Watch On-Demand Oct 17-19
In addition to the live sessions, enjoy an amazing lineup of on-demand sessions available to watch at your convenience beginning Thursday morning.
The 2023 Rise Up Summit has now officially ended, but you can still get lifetime access to all session!
Couldn't Make it Live?
Grab the all-access pass instead and watch anytime, anywhere.
Find out more about the all-access pass.
"The Summit really encouraged me, especially in such a hard year. It gave me inspiration & Biblically sound information that I can use in my classroom & also to look after my well-being."
- Nikki, teacher
With the All-Access Pass...
- Receive Biblical encouragement to respond like Christ no matter what is thrown at you.
- Find real solutions & mindset shifts so you can grow as an effective teacher - without burning out.
- Connect with fellow educators who share your faith and calling.
- Equip & encourage your spirit so you're ready to transform your school from within.
The event was completely free to attend October 19-24!
This long weekend will uplift your heart
& equip you to fulfill your mission
by the power of God's grace.
You’ll walk away encouraged, inspired, and equipped to make a bigger difference in your students’ hearts and lives.
You’ll discover how to rise up out of the anxiety, frustration, and fear that often overwhelm us.
And you’ll be better equipped to teach with faith, trusting God and following His lead each day in the classroom.
Get LIFETIME Access!
Everything is online (no travel needed!).
Come away with solutions, inspiration, & hope!
"The topics were EXACTLY what I needed. I am so glad to know I'm not the only who deals with these issues."
Practical Solutions & Biblical Encouragement ....
Your amazing lineup of sessions designed to inspire you to teach with excellence and shine the light of Christ is in the works!
Check out this year's confirmed speakers & session topics below to get a taste for what was offered in 2023. Full session details can be found here.
Linda Kardamis
8 Easy Ways to Turn Worksheets into Engaging Activities
and
Strategies to Save Time & Find Balance
Kasey Bell
Empower and Engage Students with Digital Choice Boards
and
How to Rise Above a Toxic Work Environment
Crystal Kershaw
Overcoming Anxiety: Examining Its Roots and Shoots and Ways to Make It Leave
Eric Buehrer
How to Improve Student Performance by Supporting Their Faith
David Schmus and Tyson Langhofer
Christian Educators and Alliance Defending Freedom
Legal Session: Legal Issues Facing Educators
Dr. Rebecca Bowman, Morgan Preston, and Mike Hicks
Unlocking Hearts & Minds: Strategies for Reaching Unreachable Students
Dr. Roger Erdvig
Beyond Biblical Integration: Immersing Students in a Biblical Worldview
"Thank you for acknowledging that the darkness is real, and also reminding us that God shines his light in and through us."
- Melissa, teacher
You Are Not Alone!
Get lifetime access to spiritual encouragement, practical ideas, fellowship, and inspiration with the All-Access Pass!
Hear from fellow educators
about last year's summit sessions:
I Needed This
As a public school teacher, it just feels so good to hear God being connected to this major part of my life in such a positive way. Thank you! I needed this.
Helping Maintain a Christ-like Attitude
Connecting with other Christian educators through this summit has really encouraged me and inspired me to maintain a Christ-like attitude at work and look for places to plant seeds. Thank you for making this happen!
Blessed by the Summit
The summit is helping me to grasp hold of Biblical truths, apply them to my life, and to my students and the staff and families in my public school, and rise up to be the person God wants me to be - in my school and in my non-school life, to praise God through the trials and the struggles. I am blessed to be here!
Summit Participant
Teaching is more than a job; it's our mission!
Learn practical strategies to teach with excellence, avoid burn out, and transform your school with the light of His love.
Experts from across the country will bring you practical ideas and inspiration in both live & on-demand sessions, empowering you to rise up and fulfill your God-given mission as an educator.
Our Vision
At Christian Educators and Teach 4 the Heart, we share the same vision.
We believe that teaching is an important calling and that God has you right where you are for a reason.
But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
Challenges abound, the enemy seeks to discourage us, and we feel alone – sometimes struggling to see exactly what God is trying to do on our campus.
That’s why together we’re creating this virtual summit – to encourage and equip Christian educators in both public and private schools.
To bring us together and create a community around our shared goals and mission.
And to raise up a generation of teachers and educational leaders who will step out in faith and embrace God’s heart for their classrooms, students, and schools.
We hope you can be continually encouraged by these sessions!
"I love this conference. It's the highlight of my autumn. You really want to make time for this uplifting and relevant conference."
- Diana, teacher
You Can STILL View ALL Sessions with the
All-Access Pass!
Live Sessions!
Live Sessions occured Thursday & Friday evening as well as throughout the day on Saturday.
On-Demand!
On-Demand Sessions were available any time that fit your schedule Thursday, Oct 19 through Tuesday, Oct 24!
LIVE Session Details:
Check out the details for each LIVE session here:
Thursday, October 19, 2023 at 8:00 PM EST
Summit Kick-Off: 3 Powerful Words to Build Relationships & Shine for Christ
with Mark Batterson, David Schmus & Linda Kardamis
As educators, we are seeing unprecedented levels of discord and conflict, and it often seems like our students have lost critical relationship skills. But God has given us the opportunity to shine light into the darkness. Join us in the Rise Up Kick-Off, as best-selling author Mark Batterson uncovers the hidden power in three common words to heal wounds and build healthier and happier relationships with our students, colleagues, and parents
Friday, October 20, 2023 at
8 PM EST
Motivating Students to Care about Learning
with Dave Stuart, Jr.
Are you struggling with student apathy or a general lack of motivation? Join us as motivation expert Dave Stuart Jr. shares the key factors that affect student motivation and how we as teachers can inspire our students to not only do the work but genuinely care about it.
Friday, October 20, 2023 at
9:00 PM EST
Idea Swap Party
with door prizes!
We all know that the best ideas come from fellow teachers, and hearing what's working for someone else can be invaluable! That's exactly what we'll do in this exciting Idea Swap Party. We'll share ideas, laugh together, enjoy fun giveaways, and more! It's sort of like a party in the teachers' lounge - but without the drama!
Saturday, October 21, 2023 at
11 AM EST
THE DISCOURAGEMENT ANTIDOTE: FINDING OUR WORTH IN CHRIST
with Jill Miller
From a negative observation to an out-of-control class to an unhappy parent, when things go wrong it's easy to feel discouraged and dismayed. This often happens because we tie our worth to how successful our classroom is, but there's a better path. In this session, we will explore the importance of finding our worth in Christ rather than in the success of our teaching. Join us to discover how to cultivate a healthy and secure identity rooted in Christ. You'll also learn practical steps for applying these principles in your teaching and personal life.
Saturday, October 21, 2023 at
1:00 PM EST
strategies to save time & find balance
with Linda Kardamis
Does the constant rush to finish your to-do list leave you frazzled? Could you use some practical strategies to help you save time and finding balance! In this session, get tips and tools for time management, prioritization, and streamlining tasks. Join us to get equipped with the skills you need to achieve a healthier work-life balance and thrive as an educator.
Saturday, October 21, 2023 at
2:30 PM EST
BEATING TEACHER BURNOUT
with Elizabeth Schmus & Heather Kohnen
Teacher burnout hits all of us at some point in our careers, but what do we do when it does? In this transformative session, we’ll explore what it means to be an ambassador of Christ in education, and how this change of perspective is the best antidote to burnout. Join us as we put on an ambassador mindset, bask in God’s love and goodness, and reflect on what God has done and continues to do. You’ll leave inspired and equipped to combat burnout and fulfill your sacred calling as an educator.
Saturday, October 21, 2023 at
4:00 PM EST
summit finale: Rise Up & Shine
with Linda Kardamis & David Schmus
As our culture continues to turn away from God, the world is getting darker, people are more confused, and the future feels uncertain. But rather than shrinking back in fear, God has called us to stand and shine. Join us in the exciting summit finale as we celebrate what God is doing and explore the incredible opportunity we have to shine for Christ & impact students with the light of His love.
Couldn't make it live? Grab the all-access pass instead and watch anytime, anywhere.
Find out more about the all-access pass!
On-Demand Sessions
Below are the On-Demand sessions that were available from October 19-24th.
Light for your heart:
Reducing Stress & Overwhelm
CATEGORY: REDUCING STRESS & OVERWHELM
Finding Strength in God when Teaching is Tough
with Jesica Glover
As teachers, we're often stressed and overwhelmed with all that's asked of us. BUT, as Christian teachers, we know God promises to be with us every day in our classrooms! We don't have to EVER take on all the burdens of teaching alone; we can trust that the God of the universe is lifting us up! Join us as Jesica draws our hearts back to Him and reminds us of the real hope we have as we learn to trust our faithful God.
CATEGORY: REDUCING STRESS & OVERWHELM
Overcoming Anxiety: Examining Its Roots and Shoots and Ways to Make It Leave
with Crystal Kershaw
Have feelings of anxiety become your status quo? So many of us are there, but with God's help, we don't have to be! If you've been struggling to experience the peace God promises His followers, you won't want to miss this session. Join us as Crystal helps us examine the common causes of anxiety, and shares scriptural insights and practical tips to help you overcome it.
CATEGORY: REDUCING STRESS & OVERWHELM
How to Rise Above a Toxic Work Environment
with Kasey Bell
A toxic work environment can infect every area of your life if you let it! But God hasn't abandoned you in this situation. He has a plan for growing you and using you to shine His light (remember, it can shine all the brighter in the dark). Join us in this session for practical help and encouragement as you seek to interact wisely. You'll also learn how to guard your heart and mind in the midst of an unhealthy work situation so bitterness and frustration don't become your norm.
CATEGORY: REDUCING STRESS & OVERWHELM
Connecting with God through Immanuel Journaling
with Lori Adams
As educators who seek to evaluate and improve our teaching, we can easily fall into the trap of cultivating an inner voice that focuses on self-evaluation and self-improvement. As a result, we often get stuck feeling inferior and not good enough. In this practical, step-by-step workshop, you’ll discover Immanuel Journaling, a simple method to leave behind the monologue with self and engage in a dialogue with God, leaving you connected to your loving Father who sees you, empathizes with you, and helps you.
CATEGORY: REDUCING STRESS & OVERWHELM
How to Experience God's Gift of Rest
with Raphael A. Haeuser
Teachers and students are frequently overworked and stressed, but that is not God's intention for us. While God desires us to work hard, He also designed us to rest. In fact, in God's economy, rest is not a privilege or reward for hard work but rather an act of faith and dependence on Him. Join us in this session to discover how to develop healthy limits, patterns of rest, and a balanced lifestyle - and teach your students to do the same.
LIGHT IN YOUR CLASSROOM:
Teaching effectively
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
Teaching in an AI World: Benefits, Challenges & How to Use AI Wisely
with Vicki Davis
ChatGPT and other AI tools are true game-changers, bringing additional challenges to the classroom but also a world of new opportunities. If you're scared, uncertain, confused, or curious about AI, join us as expert Vicki Davis helps us consider how we can approach AI from a Biblical perspective. You'll learn exactly what AI is, how ChatGPT works, and some amazing benefits for teachers and students. We'll then tackle the challenge of academic honesty and discuss how pedagogy may need to change as AI becomes more and more common.
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
Smart Classroom Management Strategies for Today's Classroom
with Michael Linsin
While classroom management has always been a challenge, lately students' behaviors seem to be spinning out of control, plunging educators into confusion and frustration. However, classroom management expert Michael Linsin shares that the solutions aren't actually as complicated as we might think. Join us to discover straightforward strategies to rein in the chaos and create an environment where students can focus and learn.
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
Empower and Engage Students with Digital Choice Boards
with Kasey Bell of Shake Up Learning
Give your students choices in their learning through interactive learning menus and choice boards. In this session, we will explore examples of learning menus and choice boards, talk about instructional design techniques, explore how to differentiate, as well as provide tips and tricks. You'll also walk away with tons of free templates!
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
8 easy ways to turn worksheets into engaging activities
with Linda Kardamis
Are your students bored with practice worksheets? What if you could take your existing worksheets and turn them into more engaging practice activities? Now you can! Join us to learn eight simple transformations that are so simple and easy that you can start using them tomorrow.
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
How to Personalize Instruction without Needing Extra Time
with Dave Bedell
Do you wish you had more time to reteach students who are struggling? Or could allow advanced students to work at a more accelerated rate? Dave Bedell has created a system that allows you to do both without needing any extra prep time or instructional time. Come discover this incredible system that frees you to meet each of your students right where they are and provides personalized instruction that keeps them all engaged and growing.
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
The Breakdown of Classroom Discipline: How We Got Here & What to Do Now
with Daniel Buck
Too many teachers are struggling under the breakdown of school discipline, but the solutions aren’t always obvious. How do we balance the need for accountability and consequences with the call for grace and forgiveness? Join educator and author Daniel Buck for a compelling discussion about the breakdown of school discipline, restorative justice, teacher safety, and much more. You’ll come away with practical strategies you can implement to create a respectful culture in your own classroom, regardless of your school’s approach to discipline.
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
lesson planning the easy way
with Kelly Jackson
Is lesson planning taking way too long or feeling way too difficult? In this practical session, you'll discover a simple system to create effective lesson plans - without the stress and without it taking forever!
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
Online Dual Enrollment: A Path to Academic Excellence
with Colorado Christian University
Join us for an enlightening session on CCU Academy's online dual enrollment program. Discover how this transformative program can accelerate your student's academic journey, providing them with early exposure to affordable, college-level courses and the opportunity to earn valuable credits while still in high school. Learn about the benefits of this flexible and affordable educational pathway and how it can serve as a powerful springboard toward their future academic success. Don't miss this chance to explore the limitless possibilities that await your students through CCU Academy's dual enrollment program!
CATEGORY: TEACHING EFFECTIVELY
Get a World-Class degree online
with Liberty University
Want a graduate degree but don't have time to commute to campus each week? We understand! We have solutions! Learn about Liberty University's online programs with flexible offerings to help you meet your educational goals! This session will provide you with an overview of Liberty’s programs that can help you prepare for a career in teaching, school administration, school counseling, curriculum development, higher education administration, and more.
Light to the world:
Reaching hearts
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
Beyond Biblical Integration: Immersing Students in a biblical worldview
with Dr. Roger Erdvig
Any Christian school worth its salt desires to instill a Biblical worldview in its students. But do we even know what that means, much less how to actually do it? In this session, you'll learn how to go beyond simple Biblical integration to truly immerse your students in a Biblical worldview, helping them embrace Biblical thinking, rather than turn away from it.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
Standing on the Front Lines: Legal Answers for Christian Educators
with David Schmus & Tyson Langhofer of Alliance Defending Freedom
Our nation is in the midst of a profound spiritual and philosophical conflict, and Christian educators are often caught in the middle. Conflicts about race, gender, pronouns, bathrooms, and participation in athletics are often fought primarily in our schools. Do you have legal questions about what you can or can’t say or do in response? Are you concerned about losing your job if you stand up for your beliefs as a Christian? Come get your questions answered and be equipped to stand by attorneys on the front lines of protecting our rights on these issues.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
Transgender to transformed: a testimony of hope & Healing
with Laura Perry Smalts
As Christians, we are called to both truth and love, but sometimes that's easier said than done, especially with sensitive topics like transgenderism. Hearing from someone who has personal experience with the transgender lifestyle can help us have a better understanding of truth along with a heart of compassion as we seek to meet our students where they are.
Join us as Laura Perry Smalts shares her testimony of how God drew her to himself, called her out of transgenderism, and has provided incredible healing in her life. She'll also share insights and advice for interacting with wisdom, truth, and love.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
Unlocking Hearts & Minds: Strategies for Reaching Unreachable Students
with Dr. Rebecca Bowman, Morgan Preston, and Mike Hicks
Every day we encounter students who are disengaged and difficult to connect with. How can we reach them and build the relationships needed to help them grow? In this session, you’ll learn practical strategies to create a safe and supportive learning environment centered around relationship, trust, and communication. You’ll also discover the importance of setting high expectations for all students and empowering them to surpass their own limitations. Leave better equipped to connect and empower every student, unlocking the hidden potential of even the hardest to reach students in your classroom.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
Kingdom Classrooms: Unlocking Your God-Given Teacher Superpower
with Michele Holiday
As educators, we sometimes feel helpless and wonder if we’re actually making a difference. If you want to grow your impact, this session is for you! The Kingdom Classrooms framework empowers teachers to stand in the gap and make a difference by activating your teacher superpower—the power and authority of the Holy Spirit flowing through you. Join us for this practical session where you’ll gain valuable tools to help you impact students, transform your classroom environment, and shape your school culture for His glory.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
How to Improve Student Performance by Supporting Their Faith
with Eric Buehrer
Did you know that research clearly demonstrates that religious belief improves student academic performance as well as social and emotional learning outcomes? Despite this, many public school districts discourage religious expression, often in illegal ways. Come learn how to appropriately encourage your students to express their faith. You’ll also discover the related academic benefits and experience a training tool that is encouraging public school districts across the country to become faith-welcoming environments. Leave with confidence about what you can and can’t do as a Christian educator.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
hOW TO UNEARTH THE TRUE MEANING OF DIFFICULT SCRIPTURE PASSAGES
with Jeff Piepho
Do you ever feel unprepared to respond to difficult questions about God or the Scriptures? Or perhaps you have your own questions that you’d like to address. In this session, Pastor Jeff Piepho shares a simple system that helps anyone analyze Scripture and interpret it correctly. Discover how you can use this system to aid your own personal study, answer students’ questions, or teach students how to rightly consider Scripture for themselves.
CATEGORY: REACHING HEARTS
A Relational Response to Racism
with Susan Quindag
Race and racism can be daunting topics for Christian educators in both public and Christian schools. In this session, Dr. Susan Quindag offers a refreshing and Biblical approach that is focused on relationships. Discover how a relationship mindset can help us better understand each other and create profound connectedness, meaningful growth, and heartfelt action.
YES, I'm Ready to Rise Up!
Encounter new strategies & mindset shifts that will help you diminish stress, teach more effectively, and shine for Christ in your classroom!
Get lifetime access to all the sessions from our 2023 Rise Up Summit!
What teachers are saying:
Special Thanks to our Summit Sponsors!
FAQ
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Yes! You can watch all the sessions for free anytime throughout the weekend of October 19-24. If you’d like to keep access after the weekend, you may purchase the all-access pass.
We'll be releasing more details about the sessions as we finalize the schedule.
The Rise Up summit is comprised of two types of sessions which can be viewed during overlapping windows:
- ON-DEMAND Sessions can be watched any time throughout the summit from October 19 - 24.
- LIVE Sessions will occur the evenings of October 19-21.
All-access pass holders may continue to watch after the summit ends. Get more information about the all-access pass here.
Certificates of attendance will be available for all-access pass holders ONLY.
ACSI Teachers: The summit has been approved for 9 ACSI CEU’s following 9 hours of combined session attendance. In order to verify attendance at your 9 viewed sessions, certificates of attendance and ACSI CEUs will only be awarded to all-access holders.
This year, we are partnering with Hope Outfitters to get our Summit participants 20% off of ALL their products, including this official Summit "Be Light" shirt. Use the coupon code SHINE2023.
Yes! Your school can pay for an All-Access pass on your behalf!
Simply print and submit the forms below to your administration based on the school setting in which you teach.
Nope! Everything is online, and all you need is internet access. We’ll send you the links at the event gets closer.
I’m so sorry you can’t join us live. However, we are offering an all-access pass that will include video recordings of all the summit sessions. You can get more information about the all-access pass here.
Email us at linda@teach4theheart.com
Rise Up Christian Educators Virtual Summit is presented by Christian Educators and Teach 4 the Heart. © 2023
CONTACT US | SIGN UP | BECOME A SPONSOR
Rise Up Christian Educators Virtual Summit is presented by Christian Educators Association International (CEAI) and Teach 4 the Heart. © 2022
CONTACT US | SIGN UP