EmpowerCentral 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.