“When parents come onto campus and they see teachers worshiping the Lord, they see the tenderness. The way our teachers interact with their child in an organic setting ... that builds a trust with our parents.” — Cathy Polyak

A very common topic Jenny hears in her conversations with educators and with podcast listeners is around chapel services. In this episode, Jenny sits down with Cathy Polyak, a Christian educator for twenty-six years, to talk about this valuable offering inside our schools: chapel. Cathy shares the purpose and primary goals of chapel and how to engage children of all ages.

You will hear practical takeaways such as:

• Setting the tone: Transitioning students into a worship mindset
• Structural elements that create engaging, interactive services
• Teacher involvement: Setting expectations while honoring unique gifts and comfort levels
• Parent engagement: Creating ultimate partnership through shared worship experiences
• Starting strategies: Praying for wisdom and creativity to build your own thriving chapel program

There are so many voices vying for the attention of our children and ourselves. Chapel provides an opportunity to hear God’s Word and biblical truths while deepening relationships among teachers, students, and parents. Cathy reminds us chapel isn’t just another school requirement — it is a powerful tool for building community and pointing families toward Christ.

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace working in you.

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Cathy Polyak has dedicated the last twenty-six years of her life to serving in Christian education. She has spent time in children’s ministry, the classroom, and now in administration. She has called International Christian Academy in Las Vegas, Nevada, home for more than twenty years, and she currently serves as the K-8th grade principal. With a passion to see children and families know who God is and live out an active faith, Cathy leads her elementary school’s weekly chapel services. Her call to shepherd children’s hearts through engaging chapel lessons has helped to grow a thriving chapel program and develop a vibrant school culture. Cathy and her husband have been married for 35 years, have three adult children and one daughter-in-law, and enjoy time with their two miniature schnoodles.

Sponsored By Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. [bjupress.com]