The Heart Behind the Handbook: Creating Policies That Point to Christ

“A handbook is a tool to communicate agreed-upon expectations to create an environment that allows for disciple makers to direct students into God-glorifying relationships with their Creator.” — Paul Rebert

Every Christian school has a handbook or rule book, but are we using it correctly? 

In this episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast, Paul Rebert brings a refreshing biblical perspective to one of the most challenging aspects of Christian school leadership: managing expectations through rule books and handbooks. Paul brings a pastoral perspective to educational policies, sharing his burden for students who have been wounded by legalistic approaches to Christian school rules. He emphasizes the importance of handbooks and how they create safe learning environments and shape students’ hearts and share the love of Christ with them. 

Paul shares practical insights on:

• What a handbook should and shouldn't accomplish
• Biblical reasons for school expectations (safety, order, accountability, character development)
• How to handle disagreements with a four-step biblical approach: submit, appeal, leave, or stand
• The importance of communicating the “why” behind your rules
• Creating team unity among faculty regarding school policies

This episode provides essential tools for any Christian educator dealing with handbook tensions, offering biblical wisdom that transforms policy enforcement from a source of conflict into an opportunity for discipleship and relationship building.

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 Paul Rebert serves as both superintendent of First Baptist Christian School and senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Danville, Illinois. He is also the president of the Illinois Association of Christian Schools. Paul grew up in Virginia and met his wife while teaching in Indiana. They have three children and are passionate about creating educational environments that point students toward Christ rather than away from Him. Paul brings a unique pastoral heart to educational leadership, focusing on how Christian schools can avoid legalism while maintaining biblical standards.

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]