Cathy Dotson | Ep. 169
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Your Best Marketing Strategy Is Already in the Classroom
Show Notes:
“We spend money on brochures and ads, but the teacher can make it or break it.” - Cathy Dotson
“We’re not just pulling people to our school—we’re pulling people to the Lord.” - Cathy Dotson
As schools enter open house season, launch enrollment campaigns, and invest in marketing strategies for the year ahead, one truth often gets overlooked: your most powerful marketing tool is already inside your building.
In this episode of Teacher Edition, host Jenny Copeland welcomes back Cathy Dotson, elementary principal at Wilmington Christian Academy, to unpack why teachers, not billboards, websites, or ads, are the true voice of a school’s story.
Through real-life examples, practical insights, and hard-earned leadership wisdom, Cathy challenges both teachers and school leaders to rethink marketing, retention, and culture—starting in the classroom.
Key Topics & Takeaways:
Why teachers are a school’s most trusted and influential marketers
How daily classroom interactions shape a family’s long-term perception
The powerful connection between teacher morale and enrollment retention
Why communication, warmth, and tone matter more than polished branding
Best practices for teachers using social media responsibly and effectively
Measuring success through re-enrollment, culture, and family trust
“If parents feel heard and feel like their child is loved, they don’t want to go anywhere else.” - Cathy Dotson
Resources Mentioned
Tools for Marketing:
ClassDojo – https://www.classdojo.com/
Google Classroom – https://sites.google.com/view/classrooms-workspace/
School Newsletters
Social media (school & classroom-level)
Re-enrollment tracking
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 Dotson
Cathy Dotson is a dedicated professional with over 30 years in full-time Christian service, primarily as a teacher and principal. Currently serving as the elementary principal at Wilmington Christian Academy in Wilmington, NC, Cathy's educational journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to Christian education. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education, a master's degree in educational leadership, and an Ed.D. in instructional leadership, a testament to her academic and professional accomplishments. Cathy's fervor for Christian education, coupled with her wealth of experience and wisdom, is truly infectious. She remains an active speaker on a diverse range of topics, consistently spreading her passion for Christian education and positively influencing those she encounters.
Podcast Sponsor:
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.
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