Katie Vance | Ep. 164

“I’m Not a Math Person”—Now What?

Show Notes:

“Math only works because it describes consistencies that God holds in place.” - Katie Vance

“What type of class would you want to sit in? And then create it.” - Katie Vance

Math doesn’t have to be the “necessary evil.” In this episode, Jenny Copeland sits down with Katie Vance, an experienced Christian educator who once struggled with math but learned to see God’s fingerprints all over it.

Together, they explore why so many students (and even teachers) dislike math, what truly helps students engage and understand, and how math can point learners to a faithful, truth-telling God. Katie shares her honest journey from teaching math through memorization to embracing student-centered learning that invites curiosity, participation, and deeper understanding.

Key Takeaways for Teachers:

• If students hate math, it’s often because they don’t understand it yet, not because they “aren’t math people.”

• Teachers grow when they move from “teach what I know” to “keep learning alongside my students.”

• Math is a powerful place to disciple hearts: it can point students to truth, dependence on God, and a faithful Creator.

• The classroom isn’t just about grades; it’s an eternal investment.

• Katie encourages educators to take the pressure off perfection and simply take the next step in growing as teachers and learners.

“Everyone’s a math person because our Creator is—and we’re made in His image.” - Katie Vance

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!

Resources Mentioned:

• Polypad (Mathigon) – A free, interactive online “math playground” and whiteboard tool

• Revealing Arithmetic Math Concepts from A Biblical Worldview by Katherine A. Loop

• Mathematical Mindsets by Jo Boaler

About Our Guest:

Katie Vance

Katie Vance has been in Christian education for 20 years – teaching at the same school she graduated from Gunnery Road Christian Academy Fort Myers, Florida. She currently teaches Bible and Math. She has an undergraduate degree in Women’s Ministries and a Master’s degree in Biblical Counseling. Katie is also a certified biblical counselor with ACBC.

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.