Develop disciples- not just learners
This track equips Christian school leaders to cultivate a culture of spiritual formation that permeates every area of school life. Rooted in a Biblical understanding of students as Image Bearers and guided by Jesus’ model of discipleship, participants will explore how faculty, staff, and parents can work together to support students’ spiritual growth. Through evaluating current practices, engaging new ideas, and developing an actionable plan, leaders will be equipped to intentionally embed discipleship and formation practices into the daily rhythms and long-term culture of their school.
Please Note: Sessions for BPI 2025 are still being finalized. The sessions listed below are examples and may be subject to change, but they provide a preview of the types of learning experiences you can expect.
Who Should Join this Track?
Spiritual Life Directors
Academic Deans
Principals
Heads of School
example sessions
Session #1:
Building a Christ-Centered School Culture
This session will explore how to infuse a Biblical worldview into every aspect of school life—beyond chapel and Bible classes. Participants will learn practical strategies to create a culture where students are encouraged to grow spiritually through intentional discipleship, relationships, and daily rhythms that reflect Christ.
Presenter
Doug Franklin
Session #2 :
Discipleship Beyond the Classroom: Mentoring Students for Lifelong Faith
How can Christian schools cultivate authentic faith in students? This session will discuss the power of mentorship and relational discipleship, equipping educators with tools to intentionally invest in students’ spiritual growth and model what it means to follow Jesus in daily life.
Presenter
Doug Franklin
Session #3:
Chapel with Purpose: Crafting Transformational Worship Experiences
Chapel is a cornerstone of spiritual life in Christian schools. In this session, participants will learn how to design chapel programs that are engaging, gospel-centered, and formative. From planning worship to selecting speakers, discover ways to create chapel experiences that inspire students to deepen their faith.
Presenter
Doug Franklin
Session #4:
Integrating Spiritual Formation into Academics
This session will provide practical guidance on how to intentionally weave Biblical principles into classroom teaching across all subjects. Educators will learn how to create opportunities for students to see God’s truth in science, history, literature, and beyond—equipping them with a holistic, Christ-centered education.
Presenter
Doug Franklin
Session #5:
Cultivating Hearts for Service: Fostering an Others-Centered Mindset
Jesus calls us to serve others selflessly. This session will explore how Christian schools can encourage students to develop a heart for service and missions. Participants will gain insights into service-learning opportunities, mission trips, and school-wide initiatives that empower students to live out their faith by serving their communities and the world.
Presenter
Doug Franklin
Faculty
Brian Hogan
Dean of Spiritual Formation and Campus Life | Wheaton Academy
At WA since 2019
BA, Hardin-Simmons University
MA, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
Brian Hogan joined Wheaton Academy as the Dean of Chapel and Spiritual Formation in 2019. Brian is a familiar face to many. He and his wife Amy have been part of the Wheaton Academy community as parents and Brian has also served as a Winterim Guest Instructor for several years. Brian’s ministry experiences, his pastoral heart, strong theological background, leadership ability, and musical giftedness make him uniquely qualified for this position. He spent 15 years as the Worship and Creative Arts Pastor at Wheaton Bible Church. Before that role, he was the Student Pastor at First Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Brian is humbled and excited to work with staff and students alike to deepen the impact of chapel and establish a positive student and discipleship culture at Wheaton Academy.
Brad Thornton
Principal | Wheaton Academy
At WA since 2013
BA English, Wheaton College
MAT Instructional & Curriculum Leadership, University of Memphis
MA School Leadership, Baylor University
Brad Thornton is a 2007 graduate of Wheaton College and holds two Masters degrees, one in Instructional & Curriculum Leadership from the University of Memphis and another in School Leadership from Baylor University. Prior to joining the Wheaton Academy team, Brad spent six years teaching English and coaching football and track at Evangelical Christian School in Memphis, TN. Over the past twelve years at Wheaton Academy, Brad has faithfully served in a variety of roles—from classroom teacher and coach, to department head and campus leader. Among his contributions, Brad played a vital role in securing our recognition as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Brad and his wife Tara are originally from this area and they have four children.
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With 10 Intensive Tracks, there’s something for everyone on your team.