Private Christian School Education: A Value-Rich Environment

At the end of the long and busy first week of school, I sat down with a Grande Americano (4 pumps of vanilla, 1 packet of raw sugar, with a little cream) in an out-of-the-way nook at the Mall. Reflection is a tool I use to help sort out my thoughts and make sense of life events.

For the first time in 13 years, I am teaching again. This time it is a World Religions class with a group of wonderful seniors. In order to establish a foundation for the course, we are exploring the central thought of faith as a human universal and that “we are endowed at birth with nascent capacities for faith.” (James W. Fowler)

While some educational environments attempt to offer a valueless environment, the Christian school environment is a purposeful and intentional value-rich environment. Ethics, integrity, truth, and values are intrinsically linked to the ethos of Christian schools.

I was researching the topic of integrity the other evening and came across the following quote from Success Will Come and Go, But Integrity Is Forever:

“If I could teach only one value to live by, it would be this: Success will come and go, but integrity is forever. Integrity means doing the right thing at all times and in all circumstances, whether or not anyone is watching. It takes having the courage to do the right thing, no matter what the consequences will be. Building a reputation of integrity takes years, but it takes only a second to lose, so never allow yourself to ever do anything that would damage your integrity.” (Amy Anderson)

Unfortunately, integrity is easily forgotten in the name of expediency and viewed as a weakness. Consequences will always follow our actions, good or bad. Success is inhibited by lack of ethics and integrity. Without them, it's like telling one lie to cover another. At some point in time the lies catch up to us. After reading one of my posts on a social media page about integrity, my daughter replied, "The understated reward for being someone of integrity is much greater that the overstated reward of today's definition of success.

Though I do not know anything about her personal faith I think Amy Anderson is on-point when she says “integrity is forever.” Among the many values that are stressed in Christian schools, integrity is of primary concern. I've heard it said that integrity is a brother to ethics. If we miss these two pieces of the puzzle, we are destitute.

Teaching and working in a Christian school is a rewarding experience. We are able to create a place where students can explore their faith, experience God on a personal level, and expose them to an educational environment that seeks to integrate faith and learning. Christian education must lead the way and be decidedly value-rich in knowledge and the ultimate truths of God!

For we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man.

(II Corinthians 8:21)

Follow this link to read Amy Anderson's article in its entirety: http://www.forbes.com/sites/amyanderson/2012/11/28/success-will-come-and-go-but-integrity-is-forever/

How To Have A Successful Year In School

A friend asked me to write about what it takes for students to be successful in school. Starring at my computer screen trying to get started, my attention was drawn to the “enter” key. Preparing for the beginning of a new school year gives us the opportunity to reflect and start over.

So, here are my recommendations for a successful school year.

Put God First

Jesus encouraged His followers to “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). I tend to think of this as centering our life in God. By doing this we understand the really important things in life: our relationship with God and with others. Putting God first maintains our focus on learning more about Him and having a positive impact on the people around us. Our life belongs to God – what we do, how we act, and how we prepare for the future is incredibly important.

Be a Student

I like this definition of “student”: one who studies - an attentive and systematic observer (Merriam-Webster). A student makes learning a priority; they are tenacious, determined, and resolute. If you do not understand those terms, go look them up – http://www.merriam-webster.com/. Students have one major job: learn through careful analysis, thoughtful observation, and reflective research.

Invest in Positive Relationships

Building healthy friendships is critical to success in the middle/high school years. Friendships can help make you a better student and support you when life gets challenging. We tend to take on the values and perspectives of our friends.  If you don’t like negative conversations and “drama,” then don’t hang around that environment. I Corinthians 15:33 says, “Bad company corrupts good morals.” Surround yourself with friends who will make you a better person and student and you will be more successful in school and in life.

As we prepare to hit the “enter” key on the new school year, what choices will you make in order to be successful this year? Dedicate your life and this year to God. Take your academics seriously. Be the type of friend who challenges others to do their best in school and in life.

Now, press enter to begin the adventure of a new school year!

Because the sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore, I have set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame. Isaiah 50:7