Is it so hard to believe that the omnipresent God of the universe knew exactly what He was doing when He placed you and me in Christian school education?
In an article entitled, Do I Belong in the Christian School, Christian school superintendent Karen Winter asks the above question and challenges readers to understand the calling they have received and to appreciate the privilege and responsibility of being involved in Christian school ministry.
Click here to read the full text of this article.
As you read this article, be reminded:
“. . . doing God’s will is a matter of simple obedience and walking in that conviction each day—especially those days that bring challenges and momentary discouragement. We fulfill God’s will when we walk in complete, dedicated confidence that God called us into Christian education. We fulfill God’s will when we remain fully committed.”
“There is no greater privilege or honor than serving in Christian education. It’s not for the fainthearted but for the steadfast, visionary Christian educator who will help determine our nation’s future. This exceptional career is for the faithful educators who hear God’s call and then respond by walking in persistent obedience as they anticipate the most exciting real-life transformations imaginable. Christian education is for those who are determined to make the greatest impact in the lives of students. I can’t imagine anything greater than serving in a Christian school and making it my personal commitment for an entire lifetime.”
As you begin another school year, may you be committed to making a difference in the lives of your students . . . and “serve where God has called [you], despite the obstacles and difficult challenges that arise.”
Have a great 2008-2009!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
From the President. . .
Dr. Timothy Sierer, MACSA President
The Christian Academy ~ Brookhaven, PA
In just a few short weeks the hallways of each of your respective schools will be buzzing with the sounds of returning students for the ’08-’09 school year. It is difficult to believe that the summer has come and gone. The start of another school year presents us with tremendous opportunities to influence your students for Jesus Christ. During the course of this year it will be your privilege, as teachers in the Christian classroom, to help your students gain a better grasp of the character of God. This understanding develops as a result of the studying of His Word and the various academic disciplines that make up your curriculum.
The job of a Christian school teacher is huge. Not only are you attempting to adequately train your students academically, but you are also seeking to sow the seeds of God’s Word into their lives. Seeds that in God’s timing will bring about a transformation of the heart. This ‘sowing’ comes at a time when there is a great battle for the hearts and minds of the students in your classrooms. Without a doubt, you are fighting against a culture that has in many ways captured the hearts and minds of the students in your school. With that knowledge it would be very easy to become discouraged about the prospects for the future. However, you serve a God who is greater than the worldly forces that work against you.
As a classroom teacher, the start of any year brings with it new challenges as you learn to know the individual needs of each student. What reassurance comes with the knowledge that God has purposefully placed in your class those students for whom you are uniquely qualified to teach. As you review your class lists know that each student has been placed there by an omniscient God who is fully aware of each child’s needs even before the first day of school. Moreover, each child has been placed there because you are uniquely qualified to meet those needs. What peace comes as a result of knowing that you serve a God that cares about each minute detail of our lives as to ‘match’ your students with you for a specific purpose. With that knowledge, you can face whatever comes your way this year because you know that your God is greater than any circumstance or situation.
May God truly bless you as you invest into the spiritual, and intellectual, development of your students.
The Christian Academy ~ Brookhaven, PA
In just a few short weeks the hallways of each of your respective schools will be buzzing with the sounds of returning students for the ’08-’09 school year. It is difficult to believe that the summer has come and gone. The start of another school year presents us with tremendous opportunities to influence your students for Jesus Christ. During the course of this year it will be your privilege, as teachers in the Christian classroom, to help your students gain a better grasp of the character of God. This understanding develops as a result of the studying of His Word and the various academic disciplines that make up your curriculum.
The job of a Christian school teacher is huge. Not only are you attempting to adequately train your students academically, but you are also seeking to sow the seeds of God’s Word into their lives. Seeds that in God’s timing will bring about a transformation of the heart. This ‘sowing’ comes at a time when there is a great battle for the hearts and minds of the students in your classrooms. Without a doubt, you are fighting against a culture that has in many ways captured the hearts and minds of the students in your school. With that knowledge it would be very easy to become discouraged about the prospects for the future. However, you serve a God who is greater than the worldly forces that work against you.
As a classroom teacher, the start of any year brings with it new challenges as you learn to know the individual needs of each student. What reassurance comes with the knowledge that God has purposefully placed in your class those students for whom you are uniquely qualified to teach. As you review your class lists know that each student has been placed there by an omniscient God who is fully aware of each child’s needs even before the first day of school. Moreover, each child has been placed there because you are uniquely qualified to meet those needs. What peace comes as a result of knowing that you serve a God that cares about each minute detail of our lives as to ‘match’ your students with you for a specific purpose. With that knowledge, you can face whatever comes your way this year because you know that your God is greater than any circumstance or situation.
May God truly bless you as you invest into the spiritual, and intellectual, development of your students.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Teaching to Change Lives
Seven Proven Ways to Make Your Teaching Come Alive
By Dr. Howard Hendricks
Teaching to Change Lives outlines seven proven, easy-to-grasp principles any teacher can apply. These strategic concepts call for a passion to communicate. In the introduction to the book, Dr. Hendricks writes, “My heart’s concern for you is that God will give a passion . . . and [you] will never let it die. And I hope that you never get over the thrill that someone will actually listen to you . . . and learn from you.”
Catch Hendricks’ enthusiasm and learn from his experience as you discover how you can practice the best type of teaching: Teaching to Change Lives!
The Law of the Teacher
If you stop growing today, you stop teaching tomorrow.
The Law of Education
The way people learn determines how you teach.
The Law of Activity
Maximum learning is always the result of maximum involvement.
The Law of Communication
To truly impart information requires the building of bridges.
The Law of the Heart
Teaching that impacts is not head to head, but heart to heart.
The Law of Encouragement
Teaching tends to be most effective when the learner is properly motivated.
The Law of Readiness
The teaching-learning process will be most effective when both student and teacher are adequately prepared.
This article was adapted from The Seven Laws of the Teacher DVD Curriculum by Howard Hendricks, © 1988, 2008 Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved.
The Seven Laws of the Teacher DVD Curriculum is available at www.walkthru.org.
By Dr. Howard Hendricks
Teaching to Change Lives outlines seven proven, easy-to-grasp principles any teacher can apply. These strategic concepts call for a passion to communicate. In the introduction to the book, Dr. Hendricks writes, “My heart’s concern for you is that God will give a passion . . . and [you] will never let it die. And I hope that you never get over the thrill that someone will actually listen to you . . . and learn from you.”
Catch Hendricks’ enthusiasm and learn from his experience as you discover how you can practice the best type of teaching: Teaching to Change Lives!
The Law of the Teacher
If you stop growing today, you stop teaching tomorrow.
The Law of Education
The way people learn determines how you teach.
The Law of Activity
Maximum learning is always the result of maximum involvement.
The Law of Communication
To truly impart information requires the building of bridges.
The Law of the Heart
Teaching that impacts is not head to head, but heart to heart.
The Law of Encouragement
Teaching tends to be most effective when the learner is properly motivated.
The Law of Readiness
The teaching-learning process will be most effective when both student and teacher are adequately prepared.
This article was adapted from The Seven Laws of the Teacher DVD Curriculum by Howard Hendricks, © 1988, 2008 Walk Thru the Bible Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved.
The Seven Laws of the Teacher DVD Curriculum is available at www.walkthru.org.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Good Children's Literature is Essential
"In a day and age when reading good books has never been of greater need for our children, parents and teachers owe Elizabeth McCallum and Jane Scott a deep debt of gratitude for the wonderful service they have provided by compiling this updated second edition of their book. It is a mandatory companion for any home or school."— Patch Blakey, Executive Director, The Association of Classical & Christian Schools
Good Children's Literature is Essential
A Word from the Authors
We wrote our book because a book of this sort is greatly needed. The Book Tree is a recommended reading list for all ages, from preschool through high school, and it includes several unique features. It contains a selective array of excellent books for each age group. We believe with Walter de la Mare that “only the rarest kind of best of anything can be good enough for the young,” so we have spent many years researching and reading old books and new, classics as well as recent releases. In this book, we provide a recommended list of classic books, as well as books by Christian authors, some little-known books by great writers and poets, and a sizable collection of inspiring biographies. Of course, we do not think that these are the only books worth reading. In fact, we are discovering new favorites all the time. We are simply sharing with you some of the books that we have especially enjoyed.
Table of Contents:
1. Preschool Literature
2. Elementary School Fiction
3. Middle School Fiction
4. Elementary & Middle School Biography
5. High School Fiction
6. High School Biography
Also Includes:
Title Index
Author Index
Illustrator Index
Subject Index
Publishers Description:
Once upon a time, a carpenter entered a forest and happened upon a wolf wearing a feathered cap. Quick, whose side are you on? If you don't know, then keep reading. Stories provide a roadmap for life. This is because stories are life. But oftentimes it's easiest to understand where we are when we can look through other eyes—from the perspective of someone else, living somewhere else, somewhen else.
If you thought you knew The Book Tree, think again. Jane and Elizabeth have updated this charming book with over 100 new book reviews, and whimsical illustrations from recommended titles are scattered throughout. New formatting and four indexes (title, author, illustrator, and subject) make it easier than ever to browse for that next well-worn favorite.
For those beginning to read for the first time or those beginning to read again, The Book Tree will drop golden apples in your lap, until you can climb high enough to pick for yourself.
About the Authors:
Elizabeth McCallum (M.A. English, University of Houston) has taught high school and college English for thirty years. She currently teaches English at Covenant Christian Academy (Cumming, GA) and conducts seminars on literature and English for both parents and teachers.
Jane Scott (B.A. English, Covenant College) spends much of her time managing her home and teaching. Her husband, Martin, serves in the Georgia legislature, and they live in northwest Georgia with their four girls.
Click here to see a sample of the book and to watch The Book Tree advertising trailer.
Good Children's Literature is Essential
A Word from the Authors
We wrote our book because a book of this sort is greatly needed. The Book Tree is a recommended reading list for all ages, from preschool through high school, and it includes several unique features. It contains a selective array of excellent books for each age group. We believe with Walter de la Mare that “only the rarest kind of best of anything can be good enough for the young,” so we have spent many years researching and reading old books and new, classics as well as recent releases. In this book, we provide a recommended list of classic books, as well as books by Christian authors, some little-known books by great writers and poets, and a sizable collection of inspiring biographies. Of course, we do not think that these are the only books worth reading. In fact, we are discovering new favorites all the time. We are simply sharing with you some of the books that we have especially enjoyed.
Table of Contents:
1. Preschool Literature
2. Elementary School Fiction
3. Middle School Fiction
4. Elementary & Middle School Biography
5. High School Fiction
6. High School Biography
Also Includes:
Title Index
Author Index
Illustrator Index
Subject Index
Publishers Description:
Once upon a time, a carpenter entered a forest and happened upon a wolf wearing a feathered cap. Quick, whose side are you on? If you don't know, then keep reading. Stories provide a roadmap for life. This is because stories are life. But oftentimes it's easiest to understand where we are when we can look through other eyes—from the perspective of someone else, living somewhere else, somewhen else.
If you thought you knew The Book Tree, think again. Jane and Elizabeth have updated this charming book with over 100 new book reviews, and whimsical illustrations from recommended titles are scattered throughout. New formatting and four indexes (title, author, illustrator, and subject) make it easier than ever to browse for that next well-worn favorite.
For those beginning to read for the first time or those beginning to read again, The Book Tree will drop golden apples in your lap, until you can climb high enough to pick for yourself.
About the Authors:
Elizabeth McCallum (M.A. English, University of Houston) has taught high school and college English for thirty years. She currently teaches English at Covenant Christian Academy (Cumming, GA) and conducts seminars on literature and English for both parents and teachers.
Jane Scott (B.A. English, Covenant College) spends much of her time managing her home and teaching. Her husband, Martin, serves in the Georgia legislature, and they live in northwest Georgia with their four girls.
Click here to see a sample of the book and to watch The Book Tree advertising trailer.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Don't Take the Whole Summer Off - Remember to Pray!
Summer has arrived!
We have heard the final bell – watched our graduates triumphantly “recess” from their graduation ceremony – said the last goodbye to fellow teachers who will be moving on to new areas of ministry.
The school year that just a few short months ago held such promise and anticipation is over – and now the desks are empty, the chalkboard is clean and washed- the promise of the 2007-2008 school has been realized and the many events of the school year are now a memory.
While the “responsibilities” of being a teacher might be over for the summer (you did turn in your grade book and plan book, didn’t you) – you are never really “done” being their teacher! Your influence goes beyond the walls of your classroom and beyond the calendar! If you haven’t had the experience yet – you will (if you teach long enough) to have adults point in your direction and whisper to their children “That’s Mrs. Smith – she was MY third grade teacher.” Those who are bold enough will approach you wearing their best “you remember me” smile and will be able to recall with vivid clarity something that you said and/or did during that 3rd grade year – and expect that you will, too!
As we are still in the “early stages” of summer, please take a few minutes to remember your class – recall them one by one – say each name aloud and thank God for the privilege of being “their” teacher and for the opportunity you had to be part of their lives for just a moment in time!
Pray for them throughout the summer and as the summer winds down, begin praying for the students who will be in your class for the upcoming school year. You don’t have to wait for your class roster to begin praying – pray for the students, their parents and for the transition of new students/families into your school.
But above all – remember to pray for yourself – that God will prepare you for a new year of ministry and that you will be looking forward to the new school year – one that will be filled with promise and anticipation!
We have heard the final bell – watched our graduates triumphantly “recess” from their graduation ceremony – said the last goodbye to fellow teachers who will be moving on to new areas of ministry.
The school year that just a few short months ago held such promise and anticipation is over – and now the desks are empty, the chalkboard is clean and washed- the promise of the 2007-2008 school has been realized and the many events of the school year are now a memory.
While the “responsibilities” of being a teacher might be over for the summer (you did turn in your grade book and plan book, didn’t you) – you are never really “done” being their teacher! Your influence goes beyond the walls of your classroom and beyond the calendar! If you haven’t had the experience yet – you will (if you teach long enough) to have adults point in your direction and whisper to their children “That’s Mrs. Smith – she was MY third grade teacher.” Those who are bold enough will approach you wearing their best “you remember me” smile and will be able to recall with vivid clarity something that you said and/or did during that 3rd grade year – and expect that you will, too!
As we are still in the “early stages” of summer, please take a few minutes to remember your class – recall them one by one – say each name aloud and thank God for the privilege of being “their” teacher and for the opportunity you had to be part of their lives for just a moment in time!
Pray for them throughout the summer and as the summer winds down, begin praying for the students who will be in your class for the upcoming school year. You don’t have to wait for your class roster to begin praying – pray for the students, their parents and for the transition of new students/families into your school.
But above all – remember to pray for yourself – that God will prepare you for a new year of ministry and that you will be looking forward to the new school year – one that will be filled with promise and anticipation!
Friday, June 27, 2008
MACSA Scholarships Announced!
Barbara Williams, MACSA Vice President and Chair of the MACSA Scholarship Committee
Lehigh Christian Academy ~ Allentown, PA
Each year MACSA awards several scholarships to educators (teachers and/or principals) in Christian schools who will be taking graduate courses during the upcoming summer months. The Lord has continued to bless this effort and each year we award a scholarship to several candidates.
This year we had over fifty applicants and awarded eight scholarships. The educators chosen answered questions about their educational background, current responsibilities, future plans, and the impact that the coursework would have on their professional growth.
We trust that we will be able to continue to offer these scholarships to teachers and administrators dedicated to Christian education and the students they serve.
· Stephanie Cruz (Calvary Academy, Lakewood, NJ)
· Vivian Dippold (Penn Christian Academy, Norristown, PA)
· Mary Catherine Fox (Crossroads Christian Academy, Clinton, NJ)
· Mark Gebhardt (Cumberland Christian School, Vineland, NJ)
· Thomas Hoffman (Grace and Peace Academy, Toms River, NJ)
· Alice Latouk (Calvary Academy, Lakewood, NJ)
· Linda Marvin (Seaford Christian Academy, Seaford, DE)
· Christine Mitcheltree (Meadowbrook Christian School, Milton, PA)
Lehigh Christian Academy ~ Allentown, PA
Each year MACSA awards several scholarships to educators (teachers and/or principals) in Christian schools who will be taking graduate courses during the upcoming summer months. The Lord has continued to bless this effort and each year we award a scholarship to several candidates.
This year we had over fifty applicants and awarded eight scholarships. The educators chosen answered questions about their educational background, current responsibilities, future plans, and the impact that the coursework would have on their professional growth.
We trust that we will be able to continue to offer these scholarships to teachers and administrators dedicated to Christian education and the students they serve.
· Stephanie Cruz (Calvary Academy, Lakewood, NJ)
· Vivian Dippold (Penn Christian Academy, Norristown, PA)
· Mary Catherine Fox (Crossroads Christian Academy, Clinton, NJ)
· Mark Gebhardt (Cumberland Christian School, Vineland, NJ)
· Thomas Hoffman (Grace and Peace Academy, Toms River, NJ)
· Alice Latouk (Calvary Academy, Lakewood, NJ)
· Linda Marvin (Seaford Christian Academy, Seaford, DE)
· Christine Mitcheltree (Meadowbrook Christian School, Milton, PA)
Effective Ministry Leadership
Dr. James Jeffery
President, Baptist Bible College
This article was orignially printed in the Spring 2005 edition of the MACSA Bridge. Dr. Jeffery was the keynote speaker at the November 2004 MACSA Convention.
Our mission at Baptist Bible College, Graduate School, and Seminary is to provide excellence in biblical education for effectiveness in ministry leadership. The needs of the local church and those it partners with as it fulfills its mission on Christ’s behalf in a broken world demand the right kind of leaders. They must be Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered, servant leaders who stand ready to take their places according to God’s call. They are able to influence others toward God’s purposes.
What are the characteristics of these leaders?
Convictions
Effective ministry leaders are the result of theological formation. They have put deep roots down into the soil of the Word of God. Because of this, they know what they believe and why they believe it.
Commitment
Spiritual formation shapes leaders to be committed to the lordship of Christ over all of life. These leaders are committed to Christ’s cause in the Great Commission and the local church as the center of God’s program on Earth.
Character
Leaders must earn the trust and respect of those they influence. That comes from being conformed to Christ as the fruit of the Spirit is developed on the vine of character. Who we are inside determines what we do in ministry.
Competencies
Effective ministry leaders develop leadership, specific ministry, and personal competencies to be effective. The Book of Nehemiah gives an outstanding example of leadership competencies. Nehemiah was unwilling to accept the status quo of the broken-down wall. He inspired a shared vision, mobilized people to team up, encouraged the people, and set the example.
Capacities
No two servants of Christ are the same. As we follow Christ, He shapes us individually to become effective leaders. That comes from knowing yourself as you discover the way God has designed you for ministry with your gifts, personality, and experience. It also comes from growing through lifelong learning and mentoring.
As these five "C's" are integrated into every aspect of life and ministry, we will be effective in carrying out the Great Commission of Acts 1:8.
President, Baptist Bible College
This article was orignially printed in the Spring 2005 edition of the MACSA Bridge. Dr. Jeffery was the keynote speaker at the November 2004 MACSA Convention.
Our mission at Baptist Bible College, Graduate School, and Seminary is to provide excellence in biblical education for effectiveness in ministry leadership. The needs of the local church and those it partners with as it fulfills its mission on Christ’s behalf in a broken world demand the right kind of leaders. They must be Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered, servant leaders who stand ready to take their places according to God’s call. They are able to influence others toward God’s purposes.
What are the characteristics of these leaders?
Convictions
Effective ministry leaders are the result of theological formation. They have put deep roots down into the soil of the Word of God. Because of this, they know what they believe and why they believe it.
Commitment
Spiritual formation shapes leaders to be committed to the lordship of Christ over all of life. These leaders are committed to Christ’s cause in the Great Commission and the local church as the center of God’s program on Earth.
Character
Leaders must earn the trust and respect of those they influence. That comes from being conformed to Christ as the fruit of the Spirit is developed on the vine of character. Who we are inside determines what we do in ministry.
Competencies
Effective ministry leaders develop leadership, specific ministry, and personal competencies to be effective. The Book of Nehemiah gives an outstanding example of leadership competencies. Nehemiah was unwilling to accept the status quo of the broken-down wall. He inspired a shared vision, mobilized people to team up, encouraged the people, and set the example.
Capacities
No two servants of Christ are the same. As we follow Christ, He shapes us individually to become effective leaders. That comes from knowing yourself as you discover the way God has designed you for ministry with your gifts, personality, and experience. It also comes from growing through lifelong learning and mentoring.
As these five "C's" are integrated into every aspect of life and ministry, we will be effective in carrying out the Great Commission of Acts 1:8.
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