Education today is an ever-changing landscape. Students come to school with broader needs than ever before—academic, emotional and spiritual. Research reveals a sobering reality: kindergarten students today have a vocabulary of millions of words fewer than those from 20 years ago. This deficit underscores the growing challenge educators face. Yet, amidst these challenges, Rocky Mountain Conference teachers rise to the occasion with unwavering dedication.
Over the past three years, RMC teachers have completed more than 300 hours of professional development, equipping themselves with innovative teaching strategies to meet these growing needs. But education in Adventist schools is about far more than academic success. It is about pointing students to the foot of the cross and nurturing their character so they can lead with the courage of biblical heroes like Daniel.
This dual focus on academics and character development shines through in the words of our teachers. DeeDee Franklin, head teacher at Cortez Adventist School, shared, “Unlocking the Reading Code Professional Development has given me strategies for teaching struggling readers. It has been amazing to see the increase in their reading levels as they progress through the curriculum.”
Jessica Gleason from Mile High Academy echoed this sentiment, saying, “I appreciate that when we are given new tools to use in the classroom, we are also given the necessary training to implement them correctly. We have received many hours of training to support us. We use the Unlocking the Reading Code program and transition to a standards-based model in our school. It gives us teachers the confidence to try new things and grow professionally as well.”
Investing time and money
Professional development is a cornerstone of excellence in Adventist education, and the commitment of RMC’s leadership does not go unnoticed. Taryn Clark from Vista Ridge Academy expressed her gratitude: “RMC Leadership has dedicated time and money to developing all their teachers. As a professional learner, I am so thankful to be able to keep up my training and stay current on timely research methodology. I can see how my learning has impacted my student’s learning. I feel valued as an educator and empowered in the classroom.”
This commitment to growth reflects a biblical principle found in Prov. 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Our teachers are doing just that—training young minds and hearts for a lifetime of service to God and others.
RMC teachers not only embrace change but also model perseverance and faithfulness. Ellen G. White wrote, “Higher than the highest human thought can reach is God’s ideal for His children. Godliness—godlikeness—is the goal to be reached” (Education, p. 18). This vision drives our educators as they strive to develop not just scholars but disciples.
Adventist education is a collective effort. Teachers pour their time and energy into shaping the future; administrators allocate resources to ensure teachers have the tools they need; and community members and church members provide essential support.
Result: eternal impact
This partnership has a profound impact, not just on students’ test scores but on their eternal futures. Our schools foster environments where children feel safe, loved, and empowered to grow into leaders who live with integrity and purpose. It’s a mission worth celebrating and supporting.
So, how can you make a difference? Pray for your teachers and administrators, encourage them with kind words, and advocate for Adventist education in your community.
The success of Adventist education is a testament to the truth of Phil. 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With God’s guidance and the support of our community, teachers in the Rocky Mountain Conference are equipping a generation of students to lead with faith, courage and wisdom.
Let us celebrate and uplift the educators making an eternal impact—one student at a time.
