A recent Gallup research report reveals a troubling statistic: only 25 percent of teachers strongly agreed with the statement, “In the last seven days, I have received recognition or praise for doing good work.”1 This finding raises significant concerns, particularly when we consider that consistent and meaningful recognition directly impacts key performance metrics such as productivity, engagement, retention and overall satisfaction among students and parents. While we all value acknowledgment, personal and authentic recognition truly makes a difference.
Reflecting on this research, I’ve been inspired to think about our dedicated teachers in Mid-America and the many qualities I appreciate about them. Here are a few highlights that capture their exceptional contributions:
- Spiritual Engagement: Our teachers strive to create profound encounters with Jesus for their students. Adventist educators are dedicated to ensuring that their students meet Jesus personally, integrating faith into every subject area. They seize opportunities in all lessons—not just Bible class—to help students understand that Jesus is a vital part of life, fostering a holistic spiritual education. They invite students to accept Jesus as their Savior.
- Tireless Commitment: The commitment of Adventist teachers is evident in their daily routines. Many arrive early and stay late, investing countless hours in planning, analyzing student data, communicating with parents, and collaborating with colleagues. They individualize lessons to meet the diverse needs of their students, cultivating a nurturing and supportive learning environment.
- Creative Teaching: Our teachers are a boundless source of creativity. They transform classrooms into vibrant spaces that inspire learning through innovative activities, whether it’s reading, drawing, problem-solving or creating dioramas. Walking into a classroom in Mid-America often makes me wish I could be a student again, as the atmosphere buzzes with enthusiasm and curiosity.
- Passion for Learning: Our teachers’ passion for learning is palpable. They invest significant time and energy into crafting lessons that ignite a love for learning. Their dedication to their students’ educational journeys is unwavering, and their enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring young minds is truly inspiring.
- Lifelong Learning Advocates: Our teachers embody the spirit of lifelong learning, modeling curiosity and a quest for knowledge to their students. Rather than merely dispensing facts, they guide students in discovering answers for themselves. It warms my heart to witness moments of silent reading where teachers model learning alongside their students, fostering a culture of inquiry.
- Opportunities to Share Faith: Teachers actively create opportunities for their students to express their faith through service. They organize community service activities that allow students to share Jesus in meaningful ways. From crafting colorful Bible verse sheets for nursing homes to raking neighbors’ leaves, assisting at community service centers, and collaborating on evangelistic meetings, our students learn the importance of serving others and sharing their faith joyfully.
- Preparation for the Future: Our educators are dedicated to preparing students not just for academic success but for lifelong learning and a hopeful outlook toward eternity. They instill a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging students to embrace knowledge as a lifelong pursuit.
Every day, our teachers in Mid-America demonstrate their profound love for Jesus, their students and the learning process. As we recognize their invaluable contributions, let’s commit to expressing our appreciation for them more often and strive to elevate that 25 percent statistic. Their hard work deserves to be celebrated!
1https://news.gallup.com/opinion/gallup/210041/why-appreciating-teachers-important-think.aspx
