How do we pursue growth as educators -- both for ourselves and our students?
I recently sat down with Lisa Campbell, our first-grade teacher at Naples Christian Academy. Her classroom is a source of encouragement to me -- every time I walk in, I see her teaching with great energy and enthusiasm. A love of Jesus permeates first grade; Lisa exudes joy, and it's contagious to her students. She shared with me about how she sees students grow and progress -- both academically and spiritually -- and how she pursues growth as an educator and Christ-follower.
Anna: What are some things you do to maintain a high level of energy and joy in your classroom?
Lisa: I spend a lot of time preparing outside of school, which is challenging for me. I'm so encouraged and motivated by the children's response to it, though. Their response is why I take so much time to prepare outside of school. I'm excited and full of joy because they are excited and full of joy. I can get excited about just about anything, especially if I see a response in them. And, I love that they get so excited about learning.
First graders are really good imitators. If I’m showing a heart of love, gratitude, and joy – my students want to emulate that.
My heart and prayer is that a posture of love and joy becomes the students' heart as well – that it goes beyond imitation of me to imitation of Christ. Their hearts drive me to spend time and energy preparing and instructing with enthusiasm.
Anna: Can you share a success story about a student's growth?
Lisa: A student came into first grade who was probably below a kindergarten reading level. He jumped up so fast over the course of the year -- when first grade ended, he was mid-second grade level. He got instruction on strategies throughout the year, but what did it was the opportunity to read to the preschoolers. That motivated him to want to be engaged with reading. Now, he’s a really proficient reader. Every child is so different, and my work as a teacher is about coming up with things that motivate individual kids. He grew leaps and bounds in reading because of that. Every week, he was energetically finding books to read to his preschool buddy and practicing. I love getting to know students' individual characteristics, strengths, and gifts to help them grow. And, I love that NCA supports this pursuit -- it's okay for me to be creative and to spend the extra time finding things that work for the students in front of me.
Anna: What area of growth are you pursuing as an educator this year?
Lisa: This year, I have been more aware that not every child learns the same way. I'm introducing new concepts in more varied ways this year, and I don't want to be sterile or stagnant as a teacher. I want to discover new ways to teach. As a mom of five, I know first-hand that every child is so different. I'm putting that knowledge and experience into practice even more deeply and intentionally this year. I love trying out new things and new ideas.
Anna: As teachers, we know our own spiritual growth is paramount to our students' formation. How are you growing spiritually this year?
Lisa: Discipling my students effectively demands that I ask myself: Where am I at with the Lord? What am I dealing with in my spiritual life? How am I growing? This year, my classroom theme (birds) has taken a new meaning for me spiritually. I've been singing the old song: "His Eye is On the Sparrow" based on Matthew 10:29-31 and Matthew 6:26.
I love the line: "I sing because I'm happy; I sing because I'm free. His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me."
When things are challenging – with everything being so brand new in this beautiful new building –that hymn has encouraged me and reminded me that I’m not alone. I’m thankful God has used the theme of this classroom to remind me of Himself, and that He is my source, my strength, and my ever-present help.
Students getting involved
