Torch, Summer 2002

when solicited, to give advice from a biblical perspective to parents and to pray for special needs. Christian kids can have an advocate in school and can feel free to take part at “See You at the Pole” prayer meetings or have the nerve to request a lunchtime prayer meeting. Christian teachers can give their views on creation while discussing evolution. They can also fill in the many gaps in history to explain the influence of Christian principles on the founding of our country. The freedom the Christian teacher has in a public classroom is amazing. Plus, the example of a godly life to students is often a breath of fresh air in contrast to the way the world lives. The Bible tells us to be “salt and light” to the world. What better opportunity is there than to be in classrooms all around our country, “salting and lighting?” There is no question that many Christian schoolteachers may think themselves out of place in the world of public education. There is pressure to conform to the world’s standard in many places. Some districts may require membership in the National Education Association or some other union that, on the national level, advocates positions on which and politicians with whom we have grave disagreement. Some may even feel outside the bubble of their own Christian upbringing and educational experiences. But, that is the point, isn’t it? We cannot hope to influence our culture, to say nothing of reviving our nation’s spirit and renewing our national distinctives, unless we are willing to step outside our comfort zone to do so. Someone is going to have to fill the many teaching positions that are from as far away as India and the Philippines will soon populate American classrooms. Why not fill these positions with Christian teachers? Why not gear up the many Christian colleges around our country to train young men and women to fill these future teaching positions? As a Christian teacher in a secular school district for many years, I know firsthand the tremendous impact dedicated Christians can have. It is more often than not a subtle influence, but one that is appreciated by the Christian parents and the non-Christian parents also. I have had many opportunities, Many of Georgia’s retired teachers were crossing the border to teach in neighboring states, so the state had to find a way to keep experienced teachers in Georgia classrooms. Neighboring states are having the same problems, so more states will consider allowing retired teachers to both receive a salary and collect their pensions. So, in the next few years there will be a great need for teachers in the U.S. But, this is not only an American issue; it is also a worldwide problem. Canada and Europe are having similar problems, and U.S. school districts are actually recruiting from these parts of the world. Graduates 6 TORCH / Summer 2002 Compassion in the Classroom