For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10, ESV

“Thank goodness, there aren’t any teachers here!” (Translation: “There aren’t any real teachers here.”) 

This statement came from a parent who knew me because I taught all three of his children. I was there, at this PTO meeting as the only faculty representative, while the participants heatedly discussed a controversial matter. As a “special” teacher, this was only one of many times that I felt like a second-class member of the teaching staff. Not only did many parents think that way about the art, physical education, and music teachers, but the children often did as well. Because our subject areas had less importance to many, our roles held less respect as well. Personally, beyond the lack of esteem, I had developed a jealousy for the classroom teacher who had only 20-25 students a year to influence. I had 400. I often thought, How could I impact such a large number of students in a way that would make a difference?

The Lord began showing me what He had for me to do in my unique position…I had a viewpoint that most people didn’t have. I knew everyone in the school because I worked with all of them. I had the chance to work with the principal and other “specials” planning school-wide events and helping to create a learning, caring community. When Thanksgiving and Christmas came around, I had the distinct privilege to teach every child in the school the historical background of these holidays and to choose songs for school-wide programs that were honoring to the Lord.

Beyond my own school, I had connections with the other music teachers in town and had the privilege of changing policies system-wide. One such change occurred because I chose some sacred texts as part of well-balanced choral concerts, and the other music teachers in town were able to write a policy that allowed them to do the same.

As Christians, we can remind ourselves that God has us in this position, with the gifts He has given, for His purposes. Educators, appreciate the place He has placed you to influence your school in a way no one else can.

Thank you, Lord, for placing me in the perfect place, which is part of Your perfect plan. I am going to choose to shine for You right here, this very day. Amen.

Copyright Shirley Wilson.  

Shirley is a retired Christian Educators member and former board member of Christian Educators.