The role as both a teacher and a spiritual guide

What does the work of a teacher who has studied theology look like? Is it just teaching—or something more?

In their latest newsletter, the Gbeanquois family shares reflections on Christiana’s role as a teacher at an elementary school in Illinois, located in a troubled community.

“As someone who studied theology, Christiana sees herself not just as a teacher but also as a person who should shine the light of Christ in these children and her coworkers,” says Dixon, her husband.

He shares that Christiana is enjoying teaching so far and is excited that the school year is almost over. She can hardly believe she has come this far as a first-time teacher in the U.S. She also notes that teaching in this country “is quite different and more engaging as compared to Nigeria or Tanzania.”

As shared in a previous newsletter, the work has been a big challenge. Around 75% of the parents of her students are involved in drug use or some form of criminal activity.

Despite the difficulties, Christiana deeply appreciates her students. For Easter, for example, she plans to celebrate with her class by giving Easter gifts and preparing some traditional African treats.

And when the school year comes to a close, she’s planning a class party to celebrate her students’ achievements: making it to the top 1,000 in the state of Illinois for elementary schools, and being ranked number one in reading, with all seven students from her class recognized!

She also wants to include the parents in this celebration—to invite them and thank them for entrusting their children to her care.

If you would like to contribute to Christiana Easter and the end-of-year class party, please make a donation here.