This is Hope’s first year teaching at TCS, however, she is not new to the Timothy community. Last year, Hope student taught in Miss Rabideau’s first grade class while she was attending Fairleigh Dickinson University. After completing her student teaching, Hope graduated from FDU with a BA in Psychology, a concentration in Criminology and British Studies, and a Master of Arts in Teaching.
Hope currently teaches 6th and 7th Grade Social Studies and 6th Grade Reading. We are glad Hope has found her place in our TCS family. Let’s hear from her why she’s excited to be teaching full time at TCS this year!
What/Who inspired you to take up teaching?
Being a camp counselor and youth leader is what had the biggest impact on my decision to become a teacher. I realized the impact I could make on a child’s life and the impact that they make on mine. As a camp counselor I realized that the memories these children had of their summers were being impacted by me and I wanted to make sure they remembered they felt safe, loved, and encouraged to learn. As a youth leader to middle schoolers at my church, I realized how important it was to have a spiritual impact on a younger person. I enjoyed my conversations with the students probably more than they did and I just wanted more of that. So, having the opportunity to not only facilitate and encourage learning, but also cultivate a spiritual relationship on a daily basis is something I needed in my life.
Why did you choose to teach at TCS?
I student taught here at TCS, and the environment was truly incredible. The people I interacted with every day were so kind and I could feel the Holy Spirit’s presence here. I chose TCS because I wanted to incorporate my love of learning with my love of Christ. Especially teaching Social Studies, I get to show students how God has made history and how His hand is on all things. We get to look at the Bible not only as God’s Holy Word, but also as a historical source. I just think that is SO cool.
What do you love most about TCS?
What I love most about TCS is the community. I have only been here a short time, but I already feel like we are one big family. The entire school feels that way but especially my fellow middle school teachers who have been so welcoming and encouraging. Everyone who I have interacted with is so willing and excited to answer any questions I may have or even just to say hello. One of my favorite things to do is take a walk to building one and say hello to the office staff.
What is one word that best describes the school? Why?
One word I would use to describe the school is dynamic. There are so many great people here that create a wonderful atmosphere. Just like the Bible tells us, we are all part of one body and bring different skills and have different jobs within that body. I think TCS is a great example of God’s kingdom.
How are faith and learning integrated at TCS?
There are so many ways that faith and learning are integrated at TCS. Discussing God’s truth and praying daily are just two examples of consistent ways that faith is integrated. Something I enjoy is how the curriculum is faith integrated. When I am teaching Social Studies, I get to teach history from a Biblical Worldview. I don’t just teach about Ancient Israel and a famine that happened, I teach about Moses and how he led the Israelites out of Egypt because God told him to. I get to teach students how God is in every single step that they take, guiding them where to go and what to do next.
In what ways are you preparing students for life beyond TCS?
Not only are we preparing students for academic life, but also for a faithful life. Teaching students different skills to read the Bible and to have discussions with friends and family about God are both ways we are preparing them.
What would you tell families to encourage them to send their children to TCS?
I would tell families that the environment here is truly unlike any other. I would tell them that not only are their students being cared for by highly educated and qualified teachers, but also by people of faith who are constantly striving to be more like Jesus. I would tell them that their child will be prayed for and loved by the teachers and staff here.