This blog post was generated from the following episode of the WISE and Otherwise Podcast with Dalena Wallace. Find more at: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wiseandotherwise
In the heart of Washington State, a passionate educator discovered her true calling in the most unexpected way. Jesica Glover never envisioned herself as a teacher, yet divine guidance and persistent affirmations from those around her led her down a path that would transform her life and the lives of countless others. As she navigated the challenges and rewards of teaching, Jesica's journey evolved into a mission far greater than herself. This mission birthed Kingdom Educators, an organization dedicated to supporting educators in public, private, and homeschool settings by helping them uncover and fulfill their God-given purpose. Through Kingdom Educators, Jesica aims to empower teachers and students alike, inspiring them to embrace their identities and live out their callings with faith and determination.
The Call to Teach
Jesica's path to becoming an educator wasn't straightforward. Originally from Washington State, she spent 11 years teaching middle school, a role she initially resisted. Yet, through divine guidance and affirmation from others, she embraced her calling. Teaching became more than a job; it became a mission to impact children's lives positively. Jesica's journey highlights how the right support and encouragement can help one find their true calling in life.
Challenges in the Classroom
Teaching can be incredibly challenging. Jesica's experience as a reading specialist revealed the deep struggles students face, from anger to lack of motivation. These challenges drove her to seek ways to make a lasting difference, leading her to pursue a master's degree focusing on student motivation and identity. She discovered that a child's sense of identity is often at the heart of their motivation issues, leading her to develop strategies to help students understand who they are and what they are meant to achieve.
Speaking Words of Life
Jesica wrote the book Speaking Words of Life in Your Classroom to help teachers inspire students by affirming their identities and calling. She emphasizes the importance of creating a classroom culture where students feel safe, valued, and purposeful. Daily affirmations remind students of their potential and the great things they are capable of achieving. By incorporating affirmations like, "I’m a change agent in my family, school, and neighborhood. I was born to do great things," Jesica empowers students to see themselves as individuals with unique talents and a significant purpose.
A Heart for Family and Adoption
Jesica's personal journey also includes becoming an instant stepmother to six children, including three Haitian children and a Chinese daughter. Her story highlights the profound impact of family and the importance of helping children understand their identity and purpose. Her experiences have deepened her passion for supporting educators and students, showing how the challenges of family life can enhance one’s understanding of identity and calling.
Supporting Teachers on Their Journey
Kingdom Educators offers various resources to support teachers, including courses like From Burnout to Burning Bright and the book Grab Your Hope Goggles. These resources remind educators of their calling and provide practical strategies to stay motivated and effective in their roles. Jesica’s programs are designed to help teachers reconnect with their purpose and find new inspiration, ensuring they remain passionate and effective in their teaching.
Building Community and Encouragement
Feeling isolated is a common challenge for teachers. Jesica helps combat this by organizing events like the teacher prayer breakfast in Wichita, Topeka, and Manhattan, Kansas. These gatherings offer fellowship, encouragement, and a reminder that teachers are not alone in their mission. These events create a supportive community where educators can share their experiences, find strength, and be reminded of their impact.
Innovating Within the Classroom
Innovation isn't just about creating new schools; it's about refreshing and revitalizing existing classrooms. Jesica helps educators find new ways to engage and inspire their students, focusing on their mission and calling. She encourages teachers to explore creative approaches and to stay committed to their vision, even when faced with challenges. By fostering an environment of innovation, Jesica ensures that teachers remain energized and inspired in their educational journey.
Expanding the Reach
While Kingdom Educators primarily serves Christian educators, Jesica's heart is open to working with all teachers, including those in public schools. Her focus remains on helping teachers understand their purpose and stay committed to their calling, regardless of the challenges they face. Jesica is dedicated to training and supporting teachers so they can offer the best to their students, helping them to stay focused on their mission and to continue making a positive impact in their classrooms.
Embracing the Power of Community
The importance of community and support cannot be overstated. Jesica plans to create small groups that meet online once a month, offering national-level support for educators. She emphasizes the power of shared experiences and mutual encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among educators. Even if educators are not working in the same environment or facing the same challenges, they can learn from each other’s experiences and support one another in their missions.
Conclusion
Kingdom Educators is dedicated to empowering teachers and students through faith. By affirming their identity and calling, we can make a lasting impact in the world of education. Visit the Kingdom Educators Website to learn more about their resources and how you can connect with them.
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