The Christian EducatorA publication of North Valley Baptist Schools

The Teacher and School Spirit

By Josh Nolan

I remember entering school spirit week for the first time in my life as a young, nervous first grader.  Our small school of K-5 – 12^th graders all met in the church auditorium.  I had only heard about some of the events during this week, but now I was able to experience it live!  The principal held a large cardboard box and explained how the contents inside were edible but wrapped in aluminum foil.  Before I knew it I was called up along with several other students to the front of the auditorium.  My heart started pounding.  I wanted to earn points for my class, but I did not want to eat anything disgusting from the “mystery box.”  I placed my hand in the box, feeling for the smallest item, and pulled something out.  We were told to wait and see what it was.  Finally, the whistle blew, and I peeled open the foil.  The warm scent hit my nostrils immediately.  With my index finger I felt the green slimy texture.  The little bumps covering this ugly vegetable reminded me of warts on a witch from some Disney cartoon.  Tiny tears began showering my pickle before I put it down and ran out of the room.  This was my first memory of school spirit week.  Needless to say, my class did not win the school spirit award.  Is school spirit just for students?  Does it matter if teachers express school spirit?  What is the teacher’s role?

Run with the Program. Staff meetings are the time to discuss and debate with the faculty.  Inside the classroom, however, is not the time.  Students should hear teachers support every decision, rule, and authority within the school and church.  Don’t let a critical, disloyal spirit hurt your school’s spirit.

Remember, you’re being watched.Students often mirror a teacher’s demeanor.  Fundraisers, chapel services, and Mondays, a sigh or a frown on the teacher’s part in these areas will spread like wild fire.

Relate to your students. Events that encourage school spirit should be emphasized. (Sports games, spirit days, banquets, etc....) Try to be present and active at these events. 

Realize the importance of school spirit. One goal of a Christian educator should be to influence students to want a life of serving God. A poor spirit from a teacher informs students that there is nothing special or rewarding about serving the Lord. Promoting school spirit brings a family atmosphere to our schools.  It gives students a place where they are proud to belong. School spirit, positive or negative, will be transferred over to the way students really view the ministry and the things of God.

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