September: The First Month of a Great New Sunday and Armenian School Year

Both teachers and students have mixed feelings about September. On the one hand it’s a great time for new beginnings; somehow no matter how old we get, the hope embodied in fresh notebooks and pencils and assignment pads never quite escapes us. On the other hand, September marks the end of summer and the more leisurely lifestyle of that season. Start this school year with a renewed commitment to some teaching basics found in this checklist, which you can refer to throughout the year as a reminder.

Be prepared. If you’ve taught this level or grade before, review your curriculum against the new school calendar you receive at your opening staff meeting. See what adaptations have to be made, what seasonal material needs assembling (use old Bulletins for an excellent resource), and what other resources will be required. Consider guest speakers and special projects. If you’re a new teacher, you will have, of course, read through your curriculum by now and planned a number of lessons. Then do just what is suggested above for seasoned teachers.

Be a part of the team. Attend staff meetings regularly. The staff meeting schedule for the entire year should be mapped out in September. Participate. Listen to the concerns of other teachers, whether or not they are your concerns. You may have a solution; or the discussion may provide you with ideas and insights. Consider yourself part of a team that gets stronger by working together.

Be prompt. Arrive 15 minutes prior to class to set up the room, make copies, or assemble supplies. Be there for the first student who walks in the door and start a conversation about his/her week.

Be part of your parish family. “Christians are like coals of a fire -- together, they glow; apart, they grow cold.” A wonderful saying and so true. If you and your students’ families are only part of the school and never appear anytime or anywhere else, something’s wrong! Think carefully about what’s keeping you from being more a part of the parish and if it’s an issue with other teachers and parents, explore the solution together.

Be committed to your own spiritual growth. You can’t demand a 15-year commitment to Christian education from students (who start as pre-schoolers) if you’re not dedicated to the same journey yourself. Read Scripture daily; five minutes of focused reading would be fine. There are many reading plans and helpful commentaries to guide you (contact us for specific recommendations). Pray often. Schedule regular quiet time to focus on your relationship with God. Live gratefully! Heal broken family relationships to the best of your ability. Take advantage of teacher retreats sponsored by your church or the Diocese.

Be a learner yourself. There is always more to learn about the teachings of our Lord and the traditions and history of our own faith community, the Armenian Church. Read, participate in seminars, workshops, and lectures. Attend Diocesan programs, such as the Mardigian Institute (a six-day seminar for Sunday School teachers) or the Teacher's College (a week-long program for Armenian School educators). Knowledge is not a prerequisite for teaching (you do learn as you teach) but a commitment to acquiring it over time is a must!