Meet the Teacher: Alison Schmucker
Please introduce yourself and say what your role is at Dayspring. My Name is Alison Schmucker and I teach fifth grade English, Reading, Orthography, and Literature.
Summarize your teaching experience, past and present, including how long you have taught at Dayspring. I taught fifth grade at Dayspring for three years before I left to care for my own children. I am so excited to be back teaching in the same class for the 2021-2022 school year where my teaching career started. This will be my fourth year as a DCA teacher.
State your level of education, highlight any degrees, special awards, memberships, or specific
focus you have, and any key accomplishments, honors, or titles. I have a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I also have a certification in teaching K-12 English as a Second Language.
Why did you decide to become a teacher? I decided to become a teacher because I enjoy languages and working with children. Becoming a teacher was a unique way to combine both of those passions. My original goal was to teach students who did not have English as their primary language.
What do you appreciate most about the Principle Approach? I most appreciate that the Principle Approach actively promotes the Bible as the core of all subjects. It is so important for believers to see God’s principles in every aspect of life.
What do you see in your students that is most encouraging? I am most encouraged when students find joy in learning.
How do you teach a biblical worldview in your classroom? I teach a biblical worldview by pointing the students back to how we can see God’s character and principles in each subject. We also use Scripture to interpret and analyze particulars in books like characters and events.
What is unique about you, your talents, or the interests that you bring to the classroom? I am a DCA graduate, which has given me a deep understanding of the Principle Approach and the culture at the school. I have been in the very spot and learned the same things that I am teaching my students. I am able to glean from my past experience to improve my teaching.
What do you think students most appreciate about you and your class(es)? I think that students appreciate my friendly demeanor. I also give students a lot of autonomy in their learning by allowing them to choose what kinds of activities they would like to do to reinforce concepts.
What have you seen in your students over the years that have touched your heart the most? I have been so humbled by the care that students have for one another. They are quick to see when other students are struggling and step in to help.
At Dayspring Christian Academy, we are committed to raising up the next generation of Christian leaders who acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ in every area of life, demonstrate a biblical worldview, become citizens of excellence in Christian character and scholarship, and aid in the restoration of America’s biblical foundation. If you would like to learn more about Dayspring Christian Academy, please contact Karol Hasting at 717-285-2000 or schedule a private tour using the button below.