Meet the Teacher: Bonnie Lucas
What is your name? Bonnie Lucas
What do you teach? Lower school art for grades K-5
What is your educational background? I have a B.S. in Elementary Education. I have been teaching lower school art at Dayspring since 2006 Before that I homeschooled my 4 children for 12 years and taught many subjects and courses at a local homeschool co-op.
Why did you decide to become a teacher? At first my college major was chosen because I could not see myself doing any of the other majors. As I began the Elementary Ed classes and in-school experiences I found I had a gift for teaching and a natural rapport with elementary age children.
How many years have you taught at Dayspring? The 2021-2022 school year is my 15th year.
What do you appreciate the most about the Principle Approach? The principles are from God’s word – they are solid foundations for students and the teacher to learn and emulate. I see the most important aspect of the Principle Approach is that the Principles are from God’s word, not man’s thoughts. These pillars make a strong foundation for the producing of godly men and women; they will hold firm with much more surety than than the willy-nilly reasonings found in today’s culture.
What do you see in your students that is most encouraging? It is a pleasure to be with elementary students, especially in a pleasurable activity like art. I enjoy the eagerness displayed, the cooperation and sharing between children, and determination to do it “right”.
Why do you love teaching at Dayspring? The Lord gets to be an active part of my classroom as He is the first artist.
How do you teach a biblical worldview in your classroom? God is the first artist, and I begin the year stressing this, coming back to reinforce this fact through the year. In kindergarten and grade 2 we do artwork modeled after the Creation week, 1st grade has a Fruits of the Spirit unit, 4th and 5th grade do an overview of Christian art history and artists. Most lessons have a Bible verse to tie in, and I try to model a Christian worldview in my actions and words.
What do you think most students appreciate about your class? I hope they appreciate my love and care for them. Their art abilities are not the only reason why I am there, but rather to encourage, love, and show Jesus to each student.
What is unique about you, your talents, or interests that you bring to the classroom? I am a late blooming artist, and I can sympathize with the child who feels they can’t do it. My main goal in my classroom is to love, art is just the means by which I share the love of Jesus. I enjoy the various ages I work with and seeing the maturing of ability through the lower school years. I enjoy planning, and then implementing my lessons. I take great pleasure in completing my own art work, and then sharing techniques I have picked up to my students.
What have you seen in your students over the years that has touched your heart the most? There have been students blessed with servants’ hearts, who want to help classmates who are struggling, there have been students who have lagged behind in skill level who view their work as a masterpiece (and it is!), there has been perseverance, enthusiasm, satisfaction, and just plain fun! But the most valuable through the years has been the character maturing I have seen in individual students. It touches my heart when a student draws me a picture that they have taken time to do. It touches my heart when students see me and rush up to hug me. BUT the biggest is when a student asks, “How can I do this better, Mrs. Lucas?”
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.