Meet the Teacher: Leslie Schmucker
What is your name? Leslie Schmucker
What do you teach? I direct and teach in the P139 Program.
How many years have you taught at Dayspring? The 2018-2019 school year is my sixth year at Dayspring, but I’ve been teaching in Special Education classrooms for 34 years.
What do you appreciate the most about the Principle Approach? When my own children started at Dayspring in 2000, we were relatively new believers. What I appreciated then, and still do, is that the Bible is pervasive throughout everything that is taught. God is the author of all truth, and the Principle Approach views teaching as a seeking out of truth. The Principle Approach also elevates Christ in everything.
What do you see in your students that is most encouraging? I love seeing students succeeding when they thought they couldn’t. A light comes on, and they gain a new enthusiasm for learning.
Why do you love teaching at Dayspring? First and foremost, because of the elevation and recognition of Christ in every area of the curriculum. Working alongside friends and believers is a blessing that I cherish. We are a family, and it’s a pleasure to come to work every day!
How do you teach a biblical worldview in your classroom? Biblical world view permeates everything we do. For example, I might pause in the middle of a complicated math problem and point out how awesome it is that God has created something so systematic and predictable (even if it is hard!). We talk about English being important because God chose to use language as his main method of communication with his people. I try to point my students to Christ and Scripture any chance I can get.
What do you think most students appreciate about your class? I think they appreciate the support and individualized attention they receive through the P139 Program. Many of my students would not be able to attend here if they weren’t receiving the support.
What is unique about you, your talents, or interests that you bring to the classroom? I am appreciative of the gifts God has given, that I take no credit for. He has given me an ability to teach multiple subjects to help with the unique needs of my students. He has given me a deep love for children, and an ability to create good rapport with them. He has wired me to be able to attend to many different needs at once, and to organize a classroom so that those needs are met. He has also wired me to teach, and I love to do it! All glory to God!
What have you seen in your students over the years that has touched your heart the most? At Dayspring, one of the most touching things I see is the interaction between the older and younger students. In our classroom, we see children helping each other, and accepting each other’s differences. Of course this isn’t always perfect, but it’s something we strive for and that many students rise to.
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.