Meet the Teacher: Matthew Henry
What is your name? Matt Henry
What do you teach? Worldviews, Wisdom Books, Old Testament Survey, Geometry, and Computer Science
What is your level of education? I have a bachelor of science degree in Biblical and educational studies from Liberty University.
How many years have you taught at Dayspring? The 2022-2023 school year is my 5th year at Dayspring as a teacher. I am a Dayspring Alum.
Why did you decide to become a teacher? My decision to become a teacher stems from my time spent at Liberty. I was looking to get involved with student leadership and decided to become a small group leader during my freshman year. I had no
experience teaching the Bible, but immediately fell in love with it!
What do you appreciate the most about the Principle Approach? The Principle Approach seems to me the only approach to education. Knowledge is either foundational or building upon previous knowledge. To address the later without properly examining and explaining the former is irresponsible and incomplete education. I love that any class, not just Bible class can be turned into a theological lesson. The principle approach lends itself nicely to seeing God in all classes. I appreciate the opportunity to educate well.
What do you see in your students that is most encouraging? Joy and service. Of course this is not present in every student, but I am most encourage by seeing joy and a love for life both inside and outside the classroom as well as seeing students who look for opportunities to serve and build one another up.
Why do you love teaching at Dayspring? I love the relationships I have formed both with the students and the rest of the staff. Other environments are not always conducive to such relationships.
How do you teach a biblical worldview in your classroom? I believe that this is accomplished through many different means, chief among which is a greater care for my students than the material that I teach them. When my desire is first and foremost the growth of the individual, The Holy Spirit directs toward opportunities to disciple.
What do you think most students appreciate about your class? I think that students know that I care for them as opposed to simply caring that they pass my class. I have been thanked for being relatable to my students. I hope to provide an atmosphere that students feel
comfortable, yet challenged.
What is unique about you, your talents, or interests that you bring to the classroom? I think that the fact that I went through DCA as a student (from kindergarten through twelfth grade) makes me a unique teacher. I am able to empathize with the students, and offer a different perspective than my colleagues. I also am a youth pastor and I think the relationships that I am able to have with my youth group teens enables me to have good relationships with my students.
What have you seen in your students over the years that has touched your heart the most? The process of maturation that I have seen in just the short time I’ve been here is incredible! Since I have been there for five years, I am starting to see the
difference in students from middle to high school. The greatest blessing is being a part of what God is doing on earth and I have the opportunity to be a part of that each and every day. This year, my first eighth grade homeroom class will be graduating. I am so proud to have had the privilege to see them grow, and the opportunity to aid in that growth is humbling!
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.