A Vision for Educators in the Advent Season

By Ria Uiterloo and Director Foundation Catholic Education, Lilia Aventurin Hodge.

“Extending a hand. In the north of Persia, a man sank into a swamp. Only his head remained above the mud. He shouted loudly for help. Soon, a crowd gathered at the scene of the accident, and someone had the courage to help the unfortunate man. ‘Give me your hand,’ he called out to him. ‘I will pull you out of the swamp.’ But the drowning man continued to cry for help and did nothing to allow the other person to pull him out. ‘Give me your hand,’ the helper encouraged him several times. The response was only a pitiful cry for help. Then another man intervened: ‘Can’t you see that he will never give you his hand? Give him your hand, and you can save him.’ If I see something good, I give a compliment. If I see something going wrong, I offer help.”

Quoted from: Erich and Leo Kaniok, “A Whiff of Wisdom: Life Stories for a Wise Life,” Haarlem: ZintenZ Publishing, 2011. – Nelson Mandela 

Elke Melody, director of PCBS Ichthus Apeldoorn, describes her new school with 33 nationalities and 240 global young citizens as a colorful environment where children meet, play together, collaborate, and learn to live together. She read the above story during a team meeting to announce that she would be the new director. Furthermore, she writes, ‘I have been inspired by the book ‘The Servant Leader’ by James A. Autrey. A servant leader works from a deep connection with the work. In my leadership, I want to show that with respect, honesty, and spirituality, you can inspire others to take responsibility. Leading, for me, is not watching from a distance and shouting something to someone else. I want to let others share in my strength. That sometimes means literally ‘extending a hand.’ The story also reflects for me the essence of the life of Jesus. Jesus as a servant leader. He is an inspiration to me by showing how, not through noise, violence, and bravado, but through silence and humility, one leads and helps others.”

“That words and actions still inspire world leaders is evident from the statement of Nelson Mandela, a leader of global stature. Not through violence, noise, or the clashing of weapons, but rather through silence, patience, humility, and inner strength.”

This morning, I got up with the contemplation of preparations for the upcoming Advent Season. In a time marked by numerous disturbances, wars, strained economies, poverty, diminishing contrasts among families, and economic classes, alongside the escalating inequities in education, I find myself considering what guidance might I offer Educators for this season. I found in my personal library the beautiful text above that inspire people in their work for Christian Education.

Other questions that arise: How can I inspire educators during this Advent season? How can I present to them a school plan that effectively translates a vision of equity, uniqueness, adherence to the great commandment, safety, justice, and the essential tools for fostering the desired environment? These elements are crucial for realizing their goals of establishing truly exceptional institutions.

As we approach the Advent season, a time traditionally associated with reflection, anticipation, and hope, educators everywhere find themselves standing at a unique crossroad. In a world marked by disturbances, wars, economic challenges, and social disparities, the role of educators becomes increasingly pivotal. I believe that during such times that the true essence of education, with its transformative power, can shine even brighter.

Embracing the Light Within 

In the spirit of this season, educators are urged to embark on an internal journey, whether through engaging in Lectio Divina (practice of scriptural reading, meditation, and prayer to discover the light within themselves. Drawing inspiration from leaders like St. Paul and Nelson Mandela, who epitomized leadership through silence, patience, humility, and inner strength, educators can find a reservoir of resilience to navigate the challenges that surround us. St. Paul often talked about rejoicing amidst trials difficulty, suffering and persecution. Romans 12:12; Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Crafting a Vision of Equity and Justice 

In a world marked by inequities and social injustices, educators can become architects of change within their institutions. By adopting a school plan that prioritizes equity, uniqueness, and safety, they lay the foundation for exceptional institutions that reflect the greatness of the commandment to love one another.

Equity as a Guiding Light 

Embedding equity into the fabric of education ensures that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. This Advent season, let us commit to creating an inclusive environment where the light of knowledge shines equally for all.

Cultivating Uniqueness 

Each student is a unique individual, a shining star waiting to be discovered. The education system should celebrate this individuality, fostering an environment where diverse talents and perspectives are not only recognized but also nurtured. As educators, let us commit to unveiling the brilliance within each student.

Safety and Justice: Pillars of Enlightenment 

Safety is the bedrock upon which effective education stands. It goes beyond physical safety to encompass emotional and psychological well-being. In the Advent season, let us pledge to create a haven where students feel secure, allowing them to explore, learn, and grow. Furthermore, justice in education ensures that every student receives fair treatment and opportunities. It is a call to action to rectify the imbalances that exist.

In order to realize this vision, Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten believes that educators must be equipped with tools that empower them to be catalysts for positive change. Professional development, collaborative initiatives, and an emphasis on well-being are essential components of these tools.

In this Advent season, let us be the bearers of light in the midst of darkness. Through our commitment to equity, uniqueness, safety, justice, and providing the necessary tools, we can illuminate the path toward exceptional institutions. As educators, we have the power to inspire, guide, and transform lives, fostering a future where every student’s light shines brightly.