The Kids Feeding Kids program has become an intricate part of Tri-unity's elementary program. The passion and vision of our teachers is creating opportunity for our students to do something 'bigger than themselves'.
The next level of development for this program is the introduction of micro-finance to our 5th and 6th grade students. Next semester, Kids Feeding Kids (KFK) will invest in the future of individual families in Los Alcarrizos, Dominican Republic.
Micro-finance is a global initiative to give a hand up to those who want to make a life changing difference for their families. With a small loan (which will go through 'Unto Ministries') community members will be able to begin the process of self-sufficiency through the development of a small business.
The loan will be paid back, but kept in the community and used for someone else who can also benefit from this hand up. While a family is experiencing the excitement of personal growth, our students will mirror the experience by starting their own small business to help fund the KFK program.
We have lots of work to do before we initiate the project. But, we have a GREAT BIG GOD and His will calls us to serve in this area.
This is an exciting year at Tri-unity Christian School. Celebrate the hearts of students. We are training up 'life changers' with Kingdom Purpose.
Preparing Kids for L.I.F.E - Faith with Fire!!
Deb Blanker
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Monday, October 18, 2010
Bully or Kid Stuff
Bullying is on the national radar these days. Personally, I think it is long overdue. My caution is, take care to understand the difference between bullying and kid play.
Bullying is an act of intended intimidation. Girls, boys, young adults all need to 'tool' their way through the development of friendships and self-awareness. Awkward responses and behaviors are often part of this growth period. Bullying however, is a malicious act geared at minimizing others in order to elevate one's self worth.
I see an increasing number of children and young people who are working hard to find their place. We can be a part of making the journey smoother with understanding hearts and encouraging words.
However, if you see a form of intimidation designed to hurt and conquer, take a stand on behalf of the victim. Watch for signs of distress, tell the key people in their lives, and find ways to give value.
One of the most dangerous forms of bullying takes place in cyberspace. Words have become lethal weapons. Please look over your child's shoulder. Protect them from others as well as themselves.
I hope you will link arms with me on this very important issue. The culprit isn't found in developmental growth, it is found in the heart. Lets be heart smart and help our students value themselves as Kingdom people not worldly warriors.
Preparing Kids for L.I.F.E. ... Influence with purpose
Deb Blanker
Bullying is an act of intended intimidation. Girls, boys, young adults all need to 'tool' their way through the development of friendships and self-awareness. Awkward responses and behaviors are often part of this growth period. Bullying however, is a malicious act geared at minimizing others in order to elevate one's self worth.
I see an increasing number of children and young people who are working hard to find their place. We can be a part of making the journey smoother with understanding hearts and encouraging words.
However, if you see a form of intimidation designed to hurt and conquer, take a stand on behalf of the victim. Watch for signs of distress, tell the key people in their lives, and find ways to give value.
One of the most dangerous forms of bullying takes place in cyberspace. Words have become lethal weapons. Please look over your child's shoulder. Protect them from others as well as themselves.
I hope you will link arms with me on this very important issue. The culprit isn't found in developmental growth, it is found in the heart. Lets be heart smart and help our students value themselves as Kingdom people not worldly warriors.
Preparing Kids for L.I.F.E. ... Influence with purpose
Deb Blanker
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Learning Isn't Neat
Learning can be unpredictable and full of challenges. It is a little like putting a model plane together. Some of us need to read every instruction while others will use the trial and error method and of course there are learners like me - very visual. Learners are NOT created equal ....
Learning can be messy; messy papers, neglected pieces, forgotten problems, tears, attitudes, and shut down. We need to help students embrace struggle as a necessary part of growth. Did you know it wasn't until Tom Edison's 2001st try he succeeded in inventing the light bulb? How about Michael Jordan's missed shot record of over 9000?
Some students will enter into the world of learning with a smile. But more of them will question the value of the work they are asked to do. Through collaboration (teacher, parent, student), we conquer the challenges. Preparing them for L.I.F.E. requires us to embrace and guide them through the sometimes bumpy terrain of learning.
Dedicated to valuing your child as an individual learner,
Deb Blanker
Learning can be messy; messy papers, neglected pieces, forgotten problems, tears, attitudes, and shut down. We need to help students embrace struggle as a necessary part of growth. Did you know it wasn't until Tom Edison's 2001st try he succeeded in inventing the light bulb? How about Michael Jordan's missed shot record of over 9000?
Some students will enter into the world of learning with a smile. But more of them will question the value of the work they are asked to do. Through collaboration (teacher, parent, student), we conquer the challenges. Preparing them for L.I.F.E. requires us to embrace and guide them through the sometimes bumpy terrain of learning.
Dedicated to valuing your child as an individual learner,
Deb Blanker
Monday, September 20, 2010
Christian Education - It Takes A Village
In a recent CRC Banner article, James Smith eloquently defends the decision for Christian education. He refers to Christian schools as laboratories to form children who see that our broken world is full of orphans and strangers we are called to love and welcome, while acknowledging its' high investment.
In truth, our pragmatic nature challenges us to consider all the financial values equated with tuition based education. Questions ranging from "Is there busing?" to "How do your ACT scores compare?" riddle the person answering the inquiry. However, Christian education is more than a dollar for dollar menu value - it is more than the 'safe' environment parents seek - it is more than a daily Bible class. Christian education is the fundamental experience of 1098 hours a year we spend living Christ for students and with students.
It takes a village to create an authentic Christian experience. It is the words we hear at carpool, games, field trips, lunch room, hallways ... It is the act of kindness extended to a student or encouragement to finish the race. It is our response when no one else is listening.
WE are the Body - we all share in the responsibility of Christian education.
Yes, there is a value proposition for dollars paid ...but in this broken world, WE have the opportunity to share in the development of the Kingdom Warriors who will face the greatest challenge.
It takes a village ... lets be on high alert for the things of 'the world' and encourage each other to be authentic believers. It is a 'lesson' that can be taught in and outside the classroom.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
In truth, our pragmatic nature challenges us to consider all the financial values equated with tuition based education. Questions ranging from "Is there busing?" to "How do your ACT scores compare?" riddle the person answering the inquiry. However, Christian education is more than a dollar for dollar menu value - it is more than the 'safe' environment parents seek - it is more than a daily Bible class. Christian education is the fundamental experience of 1098 hours a year we spend living Christ for students and with students.
It takes a village to create an authentic Christian experience. It is the words we hear at carpool, games, field trips, lunch room, hallways ... It is the act of kindness extended to a student or encouragement to finish the race. It is our response when no one else is listening.
WE are the Body - we all share in the responsibility of Christian education.
Yes, there is a value proposition for dollars paid ...but in this broken world, WE have the opportunity to share in the development of the Kingdom Warriors who will face the greatest challenge.
It takes a village ... lets be on high alert for the things of 'the world' and encourage each other to be authentic believers. It is a 'lesson' that can be taught in and outside the classroom.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
Thursday, June 10, 2010
See You Soon
Today we said good-bye ... see you in September.
It was filled with bitter sweet moments. There was rushing to the parking lot at the high school campus and hugs and tears at the elementary building. Teachers working hard to get final exams graded and teachers watching children march around to the music of "Sanctuary".
High school teams already practicing for summer camps and afternoon class parties at the lake. Parents texting each other in the carpool line and teachers extending words of encouragement as students headed off to meet them.
Then there were the final good-byes to friends who will not be returning to TCS in the fall. I consider myself blessed to interface with so many wonderful people during the school year. I will miss those who won't be returning. I hope they come back for a visit ...or just come back.
Blessings to you as you enjoy the freedom of summer. Come back - safe and refreshed!
Deb Blanker
It was filled with bitter sweet moments. There was rushing to the parking lot at the high school campus and hugs and tears at the elementary building. Teachers working hard to get final exams graded and teachers watching children march around to the music of "Sanctuary".
High school teams already practicing for summer camps and afternoon class parties at the lake. Parents texting each other in the carpool line and teachers extending words of encouragement as students headed off to meet them.
Then there were the final good-byes to friends who will not be returning to TCS in the fall. I consider myself blessed to interface with so many wonderful people during the school year. I will miss those who won't be returning. I hope they come back for a visit ...or just come back.
Blessings to you as you enjoy the freedom of summer. Come back - safe and refreshed!
Deb Blanker
Monday, May 31, 2010
Tonight's the Night!
A parent called last week to confirm their final decision on placement for their oldest child who will begin school this fall. We had met during the interview process, discussed the merits of the 'Young Fives' program and talked about the beginning of the education journey. I couldn't help but share how fast the time would go and before they knew it - she would be graduating.
Tonight, parents, grandparents and friends will sit in the auditorium and confirm the same sentiments I shared with these new parents. "It goes by so quickly."
Five years from now, when these graduates reflect on their time at Tri-unity Christian School, they will reminisce about lasting friendship, things they did in class, wins and losses in the gym fondly referred to as 'The Box', missions trips to the Dominican Republic or New Orleans, working the hot lunch program, classes they took, and things they wished they had done differently.
However, what will bubble up most frequently is the teacher(s) who cared enough to listen, encourage their dreams, and pray for their future. It will be a memory of someone who reflected the Love of Christ.
Deb Blanker
Tonight, parents, grandparents and friends will sit in the auditorium and confirm the same sentiments I shared with these new parents. "It goes by so quickly."
Five years from now, when these graduates reflect on their time at Tri-unity Christian School, they will reminisce about lasting friendship, things they did in class, wins and losses in the gym fondly referred to as 'The Box', missions trips to the Dominican Republic or New Orleans, working the hot lunch program, classes they took, and things they wished they had done differently.
However, what will bubble up most frequently is the teacher(s) who cared enough to listen, encourage their dreams, and pray for their future. It will be a memory of someone who reflected the Love of Christ.
Join us tonight and experience the essence of a Spirit-filled educational environment. You won't want to miss the evidence of things promised.
Deb Blanker
Monday, May 10, 2010
Give a Cheer
Did you get to see the Cinderella production? Did your child participate in the regional Math Olympics? How about the 5th/3rd Youth Run last week? Did you happen to see the recent Power Puff which raised over $350.00 for the Dominican Republic water filtration system? Oh and by the way, there is an annual chess tournament in the fifth grade classroom each year. Guess who isn't a better chess player than a fifth grader!
Each week a good news update goes out to our email subscribers. Included are the things we have to celebrate about our students at Tri-unity Christian School.
The cast of Cinderella performed to record attendance at our new building. I saw them opening night and thought they were phenomenal. I heard their last performance was stellar!
Did you know 70% of our student participants at Math Olympics placed, with three of them receiving medal honors?
Last Wednesday at the youth run, each runner ( the majority of the elementary students participated) wore a blue shirt celebrating their commitment to Christ, school and fitness. There are a lot of memories to share about how your children demonstrated Christ. In fact, we are starting to make our mark ... "Hey, there's that Tri-unity Team" was echoed.
Did I already mention we have a lot to celebrate ...
Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, " Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility". Thank you for allowing us to partner with you in preparing your kids for L.I.F.E..
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Each week a good news update goes out to our email subscribers. Included are the things we have to celebrate about our students at Tri-unity Christian School.
The cast of Cinderella performed to record attendance at our new building. I saw them opening night and thought they were phenomenal. I heard their last performance was stellar!
Did you know 70% of our student participants at Math Olympics placed, with three of them receiving medal honors?
Last Wednesday at the youth run, each runner ( the majority of the elementary students participated) wore a blue shirt celebrating their commitment to Christ, school and fitness. There are a lot of memories to share about how your children demonstrated Christ. In fact, we are starting to make our mark ... "Hey, there's that Tri-unity Team" was echoed.
Did I already mention we have a lot to celebrate ...
Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, " Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility". Thank you for allowing us to partner with you in preparing your kids for L.I.F.E..
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Monday, April 26, 2010
1098
An interesting thing happens when our kids go out the door and out of our sight .... somebody else gets the chance to influence them. I remember walking through a neighborhood school four years ago with my then one year old grand-daughter and her parents. I was doing the typical 'gramma' thing, lamenting on how fast time will go, getting in my two-cents worth of advise on her training and talking about Christian Education and its' value.
Hmmm, I was quickly reminded I was not the parent! I quickly reminded back ... 1098 hours a year she would sit under someone else's influence. "Know the influence she will sit under."
One of the most significant things in my children's lives at Tri-unity Christian was the influence they sat under; spirit filled, passionate, loving teachers. It is still a memory that resurrects at family gatherings.
Influence is a word I don't think we give much attention to once we place our children into "approved" environments. However, no matter how 'approved' the environment, the 'world' is waiting for our kids - just outside the influences.
I encourage you today to continue speaking life into and over your children in their comings and goings. The enemy seeks to destroy - but the real power is in the influence of Jesus Christ.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
Hmmm, I was quickly reminded I was not the parent! I quickly reminded back ... 1098 hours a year she would sit under someone else's influence. "Know the influence she will sit under."
One of the most significant things in my children's lives at Tri-unity Christian was the influence they sat under; spirit filled, passionate, loving teachers. It is still a memory that resurrects at family gatherings.
Influence is a word I don't think we give much attention to once we place our children into "approved" environments. However, no matter how 'approved' the environment, the 'world' is waiting for our kids - just outside the influences.
I encourage you today to continue speaking life into and over your children in their comings and goings. The enemy seeks to destroy - but the real power is in the influence of Jesus Christ.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
Monday, March 29, 2010
The Power of Action
" Be Thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12 KJV
The power to change lies in our willingness to take action. Webster defines action as the manner or method of performing.
For us, the power of action lies in our ability to respond to the real needs of the culture - knowing Jesus Christ. For the past four years, we have shared our commitment to being a Christian school that 'stands out' in our community through the development of our Roots to Wings spiritual life courses.
Last Wednesday, I attended the 8th grade girls' 'Purity Commitment Ceremony'; a capstone of our Roots to Wings program. This ceremony culminates a six week teaching on purity done by Mrs. Margi Vogel. For us, the 'real' need of our young women is to know their value in Christ.
Defining spiritual needs and creating a method in which to respond (Roots to Wings) is who we are committed to being for you and our community.
Resurrection Blessings!
Deb Blanker
The power to change lies in our willingness to take action. Webster defines action as the manner or method of performing.
For us, the power of action lies in our ability to respond to the real needs of the culture - knowing Jesus Christ. For the past four years, we have shared our commitment to being a Christian school that 'stands out' in our community through the development of our Roots to Wings spiritual life courses.
Last Wednesday, I attended the 8th grade girls' 'Purity Commitment Ceremony'; a capstone of our Roots to Wings program. This ceremony culminates a six week teaching on purity done by Mrs. Margi Vogel. For us, the 'real' need of our young women is to know their value in Christ.
Defining spiritual needs and creating a method in which to respond (Roots to Wings) is who we are committed to being for you and our community.
Resurrection Blessings!
Deb Blanker
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Ideas Worth Sharing
Have you ever seen the small note pad at the Residence Inn ,which says, 'Ideas Worth Saving' ? I presume it's provided so you can record ideas, which may help them better serve their customers .Or maybe they leave it to help you remember ideas, which may serve someone else.
I recently jotted down some ideas worth saving, during a parent conversation. The exchange of ideas is beneficial for all of us. Our lens are only as broad as the experiences we have filtered through them. So, lets take your experiences and meld them with our own and birth something new. Jot down your ideas worth sharing and email me ... I'd love to meld them with my own.
In April, Tri-unity Christian School will birth another beginning ... after thirty years of labor, we will become first time 'owners' of a building. In the fall of 2010 we will open our new preschool, Treasure Tree, at the new site. You will still see the same great teachers, but experience some new ideas! As funding permits, this site will be transformed into our new elementary.
We need everyone to be a part, as we write the next chapter in Tri-unity's story. For more information contact our office @ 532-TUCS or email me @debb@tucs.org.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
I recently jotted down some ideas worth saving, during a parent conversation. The exchange of ideas is beneficial for all of us. Our lens are only as broad as the experiences we have filtered through them. So, lets take your experiences and meld them with our own and birth something new. Jot down your ideas worth sharing and email me ... I'd love to meld them with my own.
In April, Tri-unity Christian School will birth another beginning ... after thirty years of labor, we will become first time 'owners' of a building. In the fall of 2010 we will open our new preschool, Treasure Tree, at the new site. You will still see the same great teachers, but experience some new ideas! As funding permits, this site will be transformed into our new elementary.
We need everyone to be a part, as we write the next chapter in Tri-unity's story. For more information contact our office @ 532-TUCS or email me @debb@tucs.org.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
Monday, March 8, 2010
21 Century Curriculum
Curriculum can be defined as a 'living organism'. It encompasses all experiences related to learning content information. Curriculum is more than the text - it is the teachers, the learners, the tools, the experiences and the final product. Curriculum engages with ideas. The well established model has not always reflected such boldness in service delivery. However, we recognize the outcomes can no longer look the same. Outcomes of instruction must incorporate the requirements our students will face in a changing marketplace.
The Partnership for 21st Century Skills ( an outcome based framework adopted by TCS ) has developed a vision for student success in a new global economy. The model supports Life and Career Skills, Learning and Innovation, as well as Information, Media and Technology skills.
Does change happen over night? Not usually. This shift will include full funding for classroom technology, professional development, and learning environments conducive to engaging creativity. Does change mean published text have no value? Absolutely not. It means there is more to instruction than the text.
Google: Smarted, Polyvision, 21st Century Skills ... check out the direction we're headed. Does change happen over night .... no, but we're powering up.
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
The Partnership for 21st Century Skills ( an outcome based framework adopted by TCS ) has developed a vision for student success in a new global economy. The model supports Life and Career Skills, Learning and Innovation, as well as Information, Media and Technology skills.
Does change happen over night? Not usually. This shift will include full funding for classroom technology, professional development, and learning environments conducive to engaging creativity. Does change mean published text have no value? Absolutely not. It means there is more to instruction than the text.
Google: Smarted, Polyvision, 21st Century Skills ... check out the direction we're headed. Does change happen over night .... no, but we're powering up.
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Monday, March 1, 2010
Kingdom Work
Mondays are like a ' new dawn', a fresh start to life, the beginning ... Today is the beginning of life without the smile and laughter of a daughter/sister. Today the Wright family begins walking out their new beginning.
As I reflect on the phone call I received early last Sunday morning alerting me to the accident which took the life of Julie Wright-Allen, I am reminded of the hands and feet of Christ which carried family and friends through the journey from acknowledgement to committal.
Yesterday, Bill called to say they are facing their new reality. In the midst of our conversation he was quick to say the Kingdom of God was reflected through acts too numerous to count. He heard, ".. it's okay to be mad at God'. His response was quintessential Bill ...' it's not even on my radar to be mad. I see the Love of God and He has spoken so clearly to me.'
Today is a new dawn for the Wright Family. The Kingdom of God has been at hand. God's love for us magnified by our love for each other. He called and we obeyed. Food, diapers, delivered gravel, snow-plowing, hotel rooms, funeral expenses, notes, calls, family, friends and so much more. Bill and Renee say thanks for being the hands and feet of Christ.
So, we move forward into a new day, a new week, steadfast in our Kingdom work; to care for the Body.
Romans 8: 38-39 (AMP) ... For I am persuaded beyond doubt that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, not things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Deb Blanker
As I reflect on the phone call I received early last Sunday morning alerting me to the accident which took the life of Julie Wright-Allen, I am reminded of the hands and feet of Christ which carried family and friends through the journey from acknowledgement to committal.
Yesterday, Bill called to say they are facing their new reality. In the midst of our conversation he was quick to say the Kingdom of God was reflected through acts too numerous to count. He heard, ".. it's okay to be mad at God'. His response was quintessential Bill ...' it's not even on my radar to be mad. I see the Love of God and He has spoken so clearly to me.'
Today is a new dawn for the Wright Family. The Kingdom of God has been at hand. God's love for us magnified by our love for each other. He called and we obeyed. Food, diapers, delivered gravel, snow-plowing, hotel rooms, funeral expenses, notes, calls, family, friends and so much more. Bill and Renee say thanks for being the hands and feet of Christ.
So, we move forward into a new day, a new week, steadfast in our Kingdom work; to care for the Body.
Romans 8: 38-39 (AMP) ... For I am persuaded beyond doubt that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, not things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Deb Blanker
Monday, February 8, 2010
Differentiated Instruction
Differentiated instruction is an educational concept. Colleges teach the basic tenants of differentiation by recognizing learners are different and instruction should take these differences into account. A very simplistic definition for what can be a challenging instructional concept.
I think differentiated instruction begins the day children join the world of siblings! As a parent, I confess how different my children were. They didn't seem to learn the same lesson or respond equally to consequences given. One student -oops I mean child, was so sensitive the simple elevation of my voice gained an immediate response. On the other hand, my risk taker loved to take to me to the edge and back. Understanding their differences helped me to instruct them. However, I expected them to think for themselves, ask questions of me and engage in the family process.
Isn't that what education is about ... teaching them to think for themselves, ask questions and be a part of the process?
Be a stake-holder in your child's education. Help them identify their strengths, guide them through their weaknesses and partner with their teacher(s) to help them reach their potential.
Differentiated instruction is more than an expanded lesson plan. It is understanding each child for their uniqueness and helping them become rooted in the plans and purposes Christ has established for them.
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
I think differentiated instruction begins the day children join the world of siblings! As a parent, I confess how different my children were. They didn't seem to learn the same lesson or respond equally to consequences given. One student -oops I mean child, was so sensitive the simple elevation of my voice gained an immediate response. On the other hand, my risk taker loved to take to me to the edge and back. Understanding their differences helped me to instruct them. However, I expected them to think for themselves, ask questions of me and engage in the family process.
Isn't that what education is about ... teaching them to think for themselves, ask questions and be a part of the process?
Be a stake-holder in your child's education. Help them identify their strengths, guide them through their weaknesses and partner with their teacher(s) to help them reach their potential.
Differentiated instruction is more than an expanded lesson plan. It is understanding each child for their uniqueness and helping them become rooted in the plans and purposes Christ has established for them.
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Monday, February 1, 2010
What's Different?
People often ask me to define what is different about TCS ... I always find myself searching for words which do my explanation justice. How can I convey what keeps me moving forward with the same passion I had when I started teaching here 20 years ago. It is our differentiator........
Tri-unity Christian school is NOT a 'me-too' christian school! Oh, we offer the same core classes every other school offers. We have students who 'forget' their homework and don't study. And there is the occasional discipline problem .....However, what speaks most strongly to my heart is the tangible over-arching presence of the Holy Spirit in the entity we call Tri-unity Christian School.
Last week I had the pleasure of 'informally' interviewing an alumni of TCS. She said (and I am paraphrasing), when she was at TCS she felt like she was in a bubble - albeit a good bubble. She went on to say her plans were to graduate, leave town asap with an ultimate goal to travel and teach in another country. However, the influence in the 'good bubble' has brought her back home with a desire to teach at her school and influence others for Christ.
The tangible presence of the Holy Spirit is evidenced everyday by a teacher praying a blessing over a class, a secretary who stops to lay hands on a small child or a parent who says' Lord pick me for such as task as this'... and then there is a fifth grade class who earned money for their Kids Feeding Kids program and donated $500.00 of it to help provide water in Haiti.
I am not sure these few words even begin to quantify the essence of daily life in 'the TCS bubble' of the Holy Spirit. What I do know unequivocally is the presence of the Holy Spirit and the opportunities we accept because of Him, differentiate us from all the rest.
He will teach us of His ways and we will walk in His paths .. Isaiah 2:k KJV
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Tri-unity Christian school is NOT a 'me-too' christian school! Oh, we offer the same core classes every other school offers. We have students who 'forget' their homework and don't study. And there is the occasional discipline problem .....However, what speaks most strongly to my heart is the tangible over-arching presence of the Holy Spirit in the entity we call Tri-unity Christian School.
Last week I had the pleasure of 'informally' interviewing an alumni of TCS. She said (and I am paraphrasing), when she was at TCS she felt like she was in a bubble - albeit a good bubble. She went on to say her plans were to graduate, leave town asap with an ultimate goal to travel and teach in another country. However, the influence in the 'good bubble' has brought her back home with a desire to teach at her school and influence others for Christ.
The tangible presence of the Holy Spirit is evidenced everyday by a teacher praying a blessing over a class, a secretary who stops to lay hands on a small child or a parent who says' Lord pick me for such as task as this'... and then there is a fifth grade class who earned money for their Kids Feeding Kids program and donated $500.00 of it to help provide water in Haiti.
I am not sure these few words even begin to quantify the essence of daily life in 'the TCS bubble' of the Holy Spirit. What I do know unequivocally is the presence of the Holy Spirit and the opportunities we accept because of Him, differentiate us from all the rest.
He will teach us of His ways and we will walk in His paths .. Isaiah 2:k KJV
Blessings,
Deb Blanker
Monday, January 25, 2010
21st Century Education
If you think about it, almost 10% of the 21st century is already by us and education has only recently dialed up its' effort to communicate the need for 21st century education skills.
What does that mean ... 21st century skills? Is there really a need to change the way we deliver education? If it was good enough for me ...
Friends, the world is changing. Technology alone commands we change or be left behind. How do we help learners become critical consumers and global communicators? How do we create a learning environment which mirrors the future - not the past? Challenging questions requiring disciplined thought - followed by intentional action.
This paradigm shift is akin to moving the Titanic on a dime. However, we are committed to making this change to provide the most relevant classroom experience to our students. If you are interested in the direction we are moving google The Partnership for 21st century skills-framework for 21st century learning and check out the path we're on.
The great thing about today is the endless opportunities we can create for tomorrow. Watch for future blogs which will unveil new course offerings that align with our vision to change the face of education at TCS.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
What does that mean ... 21st century skills? Is there really a need to change the way we deliver education? If it was good enough for me ...
Friends, the world is changing. Technology alone commands we change or be left behind. How do we help learners become critical consumers and global communicators? How do we create a learning environment which mirrors the future - not the past? Challenging questions requiring disciplined thought - followed by intentional action.
This paradigm shift is akin to moving the Titanic on a dime. However, we are committed to making this change to provide the most relevant classroom experience to our students. If you are interested in the direction we are moving google The Partnership for 21st century skills-framework for 21st century learning and check out the path we're on.
The great thing about today is the endless opportunities we can create for tomorrow. Watch for future blogs which will unveil new course offerings that align with our vision to change the face of education at TCS.
Blessings
Deb Blanker
Monday, January 18, 2010
The Things We (TCS) Do!
First off - what a great event we held on Saturday night with Tammy Trent and Anthony Evans. I hadn't heard Anthony Evans before Saturday - Wow ... I was blessed. His music and his words of encouragement spoke to my heart. It was a worship experience.
Thanks Norm and family for the countless hours you put into this concert. Also, I would like to thank our Foundation Board members for helping make this event so successful.
I was blessed this morning to hear our Kids Feeding Kids program contributed 66 cases of packaged food to the relief effort in Haiti. What this means is just under 9,000 meals were sent via a container provided by Rays of Hope ministry to assist in feeding the Haitian people. Great job elementary students and staff!
Proverbs 11:25 MSG says, The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped. I celebrate with you the opportunity to be a part of this ministry, which seeks to teach the heart of God to our students and demonstrate His heart to others.
Be a part of this blog by posting your comments about the concert or KFK program.
Blessings to you
Deb Blanker
Thanks Norm and family for the countless hours you put into this concert. Also, I would like to thank our Foundation Board members for helping make this event so successful.
I was blessed this morning to hear our Kids Feeding Kids program contributed 66 cases of packaged food to the relief effort in Haiti. What this means is just under 9,000 meals were sent via a container provided by Rays of Hope ministry to assist in feeding the Haitian people. Great job elementary students and staff!
Proverbs 11:25 MSG says, The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped. I celebrate with you the opportunity to be a part of this ministry, which seeks to teach the heart of God to our students and demonstrate His heart to others.
Be a part of this blog by posting your comments about the concert or KFK program.
Blessings to you
Deb Blanker
Monday, January 4, 2010
Stand Confident
January 11, 2010
"To know God is to be free of the incessant need to understand exactly what He is doing before you place your confidence in Him." Cathy Fernjack (Bill Wright's sister).
I have kept this quote on my desk as a reminder. We have a very busy year ahead. As reported at our special association meeting in November, we will be moving our preschool program over to our new building. TCS Treasure Tree Preschool will begin in September of 2010.
We are very excited to offer new options for our parents, including; a 5-day per week, all-day program. Follow the blog and share your needs as well as your child's.
Happy New Year Tri-unity Christian families!
January 4, 2010
Using a blog is a new experience for me and TCS. My intentions are to write about the school, update you on the building project and share both educational and philosophical thoughts with you ... I believe my age :) and experience give me permission to enjoy doing both.
However, today I want to share my holiday travel experience. First, don't drive to Florida the day after Christmas! Yikes ... the traffic is horrendous. Secondly, when flying the friendly (?) skies - thank our good Lord for people who do a job, which we believe will keep us safe ... TSA personnel.
Imagine flying New Year's Day following the recent terrorist threat - it could have been a not so friendly experience. Instead, we were treated with respect, kindness and professionalism. I was surprised! After exiting the security check point, I stopped and prayed for the people doing this job. It is becoming a more important component to our travel safety everyday.
The new year is a great time to reflect, regroup, refocus our thoughts. I welcome 2010 for all the reasons just noted. I hope you will journey with me on this blog and enjoy the opportunity to share and grow together.
January 11, 2010
"To know God is to be free of the incessant need to understand exactly what He is doing before you place your confidence in Him." Cathy Fernjack (Bill Wright's sister).
I have kept this quote on my desk as a reminder. We have a very busy year ahead. As reported at our special association meeting in November, we will be moving our preschool program over to our new building. TCS Treasure Tree Preschool will begin in September of 2010.
We are very excited to offer new options for our parents, including; a 5-day per week, all-day program. Follow the blog and share your needs as well as your child's.
Happy New Year Tri-unity Christian families!
January 4, 2010
Using a blog is a new experience for me and TCS. My intentions are to write about the school, update you on the building project and share both educational and philosophical thoughts with you ... I believe my age :) and experience give me permission to enjoy doing both.
However, today I want to share my holiday travel experience. First, don't drive to Florida the day after Christmas! Yikes ... the traffic is horrendous. Secondly, when flying the friendly (?) skies - thank our good Lord for people who do a job, which we believe will keep us safe ... TSA personnel.
Imagine flying New Year's Day following the recent terrorist threat - it could have been a not so friendly experience. Instead, we were treated with respect, kindness and professionalism. I was surprised! After exiting the security check point, I stopped and prayed for the people doing this job. It is becoming a more important component to our travel safety everyday.
The new year is a great time to reflect, regroup, refocus our thoughts. I welcome 2010 for all the reasons just noted. I hope you will journey with me on this blog and enjoy the opportunity to share and grow together.
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