When our girls were in high school, my husband would take them out for ice-cream to celebrate the first week of school. For many students, the first week of school is a wrap! Thank you educators for showing up! The work now begins as educators, students and parents embark on a journey of discovery. My first week of school was spent visiting with some dedicated educators and students both in the context of teaching and learning.  One major highlight of my week was the visit to Ms. Olivares class at the North Texas Job Corps. As many dedicated educators do, Ms. Olivares spent her summer planning for her students. In executing one of her lessons to meet the curriculum standards, she invited me to speak to her students. Ms. Olivares is one of the transformative educators, I have been blessed to serve through some of my trainings in the past.
 
A fun time of not only providing hope to the students, but a time of learning from students alike. You see, Ms. Olivares class comprises of high school students many of which English is not their first language, and who probably would not be able to reach their maximum potential in the traditional school model. In fact, some of her students are refugees seeking to re-build their lives here in the U.S.  Refugees are legal citizens who have been forced to flee their home countries because of persecution, war, or violence (UNHCR). In her class are students from eleven countries; USA, Eritrea, Congo, Mexico, Nigeria, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan, Myanmar, Burundi, and Iraq.
 
The North Texas Job Corps is part of the Job Corps program- a U.S. Department of Labor program that provides the nation’s biggest career technical training and education program for young people ages 16-24.  Enrolled students can earn their high school diploma, a high school equivalency credential, or college credits while receiving career technical training in almost 100 career areas. Also, students receive free housing, meals, basic health care, and living allowance. The Job Corps program has 125 centers nationally, four of which are located in Texas.
 
I saw in Ms. Olivares and her class that “magic touch” educators possess. Though there were different cultures represented in the class, there was a shared focus of learning and aspiration. The curiosity of the students after engaging in the 3 P’s (Purpose, Passion and Pursuit) talk, revealed their understanding and determination. One student wanted to know how to stay motivated while pursuing his goals. Another student was interested in knowing how to stay connected since all his friends are in his home country. One student has the aspiration of becoming the President of the United States. Another student has the aspiration of going back to his home country to help his government and people. The most touching one for me, was the question asked by a student from Tanzania. He wanted to know one thing I could share with them that would ensure their purpose and ultimate success. What a depth of thought and mind! All students no matter the grade level, need these guideposts in their journey.
 
The students reminded me of the uniqueness and beauty of every human being. They reminded me of the capacity of resiliency only humans have. They reminded me the gift we all are to make a difference in our world. They reminded me of the high cost of growth everyone can pay to be a perpetual sparkle. They reminded me of you and I, that our lives are gifts not to be missed or hoarded. Rather, unwrapped and lived intentionally so that the fragrance we carry can leave an eternal effect on everyone we encounter.
 
If you know of any young person ages 16-24 that could benefit from this model of education, please share this post with him or her. To learn more about the North Texas Job Corps or take a tour of the beautiful campus contact Ms. Olivares at 972-542-2623. Love & Blessings!!
 
     “Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him to help you do it, and He will.”  Psalm 37: 5 (TLB)
 

Recently met with a dear friend whose children grew up with our daughters.  Her husband was transferred to Utah five years ago, hence we had not seen each other in five years . We had a wonderful time reminiscing on our days as taxi moms, attending school activities, and now as empty nesters :). Through the grace of God, both of our adult children are amazing humans making their marks and a difference in the world. I am forever grateful to be blessed with such beautiful wise young women who are relentless in their pursuit of God and His purposes for their lives. My dear friend is embarking on a new chapter in her life leading a new initiative within Utah State Office of Education. As I think of her and fellow educators here in Texas and across the nation who are preparing for a new school year, I could not but think on one of the most impactful ways to start the new school year. It’s called-Prayer! Yes, whether you believe in prayer or not, its effects cannot be underestimated.
 
It’s a blessing to know people dedicated to praying for our schools, students, educators and parents. Prayer is powerful. It invites the presence of God to our midst, be that a classroom or school. Fellow educator, take some time and meditate on the words of this educator prayer as you embark on a new school year. No matter your role this upcoming school year, it is my heart desire that you will experience the sustaining power that comes from the Master Designer and Creator.
 
Dear God,
 
Thank you for all our educators and for the upcoming school year. As many educators prepare for the 2016-2017 school year, lavish each one with Your wisdom, grace and strength.
 
Prepare their hearts to welcome and love students and may your spirit hover upon the hearts of all students to cooperate with their teachers and peers.
 
Bless all educators with daily renewed grace to help students no matter what it takes for them to succeed. Give them the skills and tools necessary to enable their students to reach their potential this new school year.
 
Wrap your arms of love around each educator and remind him/her of your watchfulness in times of challenges. In times of uncertainty with any student, remind educators of the possibilities that are available through Your power as Creator and Master Designer.
 
Cover their families and may your goodness follow them as they make a difference in the lives of our future leaders. Amen.
 

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us."  I John 5:14 NIV