Pointing Kids to Jesus
Can Educators Cultivate Faith with FLR?
It was nearly midnight in a Taco Bell parking lot when a woman walked out to deliver food to a group of eighth-grade boys parked outside. Curious about why they were out so late, she asked what they were doing. The boys explained they had just finished a week leading Vacation Bible School. After hearing their story, she paused—then asked them to do something unexpected—“Tell me about Jesus.”
“And I sat there as a group of six eighth-grade boys just shared the gospel with her.”
—Brandon Trondle, Middle School Dean of Students
That quiet exchange in the parking lot revealed something deeper. These boys weren’t just reflecting on their week—they were living out their faith in real time. Their confidence came from months of preparation, discipleship, and encouragement from teachers who had shown them what it means to follow Jesus.
What happened that night reflects the heartbeat of a small Christian school in Detroit, where educators are forming more than just minds—they’re shaping spiritual lives.
Every day, teachers and school staff use worship, encouragement, and mentorship to inspire faith and confidence.
A Foundation of Faith and Safety
Teachers, educators and support staff intentionally create an environment where students feel secure—emotionally, spiritually, and personally.
“Being here as a student, it makes them feel like they’re safe. They’re loved. And…we can pray for them. That makes them have strength in knowing who their Father is, building their beliefs, and knowing they’re following His path.”
—Angie Kammer, Teacher’s Aide
It’s this daily affirmation—paired with prayer, connection, and presence—that helps students develop real confidence in their faith and in themselves.
Worship in the Everyday
So much more than background noise, worship music is woven into the rhythm of the school day.
“Music has a huge impact on students. We play worship music during brain breaks, start their day with it in class, and even during study halls, they’re using Family Life Radio.”
—Beth Denhart, School Administrator
Beth has seen the impact firsthand—not just on her students, but on her own daughter. “Even my daughter, who’s 13—it’s always Family Life Radio. It entertains her generation. It brings her in.”
The impact is lasting. “Christian music feeds your heart. Whatever you take in—that’s feeding your heart.”
—Brandon Trondle
Students often bring the music home.
And the influence goes beyond the walls of the school.
“Our students go home to families who aren’t believers. They say, ‘Mom, I listened to this at school—can I listen to it here?’ And then their whole family starts listening.”
—Brandon Trondle
With each song, Family Life Radio helps students bring the gospel into their homes.
A School That Serves
Students are active participants in serving others. It’s part of the culture.
“Every one of them said they wanted to be more involved in the community… So this year, our focus has been doing at least one community service project a month.”
—Angie Kammer
“They pulled weeds taller than them… then they cooked and served lunch to 150 inner-city kids from Metro Detroit.”
—Angie Kammer
From local outreach to mission trips, students are equipped to lead and love through service.
Everyday Encouragement
At this school, appreciation goes both ways. Teachers speak words of encouragement, and students return that care.
“We are huggy people around here… they missed and heard ‘I love you.’ And they always want a hug. And they get one right back.”
—Beth Denhart
“May is Staff Appreciation Month, and the kids are involved in different ways to give back to the teachers.”
—Beth Denhart
There’s a strong sense of mutual care between teachers and students. Gratitude is expressed often—through words, notes, and gestures of affection.
A Shared Message
One message is shared with every student who walks through the doors.
“We teach any student that comes through the door: God loves you. God has a plan for your life. Our logo this year was ‘Brighter Together.’ As a group and unified, we are brighter together—and we need to let our light shine for Jesus.”
—Beth Denhart
From the songs played in the classroom, to the projects students lead, to the way teachers care for each child. They believe that together—student and teacher, classroom and community—they reflect the light of Christ more fully.
Love Your Teacher
Stories like this are happening every day because teachers choose to serve with compassion, boldness, and faith. You can be part of encouraging and protecting educators like these through the LOVE YOUR TEACHER campaign.
- Pray for your local teachers.
- Protect their right to live and lead in faith.
- Uplift them with your words, support, and gratitude.