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How do you build a bridge?  One piece of steel at a time...
God is truly building a bridge between us, His church, and our community through our Shine partnership with A. Montoya. 

I'd like to present a unique opportunity to add some steel to our bridge by bringing encouragement to our teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week.
What's it like to be a teacher at an APS Title 1 school?

You've got a classroom of around 30 kids...which makes for quite a bit of adventure, quite a bit of laughter, and quite a bit of chaos each day! You've got a few kids that are quite respectful and attentive, as well as a few who have never been in a classroom setting and are still learning how to exist in that environment.  You've got the daily challenge of not only educating your class, but also of finding out whether they're safe at home, have access to breakfast and lunch, and have proper clothing for each day's weather.  Though you take interest in each child's family and greatly value parental involvement, you don't always get much response from them.  The majority of your students' parents will probably not attend parent-teacher conferences.

As A. Montoya's Shine partner, we have a great opportunity to communicate to our teachers that they are seen, heard, and loved.  They need to know that they're not alone in their desire to bring transformation to their community, and that their tireless efforts are not unnoticed. 

To acknowledge one's struggle, to enter into it, and to bring relief...well that sounds a lot like Jesus, doesn't it?

Would you please join us in an effort to encourage our teachers at A. Montoya during the week of May 1st - 5th?  Please stop by the school anytime between 7:45a.m. and 2:15p.m. any day that week to drop off goodies, flowers, cards...anything that you think would bring some joy.

Each and every time we walk through the doors of the school, we add to the bridge God is building between us, His church, and the community! I can't think of a more wonderful construction project!

Click here to learn more about the Shine Initiative.