3 REA SONS
Adventist Education Matters to Me W
AUTHOR
LaVonne Long
hen I was 7 years old, my parents began attending a Seventh-day Adventist Church company on a nearby reservation. As my parents began accepting Adventist teachings, our family life slowly began to change. In fourth grade the biggest change occurred — m y parents enrolled me in North Puget Adventist Junior Academy (now Skagit Adventist Academy). Growing up on a reservation with friends who are more like family and attending a small-town public school wasn’t a bad life. In fact, I have great childhood memories. The change to a small private school was difficult for me at first. But then, I was introduced to another world I didn’t know existed. I began playing clarinet for the school band. I started reading and enjoying Christian books. I began attending Pathfinders and learning about birds, knots and cake decorating. I went camping. I was introduced to plant-based food and so much more! My life was changing. But best of all, through regular family worship, church all day on Sabbath and my Christian education, I began to know Jesus. Looking back now, I am proud of my parents for the great sacrifice they made to send me to an Adventist school. We were a poor family living on one income on a small reservation. The investment of money and time wasn’t easy. But my parents believed an Adventist Christian education was the key to my success. Now, as a parent 66
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with two kids of my own, I wholeheartedly agree. Because of my experiences, I am sharing three reasons Adventist education matters. SPIRITUAL FOCUS
The most important reason I am choosing an Adventist education for my two kids is the focus placed on eternal things. Adventist teachers introduce kids to Jesus daily, helping grow their character
