PERSPECTIVES
Amidst Transformation, Adventist Education Offers
“Something Better”
M
erriam-Webster’s dictionary defines transformation as “an act, process, or instance of transforming or being transformed (to change in composition or structure; to change in character or condition).”
When I googled transformation I found a definition that seems even more appropriate in today’s world: “a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.” 2020 has certainly been a year of transformation. When I began thinking about this editorial, the focus was going to be on how our schools provide an environment and opportunities for the love of Christ to transform an individual’s character. That “when Christ abides in the heart,
the whole nature is transformed. Christ’s Spirit, His love, softens the heart, subdues the soul, and raises the thoughts and desires toward God and heaven” (Steps to Christ p. 73). Our schools exist to lead our young people to Christ. We have seen not only students, but parents and teachers be transformed through Adventist education. However, in March, my thoughts started to change focus. We saw a transformation unlike anything we have
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ever seen, and yet our education system did not lose focus on our main principles during this time. About the time of Spring Break, when the students, teachers, and parents were looking forward to a time of relaxation and rejuvenation in preparation for the busyness of the final weeks of school, COVID-19 became a stark reality in the Midwest. Governors closed schools in their states. So instead of resting, our school boards, teachers and conferences set
about to transform school. Decisions had to be made quickly: Do we just close? Do we move to online learning? What do we do for the students who do not have internet access? How do we teach online? All these questions and more had to be answered and plans had to be made.
Adapting to the needs The North American Division Office of Education stepped up and helped with onboarding schools, teachers and churches to use Zoom under their negotiated pricing structure. They created a website of resources that teachers could access for teaching during this pandemic. The website was updated regularly. Webinars were presented on general tips for teaching online, how to teach the Encounter Bible curriculum remotely, and mental health. We are grateful for their efforts. Conferences also had to assist teachers in preparing to teach online. Many held
