Commentaries

Week: January 21 - January 24, 2025

01/20/25 - Bible Reading

Students can read the Bible in their public schools. They can bring their Bibles to school. They can read them during free-reading time. But, more than that, teachers can have students read the Bible for something that is relevant to the curriculum. For instance, if studying Roman history and the birth of Christianity, students can read the teachings of Jesus. They can also read parables like the Story of the Good Samaritan to understand what the term – that we still use today – means.

When learning about holidays, whether Christian or Jewish, they can read of their origins in the Bible. When learning about current events in the Middle East, they can read about Moses. It’s perfectly legal and academically appropriate.

It can happen, and you can be the gateway to better education for students at your school. For help, visit our HOME PAGE.

01/21/25 - Faith is Not Just an Opinion

Too often in today’s cultural debates people confuse someone’s faith with their opinion. So, when it comes to a moral position based on religious faith the attitude is, “Well, just change your opinion.” But it doesn’t work that way.

An opinion is a viewpoint based on beliefs. I can’t change my opinion if it is based on my belief about what God says is right and wrong. It’s not my opinion, it’s God’s. My beliefs and actions have eternal consequences. They are not whims. Worshiping God is not a hobby. Going to church is not a social club. We are told by the pop culture that we need to get on the so-called “right side of history.” Well, as a Christian I’m most concerned about being on the right side of eternity.

When it comes to your children’s faith as they attend public schools, you must guide them to stand strong. For help, visit our HOME PAGE.

01/22/25 - Teachers Can Pray at School

Did you know that public school teachers can pray at school? The U.S. Department of Education recently published new guidance on religious freedom in public schools. When it comes to prayer and teachers, the guidance says this:

“Teachers may take part in religious activities such as prayer even during their workday at a time when it is permissible to engage in other private conduct such as making a personal telephone call. Before school or during lunch, for example, teachers may meet with other teachers for prayer or Bible study to the same extent that they may engage in other conversation or nonreligious activities.”

Do you know public school teachers? How about blessing them with this information? You can be a gateway to better education for those in your schools. For details on the new guidance, visit GoGateways.org/freetospeak.

01/23/25 - Help Me Understand

If you are concerned about something in your child’s classroom, there are three steps you can take to raise your concern and see a change.

When you have a concern, meet with the teacher and start the conversation by using the phrase “Help me understand...” Don’t assume you know the teachers’ intent. Your question should be a sincere desire to understand the point of the assignment or activity.

Next, affirm, in general, what the teacher is trying to do. Finding “common ground” is an important part of the discussion.

Finally, transition to your concern by saying, “But have you considered...?” Don’t assume the teacher will oppose you. In fact, it is better to assume the teacher will agree with you once you explain your concern.

For more details on this “Help me understand” approach to a classroom concern, click HERE.

01/24/25 - Talking to a Principal

School principals hear a lot of complaints from parents. If you need to talk to your child’s principal about a concern, there is an approach that just may break through all the chatter.

Approach the principal as a friend and supporter of the school. Begin the conversation by saying, “I thought I should alert you to a potentially embarrassing problem.” You’re not there to cause a problem, but to help the school avoid a problem.

Explain what you discovered when you talked to the teacher, which you’ll need to do first. And then ask the principal’s advice for how to resolve the problem.

You may also want to bring a friend or your spouse along. You will feel less intimidated, and if you get flustered, your partner can help you express your concern.

When you have a concern about your children’s school, you can be a gateway to better education. For help, click HERE.