Why teach at a Mennonite school?

Leadership column

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Recently I had an opportunity to speak to a group of prospective teachers who were interested in teaching in a Mennonite elementary or secondary school. I always enjoy such opportunities. They make me articulate convictions about which I am passionate. Here are just a few of the many reasons I gave:



• Mennonite schools create a culture filled with people who are committed to Christ; the interaction in this culture carries an Anabaptist perspective. It takes place in a friendly environment, where high academic standards are pursued. Students are challenged to develop their intellect as well as their spiritual.

• Teachers not only have an opportunity, but also are encouraged to combine a professional career with service to Christ and the church. The classrooms in our Mennonite schools are places where faith, learning, teaching and action intersect.

• Many teachers who have taught in Mennonite schools indicate they developed strong, significant and long-lasting relationships with other teachers. These relationships are based on a common mission and are faith-based. This is true also for the relationships teachers develop with their students and with many of their students’ parents.

• Teaching is not only about a particular subject; it is also about equipping students for ministry in the church and in the world.

• Many parents are committed to the importance of the school’s mission and the interaction of faith and learning.

• Teachers in a Mennonite school can freely integrate faith into a student’s character.
• Teachers contribute to the missional church by establishing foundations of faith in partnership with parents and the church.

• Faith-based education? Teachers are free (and expected) to share and integrate their faith and beliefs into their teaching. Education is viewed as nurturing and developing the gifts of students. Teaching in an environment where colleagues are unified in purpose and goals is an invaluable benefit.

These reasons are valid not only for teaching in Mennonite elementary or secondary schools, but for any level of Mennonite education. They also are a strong rationale for the church to support Mennonite education and why the church should support our schools in a variety of ways. One of the most important ways to support Mennonite schools is by sending them our students.

I realize I am biased. I am biased because I have lived this experience. My commitment and love of the church, my intentions to work hard to help fulfill the missional calling of Mennonite Church USA and my desire to share this widely in both Mennonite and non-Mennonite circles grows out of the impact Mennonite education had for me.

In today’s world of quick fixes and easy answers, the mission of our institutions provides a foundation not only for the church of today but, perhaps even more important, for the church of the future. As a parent, I want to provide my children with the same experiences I had—for them to grow in educational institutions where they are taught through an Anabaptist lens, with high academic standards and rigor with Christ as the foundation, where teachers share a commitment and love for the church and where students are seen as friends.

As a church leader, I am keenly aware that Mennonite education has an impact on people’s identification with the church and their financial support for the church. I am aware that the training of future leaders with an Anabaptist theological understanding and commitment is essential for a healthy church. I know that a Mennonite education even increases the likelihood that graduates will stay in the church.

Therefore, I end with a statement I have made many times: A strong church needs strong academic institutions, and strong Mennonite academic institutions need a strong church. It is not only a need for today but essential for the future strength and vitality of our denomination and our ability to succeed in our calling as God’s people.

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