How teaching aligns with spiritual goals

Rachel O'Malley

McKay Student Ambassador

Elementary Education

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One of the first times I volunteered in a classroom, a teacher asked me to teach multi-digit multiplication to a small group of students in the back of the room. Although I was excited to teach, I quickly became overwhelmed when two boys began disrupting the lesson by shouting, falling out of their chairs, drawing pictures, and even pulling the girls’ hair. Despite my repeated attempts to regain control, their behavior escalated, and my patience began to run out. After taking several deep breaths, I felt prompted to change my perspective. Instead of viewing the boys as uncontrollable monsters, I began to see them as beloved children of God who needed understanding and support. By looking beyond the behavior and responding in a more Christlike way, I was able to regain control of the group and create a more effective learning environment. Learning how to be a teacher has helped me see students, and all people, as divine children of Heavenly Parents. This mindset makes me a more loving and intentional individual who focuses on serving instead of judging others.

Becoming a teacher means dedicating one’s life to Christlike service. It is an act of selfless service that mirrors Christ’s ministry to individuals. Like Jesus Christ, teachers often serve quietly and consistently, without recognition. Choosing to teach is choosing to lift others, especially children who may not recognize their own worth.

In the scriptures, Christ is known as the Master Teacher, and I am inspired by His example of teaching with love and understanding. My goal is to emulate Him as I prepare to help others recognize their divine worth. I have come to see teaching as one of the greatest forms of service, as it allows educators to help students discover their light and divine potential. Whether assisting a child in overcoming an obstacle or offering encouragement, I have witnessed how education can transform lives, which fuels my passion for becoming a teacher.

Teaching also aligns with spiritual goals by creating safe and loving spaces. Just as Christ created environments where people felt seen, valued, and safe, teachers can foster classrooms where students feel emotionally and supported as they grow. In elementary school, I felt a huge weight lifted off every time I stepped into my first grade classroom because of the environment my teacher created that made me feel empowered and safe.

Christ spent His life helping others progress and reach their potential. Just as Christ helps us grow line upon line, teachers support gradual learning. One of my favorite moments in teaching is seeing a student’s eyes light up when they finally understand a challenging concept. Teachers rejoice in others’ growth, much as Christ rejoices in ours.

Teaching develops Christlike attributes through daily practice. Patience when lessons do not go as planned, humility in learning from students, faith that small efforts matter, and hope when progress is slow. Most importantly, teaching cultivates charity, the pure love of Christ. These attributes extend beyond the classroom and bring lasting joy. I have already seen the great progress I have made by striving to be like Christ as a teacher and learning how to emulate Him in my classes.

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