I love being a part of the McKay School here at BYU because we learn so much about how Jesus Christ, the Master Teacher, taught and how we can follow His example. Here are a few of my favorite lessons I have learned from the Master Teacher!
One of the most compelling lessons I've learned is the importance of teaching with love and understanding. In Matthew 22:39 Christ teaches, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." This principle, although simple, has profound implications for teaching. It suggests that effective teaching cannot happen without genuine empathy and concern for our students' well-being and growth, both physical and personal. We are reminded that each student we teach is someone's child, a brother, a sister, a friend, and they deserve the same care and respect we would hope for our own loved ones.
An equally important lesson is the power of example. As Paul wrote to Timothy, "Be thou an example of the believers" (1 Timothy 4:12). This scripture resonates with me as a future physical education teacher. Our role goes beyond teaching physical skills; we are also role models. How we handle stress, interact with others, and take care of our bodies preaches far louder than any lecture on health or fitness ever could. Our actions can inspire our students to strive for better, to push past their perceived limits, and to develop lifelong habits of healthy living.
President Russell M. Nelson's talk, Peacemakers Needed from April 2023, also guides my approach to teaching. He emphasizes the need for civility, respect, and understanding in our interactions. As future educators, we're not just teaching sports or physical activities, but we're also imparting life skills such as teamwork and discipline. We are fostering environments where students learn to resolve conflicts with respect and empathy, reflecting the teachings of Christ to be advocates of peace and understanding.
Finally, the Master Teacher exemplifies the importance of individualized attention. Christ often taught the masses, but He never overlooked the one. He saw the individual—their needs, their strengths, and their potential. In a physical education setting, this translates to recognizing each student's unique capabilities and challenges. It's about encouraging them to surpass their personal bests, not just achieving a standard grade or score.
What have you learned from the Master Teacher? To meet with a McKay School ambassador, click here.