Education

Story by Angela Peach

When Nico Chaij (’15) was a high school student at Spring Valley Academy, he was drawn to God, but not necessarily to ministry. To him, ministry was something only truly holy people could do. And yet, his love of learning led him to study the Bible deeply. He also found joy in his roles as junior class pastor and, later, Student Council’s religious vice president (student chaplain). He helped lead a Bible study on the book of Ruth and enjoyed the thrill of helping people find deeper meaning in familiar stories. But a career in ministry? Surely not.

Story by Tami Horst

Story by Laila Gettysmith (’26)

The recent Kimbrough Hall Weekend at Pine Forge Academy, themed "Eden to the Kingdom,” truly brought the journey of faith to life.

The weekend began on Friday evening with an immersive walk-through of Kimbrough Hall, the girls’ dormitory. The lobby was beautifully decorated with an Eden theme, and as participants walked down each wing, they experienced the days of creation.

Story by Nathan Moravetz

Teaching has always been a big part of my life. My mom, grandma and sister were teachers, so, growing up, I wanted to model after them. Later, I spent five summers working at summer camp and came to realize that the most rewarding part for me was being a positive influence on young people.

After my first two years of college, I took a year off to be a student missionary, working as a boys’ dean in Michigan. But I yearned to serve overseas. One day, my friends and I started a conversation about being teachers on the island of Yap, and before we knew it, we were serving on the small island in the Pacific Ocean.