At SMCA, we believe that Christian education extends far beyond the classroom—it’s a ministry that shapes hearts, inspires minds, and builds community among educators who share a common calling. This fall, our teachers had the incredible opportunity to grow both professionally and spiritually through two meaningful events: the ACSI Early Education “Unshakable” Conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and a joint professional development day with Grace Christian Academy (GCA). Each experience reminded us of the privilege we have to teach from a biblical worldview, to collaborate with fellow Christian educators, and to continually strengthen our practice for the glory of God.

Unshakable: Reflections from the ACSI Early Education Conference

Lancaster, Pennsylvania – October 24, 2025

“Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.” — Hebrews 12:28

Our Early Education and Elementary teams had the privilege of attending the ACSI Early Education “Unshakable” Conference in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It was a day filled with encouragement, learning, worship, and collaboration with fellow Christian educators who share the same heart for young children and the classrooms we prayerfully prepare for them each day.

The conference theme, Unshakable, served as a powerful reminder that while the world around us constantly shifts and changes, our foundation in Christ remains firm. As educators, we are called not only to teach but also to guide children toward the steadfast truth of God’s Word—through our lessons, our actions, and the environments we create.

A significant takeaway from the conference was the reminder that faith and educational research beautifully complement one another. Many sessions emphasized how children learn best through connection, intentional experiences, play, music, movement, and nurturing relationships—all principles that reflect how Scripture calls us to care for and guide the hearts of children. The conference was not just about new teaching strategies; it was about strengthening the “why” behind what we do every day.

Our teams returned home refreshed, encouraged, and inspired, with renewed vision and gratitude for the ministry God has entrusted to us. We are thankful for the children we serve and for the privilege of partnering with families during these formative early years.

Our God is faithful, and His Kingdom is truly unshakable!

-Kristen Horton, Elementary Principal

Joint Professional Development Day with GCA

“And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” — Hebrews 10:24-25

SMCA Secondary Teachers recently had the privilege and opportunity to join GCA for a day of professional development and fellowship.

The day began with a time of heartfelt worship, setting a beautiful tone of unity and purpose. It was truly a blessing to worship alongside the GCA staff and their students! As teachers entered GCA’s sanctuary lobby, a warm welcome and a wonderful spread of food helped calm the excitement and anticipation of the day ahead.

Throughout the event, teachers from both schools participated in and led a variety of professional learning sessions. A special shoutout goes to SMCA’s Mr. Jacob Namyst (“Labs”), Mrs. Alicia Campbell (“Labs” & “Nearpod”), Mrs. Katelyn Torres (“Building Relationships”), and Mrs. Candace Crawford (“Brain Science”) for leading impactful workshops!

The day was filled with opportunities to explore new instructional strategies, refresh teaching methods, and discover innovative ways to create lessons that reach and inspire all learners. Here’s what some of our teachers had to say about their experience:

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“I really appreciated collaborating and interacting with new teachers.”
— Mr. Remo (Spanish)

“The Biblical Integration session was my favorite. It helped open my eyes that integration doesn’t have to always be about the curriculum–it’s about pointing students to God in everyday classroom situations.”
— Mrs. Lyon (Science & Robotics)

“I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and learn of other believers in Jesus and their passion to teach the next generation. Although at different schools, if we can instill godly principles in a new generation no matter where the school is–we can start to kingdom seeds in the next generation regardless of location. And that’s how we evangelize Southern Maryland!”
— Mr. Jackson (Bible)

“I’ve always viewed GCA as our rival, but when you meet people on the same page, it’s really different! They treated us so well! It was a great experience, and I want to do it again! But remember–on the basketball court, it’s another story!”
— Coach Nelson (PE)

“Engaging with other teachers was great, the ‘Biblical Integration’ seminar was great, the food was great, and I loved connecting with their resource teacher to implement new ideas!”
— Mrs. Young (Resource)

“I’m already seeing a difference from implementing what I learned in ‘Building Relationships’! As students enter my classroom and as I greet them in the hall, I’ve started acknowledging them by name, and students are engaging more. And the Chipotle lunch was great!”
— Mrs. Tullos (History & Science)

“I especially enjoyed hearing from GCA’s director–being reminded of our mission and purpose was so inspirational! And I learned a lot in ‘Brain Science’!”
— Mrs. Gheen (History)

“It was so nice to collaborate and support each other rather than be their rivals!”
— Mrs. Wallis (English)

“My favorite session was ‘Centers and Active Classrooms’ as I didn’t realize that I already have been incorporating–it was encouraging to see others doing exactly what we’re doing! It was so nice to collaborate!”
— Mrs. Danielson (English)

“It’s great to be rivals and to be one! It’s exciting to seek to grow kids with faith together while also waving on the court and then crossing our arms until we win!”
— Mrs. Cunningham (PE)

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We are deeply grateful to GCA for hosting this first joint professional development day. It was an honor to learn, worship, and grow alongside fellow educators united by a shared faith and mission.

A special thank-you goes out to Stacie Buhl and Megan Schaniel for their hard work and leadership in organizing such a meaningful event. We look forward to continuing this partnership next year and inviting more Christian schools in the area to join us.

Our God is good and faithful!

-Jennifer George, Events Coordinator

Both of these experiences reaffirmed what we already know to be true—our foundation as Christian educators is firm because it is built on Christ. Whether through worship and fellowship with other schools, or through reflection and renewal at a conference, God continues to equip and encourage our teachers for the vital work of guiding students in truth and love.

We are deeply grateful for every opportunity to learn, grow, and partner with others who share our mission of preparing students academically, spiritually, and relationally for lives that honor God. As we look ahead, we remain committed to being “unshakable” in our faith and steadfast in our purpose: to teach, to serve, and to build His Kingdom together.