The month of June marks the momentous occasion of the end of the academic year for secondary students in this area. This is the time of year all students look forward to as soon as they start school the previous September. They count down the days until they can leave those hallowed halls of education. However, awards ceremonies need to be attended before the final bell rings. This can be a time of knowing one's accomplishments and achievements.

I had an opportunity to attend an awards ceremony at a Christian school. What stood out to me was the way students were awarded their awards. The teachers awarded each student with a certificate with a characteristic they exemplified during the school year. Characteristics such as “dependable,” “determined,” “gentle,” “thoughtful,” and “generous” were awarded to the students. For the most part, the students did not know they would receive a certain reward. Some were prey surprised. I felt that this was a testament to how the teachers were able to instill these characteristics into their students. Besides teaching students academics, the teachers spent me to disciple these students to grow in the fruits of the Spirit. I observed a few teachers becoming emotional and tearing up when giving the awards to their students. The awards ceremony was truly heartfelt.

These students have been provided with foundational Biblical teachings, which they can build on as they progress in their spiritual journeys. Each encounter these students have at school, at home, and at church will only help strengthen their walk with Christ.