Position: Elementary School Teacher

College(s): Chabot College; California State University, East Bay 

Degrees/Certifications: Bachelor of Arts – Early Childhood Development; Certificate – Assistant Teacher for Early Childhood Development

Email: MichellePleitez@rcs.edu

What is/are your role(s) at Redwood Christian Schools?

I teach first grade–it is so much fun!

What do you love about your role(s) at RCS?

I love that I am FREE to speak boldly about Jesus Christ and can speak life over my kids! Speaking Truth during this day in age has been so important–especially as a first grade teacher.

What sets RCS students apart from students in other schools?

RCS students are encouraged to be bold and impact the world for Christ. We teach wonderful curriculums that help students develop critical thinking skills, discipline, and insight.

How do you inspire your students?

Since I teach first grade, I know that the kids are watching things I do throughout the day. I want to model Christ in the classroom by displaying love, peace, joy, and more. However, these traits come from having a relationship with Jesus Christ and yielding to the Holy Spirit. Inspiring students to know and become like Christ is a huge reason why I am here at RCS. By watching me throughout the year, I hope students will be inspired to follow Jesus.

What do you want your students to gain from having known you?

I want students to end 1st grade knowing about God more---not just intellectually, but through experience. I want to provide a classroom that allows students to get glimpses of God throughout the year through our conversations, lessons, and more. He wants to reveal Himself to us throughout the school year! If my students experienced God in the classroom, that would bring great joy to my heart.

What is your favorite verse?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV