Position: 1st Grade Teacher

College(s): Saint Mary’s College of California; Cal State Teach Fresno

Degrees/Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Accounting; Multiple Subject Credential

Email: VanessaChavez@rcs.edu

How did God call you into teaching, and/or what are your professional credentials (or prior work experience)?

The Lord in His mercy has given me the privilege to teach in some capacity since I was in High School. However, I didn’t know that God called me to teach until I was assisting a teacher as a paraeducator in 2014, who had challenged me to look into teaching. At that time I was taking classes to pursue a career in midwifery and had no intention to change my career path but God did. After seeking the Lord in prayer and reading His word, it was clear that he had called me to teach. As I recounted what God has allowed me to experience and do since my youth, it was evident that God had uniquely formed me to teach.

What motivated you to become a teacher at Redwood Christian?

I applied to be a teacher at Redwood Christian Elementary because I want to work with like minded believers in Jesus Christ. I know that God gave me gifts and talents to further His kingdom by making disciples and teaching others who God is and I can do that unashamedly here.

Tell us about your family and how they are looking forward to this new opportunity.

My parents, sisters, aunt, uncle, and spiritual family are all very excited that I have made the move from public education to private. They know that God is my first love and are happy for the opportunity that God has given me to serve Him in an environment that is centered on Him. They also believe that by His sovereign hand and design He has chosen this time for me to be a part of Redwood Christian Elementary to grow in a deeper knowledge of Him and I couldn’t be more grateful for their support and encouragement.

What is a unique experience, talent or interest that you bring to your classroom to help shape the learning experience of your students?

Over the years, I have experienced God’s immense love through people that embody genuine love in Christ. They not only taught me the Word of God, but corrected me in love, forgave my offenses, encouraged me in the faith, and walked alongside me. Because I have been made rich by their lives and them coming alongside of me God’s love has been palpable. I desire to give my students and their families what has been freely given to me.

Do you have any other hobbies/interests outside of teaching?

I like to go on walks, preferably where I can see horses. I enjoy choreographing dances and making cards too.

Our tagline is “Inspiring Futures.” How will a time you’ve been inspired shaped your teaching?

God has inspired me to take Him at His word and trust Him. I want to build strong relationships with my students, where they know that I am trusting God to lead me so that I can lead them. As they see me trust God, they are trusting me when I am encouraging them to overcome their fears and take risks so they can discover new things and be inspired by them.