Position: 5th Grade Teacher

College(s): Concordia University Irvine

Degrees/Certifications: Bachelor of Arts-Liberal Studies and Multiple Subjects California Teaching Credential

Email: BethanyChhom@rcs.edu

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

God has blessed me with amazing teachers who loved Jesus throughout my entire educational journey and in my own family. Being shaped by these wonderful men and women of God, I developed a love and joy of learning. I looked up to them immensely and wanted to impact other children and point them to Christ as they had done for me. God has given me a heart for children and a passion for teaching.   God then led me to go to Concordia University in Irvine for their teaching program. I earned a Bachelor of Arts-Liberal Studies degree with a minor in Psychology. After graduating, I received my Multiple Subjects California Teaching Credential.   I have been blessed to work with children from Kindergarten through 8th grade. I began teaching 4th grade and throughout the years I also taught 3rd grade, 1st grade and Kindergarten. As God called me into different teaching positions, I was able to become even more flexible and versatile in my teaching, experiencing not only different grade levels but also varying student needs.

What motivated you to become a teacher at Redwood Christian?

Having taught in Christian schools previous to having my own children, I loved the freedom to speak openly and boldly about my faith and incorporated my love for Jesus into every subject daily with my students. After been a stay-at-home mom with my children while they were young, I desired to eventually go back to teaching. My prayer was that the Lord would open the door for me to be where my children were. God has been faithful, preparing and paving the way. I'm excited and thankful for this opportunity to continue to do my two favorite jobs teaching and being a Mom.   Redwood has been such a wonderful school for my children. Seeing first hand the amazing education that my children are receiving from such tremendous and Godly teachers made me excited to be a part of that team. God is so good!

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

I've been married to my amazing husband David for 14 years! We've been blessed with two wonderful kids. Judah is entering 4th grade and Nora 1st grade. My family is excited to see me answer God's call to do what I love. My children are excited to see me everyday on campus.

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

God has given me a huge heart for people and serving those in need physically, emotionally and spiritually. Teaching my students to serve others as the hands and feet of Christ and instilling in them the fruits of the spirit is an honor and privilege. A project I really enjoy involves selecting a child to sponsor who is of similar age to the class I am teaching. This opportunity allows the children to see global needs and learn more about geography, art and writing in the process. Collaboratively thinking about ways they can show up in their community, developing a servant's heart and serving in practical ways is a passion I will enjoy bringing into the classroom.

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

I love being outside in God's creation, camping, traveling and exploring with my family. Music, live theatre, and reading also bring me joy. My kids and I love doing hands on activities together such as science experiments, art projects and baking.

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

When I am outside in God's beautiful creation I am always inspired. I'm inspired as the Holy Spirit fills me with confidence in who God created me to be in His image. I am inspired by His loving care and attention to such intricate detail. I am in awe as I marvel at His handiwork. This inspiration shapes my teaching as I desire to point my students to Christ as they discover the beauty of His creation through our study of science together. I'm inspired to provide my students with hands-on, meaningful, learning experiences where they can think critically, be engaged, work together and discover the gifts and talents that the Lord has given them.