Position: MSHS Art Teacher

College(s): Chabot College, Diablo Valley College, William Jessup University

Degrees/Certifications: Still working on my degree

Email: CrystalBecerra@rcs.edu

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

I have always wanted to be a teacher. As a matter of fact whenever someone asked me my name, at the young age of 4 and several years after, my answer would be Mrs. Gonzalez. Playing teacher was my favorite thing to play growing up, reading it to my stuffed animals. But of course as many of us grow up and experience life, our vision can sometimes get clouded. Although, I’v always loved working with children of all ages. I have worked as a Sunday school teacher, middle school leader and youth leader. I still did not experience a clear vision for this calling till recently. It began as a longing in my heart to work with the students at RCS. So I laid this calling at the feet of Jesus, asking him to lead me and guide me to where he wants me and what he would have me do. Before taking this position I have worked as an interior designer flipping homes with my husband doing the designing as well as staging for more than 7 years. I have always loved art, taking it in middle school and high school and creating my own art to decorate with. My college experience includes health courses, prerequisites, several Bible courses as well as psychology courses.

What motivated you to become a teacher at Redwood Christian?

My motivation is to help children experience a fresh encounter with the Lord. For the sake of impacting the next generation with new kingdom hope through Art and my own testimony.

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

I believe my ministry is first wife to my wonderful husband Efrain and mother to my three growing-up-too-fast daughters. When my husband got the news I got the job he cried tears of joy for me. He new and understood on so many levels what this position meant to me. My daughters have been nothing but supportive and helpful to me during this time of preparation. I believe this opportunity that God has gifted me has impacted them in such a profound way. I know I will see more of that fruit in time.

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

One of the extensive experiences I have is as a mother of three almost grown children. Being a parent and raising a family has given me invaluable experience that I will bring to the classroom.

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

My hobbies and interest outside of teaching are theology. I absolutely love and am hungry to know more about Jesus and understand his word more. There are always new understandings whenever I study the word of God. It is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path, Psalm 119:105. I also love to sing and am apart of the worship team at my church. Another hobby is interior design and decorating homes.

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

Unfortunately growing up I had many teachers who were uninspiring. But one teacher, my 5th grade teacher. She told me that I was smart. She worked with me through the year. After I took an important test she called me to her desk and proceeded to tell me I got all the answers right. I will never forget her and the way she taught me to study and most of all how she made me feel about myself. That experience inspires me to inspire my classes today.