Embracing the Awkward: Why Middle Schoolers Are Worth the Investment

“I wish people would see them as the little people that they are.” — Courtney Wallace

Middle school … it can be an awkward phase of life. 

 

Underneath it all, middle schoolers are a great group of students.  

 

Maybe you are a middle school educator navigating through these emotions, quirks, and awkwardness.  

 

In this episode of the Teacher Edition Podcast, Jenny welcomes Courtney Wallace, a passionate middle school educator who sees her role inside the classroom as a mission field.

You will hear practical tips and encouraging insights for those inside the middle school classrooms, such as:

• Building a calming, welcoming classroom environment
• Encouraging students to ask questions and support each other as they grow in independence and confidence
• Building relationships with students by investing in their interests both inside and outside the classroom
• Seeing middle schoolers not just as “awkward” but as deeply impressionable young people searching for understanding, connection, and leadership

 

Even amidst the drama and unpredictability middle schoolers are facing, they are in the most formative years of their lives. Our role as educators is to walk alongside them as they discover who they are — helping shape their biblical worldview, supporting their growth, and pointing them to something bigger than themselves. 

 

Every day in the classroom is YOUR day to impact and inspire through God's power and grace working in you. 

 

Go do what God has called you to do!

About Our Guest

Courtney Wallace is a seventh- and eighth-grade teacher from Muncie, Indiana. She earned a degree in middle school education and has been teaching at Heritage Hall Christian School since January of 2023.

 

Sponsored By

Now, more than ever, children need a learning experience that enables them to think critically, advances them academically, and encourages them to live biblically. BJU Press serves Christian educators with academically rigorous resources written from a biblical worldview to prepare the next generation to be salt and light in society. We are committed to doing everything we can so Christian education can do everything it must. Visit our website today or contact your Territory Manager to learn more. [bjupress.com]

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