private schools Christian preschool

    Ankeny Christian Academy    
                    But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
                            They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
                                they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

 

SECONDARY ENGLISH

Mrs. Donna Gallt

E-mail: donna.gallt AT ankenychristianacademy.com 

Many individuals can say they knew what they wanted to do early in life.   I cannot say I always knew I wanted to be a teacher.   What I can say is that God placed within me a passion to serve and a desire to influence others in a positive way.  What a greater opportunity could He have given me than to be part of teaching, nurturing, and disciplining the next generation to serve Him.  Although teaching was not part of my plan in those early years, it is evident that God used life experiences to prepare and equip me to serve in the teaching profession.

Growing up in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York encouraged a life-long love of nature.  More importantly, it was God's revelation of Himself through nature that first brought me to Himself.  Who I am and what I continue to become is built on the foundation of faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ.  Furthermore, being brought up in a disciplined, yet loving home, surrounded by a very large extended family close by, added to my preparation.  Caring about and serving others was a natural part of my everyday life. The discipline, importance of serving, and striving to be a good example now extends into teaching and relationships with students.

Initial interests in teaching originally developed through teaching Sunday school in a little country church in my husband's home town.  Many years of teaching Sunday school and being involved in numerous and varied children and youth ministries flamed the passion and interest, as well as unknowingly continued the preparation process.  Only after my own children were older did I consider getting a teaching degree.  Attending and completing college later in life was a tremendous privilege.  I graduated not only with a degree, but more importantly, the mindset of a life-long learner.  One of my greatest desires is to pass this outlook toward learning to my students.  I didn't know my passion to serve and desire to influence others would lead to the classroom, but God did.

Life outside the classroom is filled with challenge and adventure.  Spending time with my husband, grown children and their spouses, and grandchildren account for hours filled with joy and fun.  Spending time in nature, gardening, and walking/jogging provide opportunities to refresh body, mind and spirit.