At Concordia University Wisconsin, students are nurtured to serve, lead, and inspire future generations, embodying the mission of educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. One student who exemplifies this holistic approach is Angelina Reiter, a senior in the Secondary Mathematics Education program, whose journey is deeply rooted in her faith and commitment to teaching.
A Calling to Serve
Angelina’s desire to pursue education comes from the influence of mentors both inside and outside the classroom. “I have been inspired to pursue a career in education so I can instill courage into the hearts and souls of those around me,” she says. Angelina is driven by a mission to encourage students and affirm their identity in Christ, just as her mentors did for her.
Why Concordia?
Concordia’s mission of educating the whole person was a significant factor in Angelina’s decision to join the program. She reflects on how this approach has impacted her educational journey: “Concordia has shown me how important it is to teach the entire person in mind, body, and spirit.” This Christ-centered mission has been pivotal in preparing Angelina for her future role as a teacher.
Angelina’s experience with her professors and advisors has played a key role in her development. “At Concordia, I have received a great amount of knowledge from my advisors and professors that I am very excited to bring into my own classroom. From classroom management tips to lesson plan essentials, I feel well prepared to create a God-centered respectful community in my classroom.”
A Passion for Teaching Mathematics
Angelina’s excitement for teaching math is clear, and she’s determined to make the subject more engaging for her students. “Typically, students see a lot of math homework and math tests, but I want my students to master content and apply it to their everyday lives.” She’s committed to integrating hands-on learning projects and formative assessments into her classroom, allowing students to take ownership of their learning. “In order to achieve this goal, I must bring in more hands-on learning to the classroom and allow students to grow in being responsible for their own learning.”
Leadership Rooted in Humility and Christ
One of the most profound lessons Angelina has learned at Concordia is the true meaning of leadership. “I have grown in what I believe a leader is at its core. A leader is someone who humbles themselves and leads like Jesus.” She references John 13, where Jesus washes His disciples’ feet, as a model for leadership: “Jesus (the Mighty one) gets down on His hands and humbly washes His disciples’ feet. That is what I model now—that is how one becomes a great leader.”
This Christ-like humility has shaped Angelina’s approach to leadership, both in the classroom and beyond. “I have learned that people respond best when I am humble and serving them on my hands and feet, doing whatever they need in the moment. At Concordia, I have redefined the word ‘leader’ to just that. Jesus, in His greatness and perfection, got down on His hands and feet and served those around Him.” This servant leadership is something Angelina plans to bring into her future classroom, leading her students by example.
Looking Ahead
Angelina feels prepared to take on her calling as an educator, with faith guiding her path. “Here I am, Lord, send me,” she says, quoting a phrase that has resonated with her throughout her journey. After graduation, she will be teaching mathematics to students she feels God has chosen her to serve. “I feel prepared and encouraged in mind and spirit from my mentors and support network at Concordia. I am ready to serve students and teach them as a whole person.”
For Angelina, teaching is not just about imparting academic knowledge—it’s about nurturing the spiritual and moral development of her students as well. “I want to teach them math content as well as enrich their moral beliefs and show them the light of Christ. Concordia has shown me how important it is to teach the entire person in mind, body, and spirit, and with that, I feel very prepared for my future career as an educator.”
Faith and Passion
When asked about how her love for Jesus and children aligns with her teaching philosophy, Angelina’s answer is simple: “Jesus is easily the Master Teacher. He models great teaching strategies such as repetition, real-world application, and more. I try my best to model after Jesus.” Her passion for both education and faith is evident in everything she does. “I truly love people and want to ignite a love of Jesus for them in their hearts.”
Angelina’s commitment to her faith is at the heart of her teaching philosophy, and she is eager to plant seeds of faith in her students’ lives while inspiring them to become lifelong learners. “I seek my everyday strength and joy from Jesus, and that is how I get my motivation to be an educator and one who loves the people around me.”
Learn More
For more information on Concordia’s Secondary Mathematics Education program, visit the program overview.
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. To learn more or apply today, click the link below.