Dear Families,
I am Mrs. Harrington, now known as "Coach" around campus. I am new to Sonrise this year although I am not new to teaching. I am starting my 11th year of teaching PE. What a joy it has been to be at Sonrise! It's only been a few short weeks, yet I already feel at home.
I am getting to know your students (the names will take me a while as I have to remember 350+) but this place is amazing. Anyway, here is something that has been on my heart and I'd love to share it with you--and as a PE teacher, I promise to keep it short.
I want to just share with you my heart for Christian Education and how grateful I am to be a part of such an amazing Christian school. I had the privilege of growing up in Christian Education from K-12 grade and I never realized until later in life the value of Christian Education. My "Papa" (my grandpa) was Dr. Paul A. Kienel, the founder ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International). He had always told me that I was going to be a teacher; and of course, when I was a stubborn 18-year-old, I would say, "Sorry Papa. I want to go into sports medicine, it's close to education but not quite." He would just tell me that the Lord has blessed me with so many talents and that I should make sure to use them for His glory." The summer after I graduated High School, I was offered a JV basketball coaching job. Of course, I didn't have anything else to do so I said yes. Little did I know the trajectory of my life would completely change that summer. I fell in love with coaching which is very similar to teaching. I loved every second of coaching, it changed me from the inside out. Here I am 11 years later and I am still absolutely in love with teaching. I love to teach, especially PE. I am guessing it is also some of your student's favorite subjects as well! I am so grateful to be at a Sonrise Christian school. The Administration here places such a value on PE and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and I get the privilege to teach your students that every day.
My Papa went to be with Jesus in December 2020. He was my hero, my mentor, and just simply the best. I miss him so much but one thing I do know is he is looking down and smiling because I did choose to go into Christian Education and I am so proud to be a small part of his legacy.
Parents, thank you for choosing Sonrise, and thank you for the investment you are making in your students. It may take them a while to realize the sacrifice you have made to send them here. I mean if they are anything like me, it may take them 18-plus years to learn to appreciate your sacrifice, the loving teachers and staff, and most importantly the value of a Christ-centered Education. But don't worry--they will.
I am praying for you and with you for each and every student here on this campus.
In Him,
Coach Harrington
Read this week's Eagle Express here: https://bit.ly/3EQWhQB