INSIGHTS FROM A VICTORIOUS EDUCATOR: Beverly Simmons

Dr. Jackie Minor
5 days ago
7 min read

Victory Series: It’s Time to Share!

In our pursuit of living boldly for Christ, it's easy to think our story must be dramatic or publicly visible to be meaningful. In past Victory Series blogs, we've highlighted educators who’ve launched prayer groups with colleagues, started Christian clubs for students, and partnered with community organizations to serve families. Others have equipped students to share their faith with confidence. These are powerful, inspiring examples. They beautifully reflect the mission of Victorious Educator Ministries which is to encourage and equip Christian educators by celebrating how God is working in our schools.

But what if your story doesn’t look like that?

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit lives inside of you (Ephesians 1:13–14). That means God is at work in and through you, every moment of every day. Sometimes His most profound work happens not in the spotlight but in the quiet consistency of daily life. God is at work in the hallway conversations, the patient responses, the unseen prayers, and the countless small choices led by the love of Jesus. Granted, God may call you to start a club or lead a prayer group, and if He does, obey with boldness. However, even if He doesn’t, you are still called. All believers are ambassadors of Christ. We are all called to shine His light in the midst of darkness simply by being faithful where we are.

That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to Beverly Simmons, a veteran public school teacher who lives out her faith not just in big moments but in the faithful, everyday rhythms of the classroom. Her story reminds us that the ordinary becomes extraordinary when we walk with Jesus. I know you’ll be encouraged by her testimony just like I was!

Jackie: Tell us a little about yourself and your career in education.

Beverly: I started out teaching public school music for three and a half years in Virginia. Then I stayed home to raise my children. When I returned to teaching, it was here in Texas, and I’ve been at it ever since. This is my 26th year in the classroom in Texas. I have taught 4th grade most of my career.

Jackie: Many Christian educators view teaching as a calling. How do you see your role?

Beverly: Oh, absolutely it is a calling. I honestly don’t know how people do this work without one. You’re ministering to people and families every day, no matter their age. It’s so much more than academics. Pouring into children’s lives is what we do. One of the most important things I teach is how to treat one another. I also try to teach them what maturity looks like. For example, I try to help 10-year-olds understand that there’s a right time to be playful and a right time to be serious. I help them recognize when it's the right time to say something or when it's better to stay quiet. They may not realize that’s what I’m teaching, but those life lessons are just as valuable as anything academic.

Jackie: What aspect of education do you find most rewarding?

Beverly: Seeing student growth, especially over the course of a school year. I don’t mean just academic growth but emotional and personal maturity, too. The classroom becomes like a family. I remember one student who was dreading moving on to the next grade level. She told me, "When I'm in this room, everyone is kind. We can talk about anything, and people are kind." That was the first time anyone said something like that to me, and it meant a lot.

Jackie: What do you find most challenging?

Beverly: When a district rolls out a new initiative without providing any training, that’s really hard. Everyone’s frustrated, and although I try to stay positive, it’s a challenge when you’re just trying to figure everything out on your own. This was especially true during COVID.

Jackie: When you’re having a tough day or week, how do you stay grounded in what matters?

Beverly: Honestly, it’s the Lord. I pray for strength, wisdom, and help in guarding my reactions. Being the oldest person in the building has its advantages. I can see the big picture. Sometimes I remind myself and others, "This too shall pass." I try to stay focused on the kids and their learning and not let venting or negativity take over. I pray to be His voice and His hands, especially on the hard days. I want to be a voice of reason, love, and patience. God always gives me what I need in those moments.

Jackie: There’s a saying, “You may be the only Bible someone ever reads.” How do you see that in action in your daily teaching?

Beverly: I don’t think about it consciously every day, but I do talk about my faith openly. I’m honest and real with my students and colleagues. It is just a reflection of who I am. Some of my coworkers don’t know the Lord, and I’m very sensitive about not pushing them away. I want my testimony to be authentic. People watch how you handle hard things. They pay attention to how you walk through trials. I never want anyone to think I have it all together. I want them to see how I lean on the Lord.

Jackie: How do you approach the issue of the separation of church and state? This seems to be a concern for many Christian educators.

Beverly: Early on in my career I worried about it more. I had a colleague who didn’t think she could talk about her faith at all. When that happens, it’s easy to fall into the trap of compartmentalizing your beliefs. I’ve learned that when you’re open about your faith, it encourages others—especially fellow Christians—to be open, too. You actually discover who the Christians are! In the past, I have participated in prayer circles on Friday mornings before school. I also look for opportunities to participate in events like “See You at the Pole.” In fact, this year one little boy missed the morning prayer time and came into class saying, “I didn’t get to pray. Can we pray now?” He poured out his heart in prayer right there with me in a quiet place. It was such a privilege.

Jackie: It sounds like your students are comfortable sharing their faith with you.

Beverly: Yes, especially this year. I truly feel God is doing something special. Kids are openly talking about church, their faith, and their relationship with God—and it’s contagious. One starts, and others join in. Some are even bringing their Bibles to class. It’s incredible to see 10-year-olds so open. I told them, “In this room, you are always welcome to talk about your faith.” I hope they remember that as they grow up. It’s a beautiful thing to see students realize they’re not alone.

Jackie: God gives us all talents and gifts. Have you been able to use yours in your school?

Beverly: Yes. My spiritual gift is administration and organization. I use it to stay ahead of things and to support my principal and the leadership team. I believe it’s important to help and encourage those in leadership, however I can.

Jackie: If you were to celebrate one of the best moments of your career, what would it be?

Beverly: I especially love seeing students who struggle finally succeed. I had a young girl who struggled academically and didn’t believe she was smart. Early in the year she broke her wrist, so she had to do everything involving pencil and paper with me. That gave us time to work one-on-one, and I poured encouragement into her. I would say things like, “When did you get to be so smart?” She ended up improving over 35 points in both math and reading on her MAP tests and got back on grade level. Her attitude changed dramatically. It wasn’t easy. She still got frustrated sometimes, but she started doing the hard things like long division and doing them well. Her transformation was a huge blessing to witness. It’s a privilege every year to be part of stories like that.

Jackie: What words of wisdom do you have for Christian educators who want to finish the year strong?

Beverly: First, take care of yourself. Get rest, and pray often. As for the classroom, keep students busy and engaged. Projects work well this time of year. I also try to build excitement for the next grade. I teach 4th grade, so I do “Math Trailers” for 5th grade. I give them a preview of what’s coming, and when they see that they can do it, it builds confidence. I also have my students write letters to next year’s class. It helps them reflect and gives encouragement to those who will follow.

Jackie: Do you have a favorite Scripture you carry with you into the workplace?

Beverly: Yes. Ephesians 6:12. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” This verse helps me remember that the enemy isn’t the student, the parent, or the colleague in front of me. It helps me look beyond the immediate conflict and stay focused on the bigger picture.

Jackie: How can the members of VEM pray for you?

Beverly: Please pray for discernment about when to retire. I want to step out at the right time—in His timing and His way. I don’t want to hold on too long or leave too early. I’m just asking for clear guidance.

Conclusion

Beverly’s journey is a testament to the quiet strength and enduring impact of a teacher who sees her work as both a profession and a ministry. Her story reminds us that the classroom can be sacred ground where seeds of faith are planted, confidence is nurtured, and lives are changed. Whether by encouraging a struggling student, praying with a child, or modeling grace in difficult moments, Beverly reflects the heart of Christ in her daily interactions. As she continues to seek God's guidance for the future, her faithfulness and authenticity serve as a powerful example for all educators.

To every Christian teacher reading this, let Beverly’s story be a reminder that your presence matters. Walk boldly and victoriously in faith within your own schools. Let your words and actions reflect the love and wisdom of Christ. Trust that God has positioned you for a purpose. Know that even in the smallest moments, He is working through you to bring light and truth into the hearts of your students and colleagues. Stay faithful. Stay strong. Finish well.