“Make the Most of It, and Do It With Love!”
Q&A with Mrs. Cortney Christopher
What do you love most about teaching physical education at OLMC?
I love being able to help the students grow into their God-given abilities. Physical education is so much more than just various activities in the gym or outside. Team-work, sportsmanship, learning how to win, and learning how to lose are also integral parts of each class. Those skills help develop not only a great athlete but a lifelong learner. Every student has a unique way of learning, and it is so beautiful to see them learn new skills and display such great joy when doing so.
How has your background in forensics and juvenile justice prepared you for your current role as teacher and coach?
My background in forensics and juvenile justice allowed me to see a different side of life. A side that is not easy to understand because of the nature of things you are exposed to. Many times you are left to put together all of the broken pieces when someone has lost his way or made some really bad choices. You have to figure out how or why it happened and know that even when you figure it out, you will still be left with questions that will never be answered. You wish they knew God and understood the love he has for us.
Besides all the technical skills, these experiences brought me closer to God. They also allowed me to grow in patience, helped me be aware of verbal and non-verbal cues, and helped me continue to develop my communication and listening skills. They humbled me and taught me to look for the positive and to always leave people better than you found them.
Those skills are crucial in both teaching and coaching. The experience of working with juveniles who have struggled, and then seeing what those struggles can lead to, is one of the reasons I emphasize the the foundational side of physical education: conflict resolution, effective communication with peers, and always striving to be your best. This is the side that allows for understanding and Grace. Maybe a student is upset because he didn’t have breakfast before he got to school, maybe he was rushing to get to school, or maybe he’s having a hard time. Sometimes a simple “How is everything going?” or “Please know you are loved!” can make all the difference. You can always find a positive moment during the day. Make the most of it and do it with love!
If parents could be flies on the wall for one activity, what would you most want them to see and why?
If parents could be flies on the wall for one activity I would want them to see parachute day activities. From youngest to oldest, bringing out the parachute brings the students so much joy. It is a beautiful way to bring it all together. Teamwork while making waves, good sportsmanship during the game of cat and mouse, joy while playing popcorn, and a sense of wonder and amazement while making an igloo. It is a site to see and experience!
You’ve talked about the importance of the mind-body connection. Can you explain a little bit about what that is and why it matters?
Physical activity helps with focus, alertness, and improved memory. The mind-body connection essentially links the importance of thought to performance. Positive attitude and thoughts about an activity leads to positive performance. For example, proper form when running leads to greater endurance and a better pace. If you don’t focus on the form and apply what you have learned in a positive way, you will hinder your performance.
Many times new activities can make students nervous. Students might tell themselves they can’t do something before they even try. Because they believe they can’t, they won’t try, which then reaffirms their belief.
In class we work on the foundation of activities and developing a positive mindset. This helps students work towards individual and class goals without talking themselves out of it before they try. Knowing you can put forth your best effort to work towards your own success makes for a joyful spirit and greater confidence. You might not be great at everything, but you will have a positive mindset towards learning new activities without much hesitation.
Finish this sentence: “If I wasn’t teaching and coaching at OLMC, I’d probably be….”
Running a PE style fitness facility or classes to help children continue to find joy and confidence through activity. It is so important for children and adults to have some form of daily activity. I have found activities that don't necessarily feel like “exercise” and are more game-based but still include exertion, energy, and that mind-body connection can get children motivated to participate. A great game of kickball might be all it takes to lift the spirit and burn off some energy!
For more about Mrs. Christopher, check out her bio in our Faculty & Staff directory!