I’ve worked in public schools for over three decades. These halls are tied to my soul. Though I don’t say Jesus’s name, this is where I see Him the most and serve Him with total capacity.

I’ve worked as an educator at every level, from elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school levels. I’ve taught U.S. History Government and have been a counselor for ten years. Serving students in urban and rural schools, I’ve touched almost every demographic within our country. I’ve learned that no one is an enemy, and God loves all kids and families.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in life have come from learning from others whose lives differ vastly from mine.

I’ve learned that my financial and educational resources don’t make my way of life right for those who may not have what I do. I’ve learned to honor the lives of others and what they have learned. Life experiences teach us all. God is present in every life, whether we acknowledge it or not. I’ve learned to meet others where they are at.

Working with all levels of demographics, I’ve learned that government policies that are best for me are not best for all, especially those more vulnerable. I’ve served in public schools across various administrations and don’t fear political change. State laws have detrimentally affected me as an educator and the students I serve with more testing and fewer resources. But somehow, no matter what school I work in or the situation (including a pandemic), we figure out how to do what’s best for kids.

As a Christian who has taught U.S. History for years, this election day intrigues me but does not threaten me. I’ve taught students the horrors and missteps of every period in our county, and we’ve put it in context and learned from it.

No matter what happens today, we will survive. We will grow, we will thrive. Why?

Because God is in control—He always has been and always will be. People in our communities matter most, especially the children and the vulnerable.

No matter who wins, the same students will walk through the doors of my school, and we will serve them as we have each day before. We will help meet their needs so they can become adults who can make a difference in the world in which they live, which will outlive me. Social media and AI are a more significant threat to the health and safety of our country because of how they affect today’s children–not the outcome of the election.

So, no matter who wins today, I’ve learned there are more significant issues we should be focusing on than fighting over the ballot box.