THOUGHTS ON CONDUCTING TEACHERS’ MEETINGS.
By Evangeline Bell
Again and again we hear the remark made by Sabbath-school workers, “We would like to have teachers’ meetings, if we knew what to do; but we have never attended one, and have but little idea how one should be conducted.” It is a subject upon which much might be said and written, and then perhaps the question not be satisfactorily answered. Probably no definite course can be marked out, which it would always be best to follow. The manner of conducting such meetings must vary according to circumstances. More freedom is usually felt by all, where there is as little formality as may be consistent with the best use of the time. It should be a season of counsel between officers and teachers in regard to the best interests of the school; and the more easy and conversational the style, the more at home all will feel, and the more freedom there will be in expressing opinions. It seems proper to open such a meeting with singing and a short season of prayer. The superintendent may then introduce any plans he has in mind, either in regard to the general welfare of the school, or that of any particular class. Indeed, where the school is of ordinary size, he may have time to inquire of each teacher concerning his class, the interest and progress of its members, etc. If he does this in the right spirit, the teachers will usually be glad to present their difficulties, as well as their successes; and thus one may learn from the experience of others. Teachers should be given opportunity to ask questions, either in regard to their own classes, or upon any subject which may be of general interest to the meeting. One question will often call out another and another, until a real spirit of inquiry is awakened. If there is any question upon which all cannot agree, it may be well to refer it to the State officers or to some experienced worker. There is one way in which the time may always be pleasantly as well as profitably employed. This is in the recitation and discussion of the different lessons, either for the coming Sabbath, or those in review. The superintendent may have instructions to give, or the other officers and the teachers may have thoughts the mutual exchange of which will be profitable. Often some hard point in the lesson is not well understood by all, and explanation may be made by the superintendent or others upon whom he may call. It is of course better that the lesson be studied before coming to the meeting; but if this has not been done, some one may slowly and distinctly read the lesson, at least once, and then the questions may be asked. By this time all will have obtained some idea of the lesson, and are prepared to listen intelligently to any thoughts upon it. Any interesting fact from history, Bible dictionary, or other such source, having a direct bearing upon the lesson, may be brought to the meeting and presented for the benefit of all the teachers. Any description of Bible lands and places mentioned in the lesson, either by the superintendent or teachers, may also be interesting; and if there are suitable maps in the possession of the school, the places should be pointed out. Thus the teachers may have a much better preparation for meeting their classes than they otherwise would. The importance of doing all in their power to secure a regular attendance in their classes cannot be too strongly urged upon the teachers. Much may be done by visiting the pupils at their homes, and trying to interest them in the lessons. Names of those who should be members of the Sabbath-school, may be brought to the meeting; and those who are likely to have influence with them, may volunteer to visit and try to induce them to come to Sabbath-school. At such a meeting, if not held on the Sabbath, it is proper to present any business which should come before the teachers. Every officer and every teacher should feel that he has a part to do in making the meeting interesting. The whole burden of it should not be left upon the superintendent, while the teachers sit passive, expecting to be entertained. It is a teachers’ meeting, and every one should come there with a mind to work.