Christian Teacher Spotlight: Sharing Faith in the Classroom with Julia Harris

How One High School Biology Teacher Boldly Integrated Faith into Public Education

Good Friday morning, everyone!

As we reflect during Holy Week, I’m excited to introduce you to an inspiring woman of faith I met during my time at Grove City College. She’s this week’s featured educator in our Friday Teacher Feature series. Her passion for Jesus, learning, and her students continues to amaze me. Without further ado, meet Julia Harris.

Hi y’all! My name is Julia (Tolson) Harris, and I’m thrilled to be featured on Dr. Fecich’s blog. Dr. Fecich was such a blessing to me during my time at Grove City!

A little about me: I’m a newly married, outgoing, coffee-loving Grove City grad. My greatest passion is helping people, especially students, come to know Jesus.

I taught high school biology for two years and look forward to returning to the classroom soon. Right now, I’m taking a short break to finish my master’s degree in School Library and Information Science.

Faith-Based Teaching in a Public School

My favorite part of teaching high school biology in a public school was sharing the gospel and engaging in meaningful conversations about faith with my students.

Let me preface this by saying: I was a bit bolder (some might say “crazy”) than most Christian teachers when it came to sharing my faith in the classroom. I mostly followed the rules about religion in public schools, but not always to the letter.

Here are a few ways I integrated faith into my classroom without breaking the rules:

Faith in the Classroom Strategy 1: Speaking Truth

I often quoted biblical truths without directly referencing the Bible. Phrases like:

• “Love is patient, love is kind.”

• “Encourage one another and build each other up.”

• “Put others above yourself.”

• “Your life matters.”

• “You were made with a purpose.”

As a biology teacher, I’d say things like:

• “This biological process leaves me in awe of the incredible world we live in.”

• “The human body is magnificent—studying anatomy feels like witnessing a miracle.”

  
  

Faith in the Classroom Strategy 2: Reading Truth

Each morning before school, I read my Bible in my classroom. It was always open and visible before and after school hours. If students came in early or stayed late for help, they’d often see it front and center on my desk.

Faith in the Classroom Strategy 3: Answering Questions with Truth

In my school, teachers were allowed to answer faith-related questions if students initiated the conversation. I took every opportunity to respond with honesty and faith, even if the question wasn’t directly about religion.

For example:

• If a student asked why I emailed them at 5 a.m., I’d say:“I spend time with Jesus in the morning, and after my devotions, I start my day.”

• If they asked why I liked running, I’d say: “I love praying and memorizing Bible verses while I run.”

  
  

Faith in the Classroom Strategy 4: Praying for Students

I prayed for my students daily. With 147 students, I used “calling sticks” (popsicle sticks with names) to randomly select 5–10 students to pray for each morning. Of course, I believe God knew exactly who needed prayer each day.

God bless y’all! I’m so excited for each of you and your future careers in education. You’re going to change the world—one child at a time. Teaching can be exhausting, but it’s a small price to pay for the most rewarding job in the world.

In Christ,

Julia (Tolson) Harris (High School Biology Teacher)