For over 50 years, Bob Jones University has been a vital partner to Christian schools by hosting its annual recruitment conference. This event welcomes school administrators to the campus, where they can connect with students and share ministry opportunities. Many teachers nationwide and globally have secured their first teaching positions through these recruitment events. While the conference is open to students from all majors, with opportunities for roles such as administrative assistants, dorm supervisors and athletic directors, its primary focus remains on recruiting teachers. The recent spike in enrollment within many Christian schools has highlighted the importance of this recruitment event for these ministries.
At our latest recruitment conference in November, we welcomed 65 schools, ranging in size from 40 to 4,500 students. The average enrollment among these institutions was 518, with a median of just under 300. While most schools arrived with specific lists of grade-level and content-area teachers needed for the upcoming school year, others attended to enhance name recognition and build relationships with our students. Historically, the demand for secondary math and science teachers has been high, with over 25 schools seeking to fill one or both of those positions. Additionally, over 50 schools sought to fill early childhood and elementary positions.
The event began with BJU president, Dr. Bruce McAllister, sharing his heart for Christian education and the impact it has had on his life. Following, Dr. Brian Carruthers, BJU SOEHS dean, led a seminar for the school leaders attending the event. Each year features a different focus, and this year’s theme centered on instructional leadership. He challenged school leaders to create both a smart and healthy school culture by investing in the school’s most valuable resource—the teachers. Participants were challenged to lead their employees not only through good hiring and onboarding practices but also through continual investment and coaching along the way. Dr. Scott Buhr, division chair of the Teacher Education department, and Kevin Schmidt, BJU’s Director of Student Engagement and Success, added to the conversation by sharing their coaching insights as well.
“What an exciting time to be involved with Christian education,” said Dr. Carruthers. “We see the need for it now more than ever, and it is always a joy to partner with these schools. I look forward to all that God will do through these ministries in the years ahead.”
