“I love teaching in an environment where I can freely share my faith and encourage my students to seek a personal relationship with God.” - Karla Bower

My son started first grade when the Lower School opened. I became more involved with the school by volunteering and substituting. God made the journey complete when I was offered positions in kindergarten, second, and third grades.

What post-secondary schools did you attend? Degrees held?

I graduated from Roanoke College with a BA in criminal justice and sociology. I obtained my teaching certification for PK-6 from UVA.

What year did you start teaching/working at Faith Christian School?

I began teaching at Faith Christian School in 2008.

Have you taught or been involved in schools somewhere else prior to FCS? If so, where, and how long?

I homeschooled my son for kindergarten.

What are your hobbies or things you enjoy outside of the school?

I love to grow in Bible knowledge by listening to Christian podcasts. I also enjoy baking for my friends and neighbors, reading mysteries, and going for long walks with my husband.

What do you find most compelling or distinct about Christian classical education? 

I love how God is presented through every subject and a child’s natural desire to wonder and question is encouraged. I homeschooled my son using classical methods as I waited for the Lower School to open. He enrolled in first grade the next year.

What or who inspired you to work in education? 

I remember watching my mom prepare lessons to teach Sunday School each week. I loved being her little helper! She was also a JK teacher for over 20 years and modeled what it meant for a teacher to love her students.

If you have a "life verse" or a verse that is ministering to you right now, what might it be?

I’ve always loved Jeremiah 29:11-13. As I’ve matured, verse 13 means the most to me: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”