MOST EDUCATORS can relate to the waves of anxiety that wash over us on the first day of school. While we feel excited to see friends again, get back into the swing of teaching, and shine for Jesus, the fear still seems to find a way to seep into our minds. Hence, the unfamiliarity of the new school year often brings negative thoughts that can easily overpower the anticipation of the new beginning. In no time, anxiety and negative thinking can begin to control our mindset.

When we struggle with this, God doesn’t want us to battle our negative mindsets alone. Instead, He wants us to go to Him. Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you” (NIV). He is strong and mighty. We can trust Him. When uncertainty rattles our minds, we can remind ourselves of these facts, taking our anxious thoughts captive. 

What takes their place? His perfect peace that keeps us when we learn to trust in our amazing, faithful God.

However, change doesn’t always include anxiety. Sometimes we simply look forward to new beginnings… 

I’m excited to announce a welcome and wonderful change beginning with the 2026 Winter Teachers of Vision issue. For over a year, the editorial and design teams have been working on a redesign for TOV. The last redesign took place in 2017, so we are long overdue for this upgrade. While we will continue to provide our readers with biblically-based content that encourages, equips, and empowers you to minister in your schools, we plan to add more content about CE, tell members’ stories, change up some of the standing columns, and update our look. 

So, please pray for divine inspiration and wisdom as we finalize the redesign, and join us as we thank God with anticipation for the new ways He will use this publication to bless our readers.