John McFadden
Second Grade Teacher
JMcFadden@NeighborhoodChristian.org

Since 1993 I have been the second grade teacher at Neighborhood Christian, and I couldn't be more sure that I'm right where God wants me to be. Working with second graders is a special treat. They continually amaze me with their insights and questions. It is really fun to see them learn and grow. Sometimes it's like watching little lights go on all over the room.

Some folks around here call me "the Bug Guy" It's not because I love bugs so much or know so much about them (although I do think they are fascinating); it's just because the second graders have some rather unusual classroom pets: giant Madagascan hissing cockroaches.

Drawing and painting have always been more than a hobby with me. I have shown my work in many galleries and art exhibits including the State Fair. I like to keep painting, but it's not always easy to carve out the time to do it. I studied to be an art teacher and I like to let my students experiment with different art forms. I love to see what the kids will do when they try out new art materials or techniques - like working with clay or making paper.

My wife, Jeri, and I have been married for many years and we have two grown children, Emily and Brian. We have loved being able to travel together as a family. A few years back I have was also blessed to be able to share the Gospel as part of a short-term mission trip to Siberia, Russia with the International School Project.

I love to listen to music, especially some of the Christian music that my fellow teacher, Mr. Lanning, shares with me from time to time. I have been playing the bass guitar and I've really been enjoying playing with our worship team at church and for our school chapel. I have also been able to play some for our Christmas program and end of the year graduation and awards ceremony.

My favorite Bible verse changes from time to time. But Ephesians 2:4,5 is always at the top of my list- "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions -- It is by grace you have been saved."