Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6
Today is the first day of school for Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Our new superintendent, Dr. Feagins, is making tough decisions. The school board has four new members. Twelve schools had to dismiss early today because of HVAC issues. Many private schools open this week and more open next week.
Lord, we come to you tonight with the hopes that accompany a new season, a new school year. We pray for the teachers and staff that they see the best in each child and work to raise them up to their highest potential. We pray for the students, grant them courage and boldness in tackling challenges. Protect them on their way to and from school. Protect them in school. Lord, may the Holy Spirit be present in the halls and classrooms, guiding young minds to wise decisions.
We pray for new leadership in Dr. Feagins. We pray for her success in the role and for the definition of success that we should measure. Lord, keep kids in the classroom. Halt the truancy. Stop the violence. Lord, remove obstacles from learning for our students.
We pray for the HVAC systems to be fixed by tomorrow morning at Chickasaw, Sherwood, Douglass, American Way, and Treadwell middle schools, Manassas, Sheffield, Booker T Washington, and Dexter, Snowden, and Whitney elementary schools. Lord, prepare for these students a safe and comfortable building conducive to learning.
We pray for the new school board members, Natalie McKinney, Tamarques Porter, Sable Otey, and Towanna Murphy, that they seek you for guidance in their new roles. Lord, bless this body and be in the middle of their decision-making as they provide oversight to the district.
Lord, bless the parents. Sustain them. Help them rise early to get their children ready and labor into the night. Encourage them. May their concerns for their children be heard. Keep them involved in their child’s education.
We pray all these things in Your name, Amen.