The theme for this year's conference is taken from our state nickname

New Jersey is the Garden State. 

Welcome to the Garden State, fellow gardeners. ​

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"Teachers are seed planters. Seed planters spend hours sweating to clear fields, break up rocky soil, and prepare difficult ground

for new life. Before they begin planting, they plan their work by studying the environment. They use specialized tools and equipment, customizing the materials to maximize crop yield. Once the seedling is planted, they nurture it, watering it and watching the weather, fertilizing, and constantly adapting to changing conditions. [...] 

Your job is to be faithful with the work you’ve been given, even if you never see the full results. [...]

As a seed-planting teacher, you pour all of your energy into getting the seedling into the ground and nurturing it throughout its beginning stages of life—but you may never actually see it bloom. Sometimes you may get to see evidence of little sprouts peeking through the dirt, but you probably won’t be there to see whether or not the plant flourishes.

Your job is to be faithful with the work you’ve been given, even if you never see the full results."

-Kate Laitkep, Revive our Hearts

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But far more important than nurturing academic, social and other growth:

 

Our great Creator gave us His written Word of truth,

The comfort of the aged, the guide of early youth.

This precious seed is scattered  by those who labor here:

O may it oft be watered by God the Spirit's care!

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