Counsels for the Church - Ellen G. White

Before men can be truly wise, they must realize their dependence upon
God, and be filled with His wisdom. God is the source of intellectual as well
as spiritual power. The greatest men who have reached what the world
regards as wonderful heights in science are not to be compared with the
beloved John or the apostle Paul. It is when intellectual and spiritual power
are combined that the highest standard of manhood is attained. Those who do
this, God will accept as workers together with Him in the training of minds.
The most important work of our educational institutions at this time is to
set before the world an example that will honor God. Holy angels are to
supervise the work through human agencies, and every department is to bear
the mark of divine excellence.
Qualifications of a School Teacher
Secure a strong man to stand as principal of your school, a man whose
physical strength will support him in doing thorough work as a
disciplinarian; a man who is qualified to train the students in habits of order,
neatness, and industry. Do thorough work in whatever you undertake. If you
are faithful in teaching the common branches, many of your students could
go directly into the work as canvassers, colporteurs, and evangelists. We
need not feel that all workers must have an advanced education.
In selecting teachers, we should use every precaution, knowing that this
is as solemn a matter as the selecting of persons for the ministry. Wise men
who can discern character should make the selection; for the very best talent
that can be secured is needed to educate and mold the minds of the young,
and to carry on successfully the many lines of work that will need to be done
by the teachers in our church schools. No person of an inferior or narrow cast
of mind should be placed in charge of one of these schools. Do not place
over the children young, inexperienced teachers who have no managing
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