Education is both a blessing and a challenge. The Bible reminds us, “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them,” Deuteronomy 4:9 NIV.
Teaching is a sacred calling, one that faces constant opposition — economic struggles, social barriers, and geographic limitations. Yet, despite these challenges, God calls individuals to stand in the gap. I am one of those individuals. For years, I have dedicated myself to helping students, ensuring they have not just knowledge but also encouragement, confidence, and hope. Bright Key is one of many ways I have answered that call.
Mark Saliba, mayor of Dothan, Alabama, declared May 13, 2024, as “Bright Key WE SPEAK Book Signing Day” at Slingluff Elementary School in Dothan. More than 60 students in grades 1-6 celebrated the publication of their first poetry collection. It was a joyful occasion attended by Martin Fancher, Gulf States Conference executive secretary, and Marcelo Mansur, Digital Church pastor and director of young adult ministries. While this day marked a milestone for the students, for me it was another reminder of why I continue to serve — because every child deserves to be seen, heard, and given the tools to succeed.
Gulf States Digital Church played a crucial role in supporting Bright Key, partnering with me to pour into students’ lives. Their sponsorship made possible initiatives like the Father Leadership Breakfast, where 70 fathers visited their children’s classrooms, and the Father-Son NBA trip, a special experience that strengthened family bonds. They also helped fund the WE SPEAK book, and provided official T-shirts for students and volunteer tutors. These efforts weren’t just about education; they were about building confidence, nurturing relationships, and showing students that they are valued. I saw this work not as a project with an end date, but as part of a greater mission — one I have been committed to for years.
Research shows that poetry fosters creativity, imagination, and literacy. We are thrilled to celebrate our students’ achievements. We hope this book will be a cherished memory for years to come. But, I know that true impact isn’t measured by one book or one event — it’s measured by the lives changed and the seeds planted for the future. Every poem, every moment of encouragement, every opportunity given to a student is a reflection of the ministry God has called me to.
I believe wholeheartedly that education is a mission field. My ministry is not limited to a single program, school, or year — it is a lifelong calling to uplift, mentor, and serve. Whether through Bright Key or future efforts, I remain steadfast in my commitment to students — helping them to navigate challenges and reach their full potential.
Bright Key is an in-school community tutoring program established 10 years ago, and it’s led by parents and stakeholders, and managed by me, a lifelong Seventh-day Adventist and dedicated servant/leader. I have served as an Adventist Community Services leader, Adventist Youth Society leader, and former E.S. Portis Youth Federation president for South Atlantic Conference. I’m currently employed with Dothan City Schools, and I serve on the Gulf States Conference President’s Executive Board. No matter where God leads me next, one thing is certain — my passion for students will continue to drive my ministry.
For more information, contact me at rojames@dothan.k12.al.us.
Gulf States | May 2025
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