50 million students attend public schools in America. (Another 4 million attend other schools, such as Christian schools).

81,000 public school buildings exist in the United States—50,000 elementary and 31,000 secondary schools.

3.2 million teachers work in public schools in the United States

640,000 Christians work among the ranks of public school teachers (based on an average of 20 percent)

This averages out to eight Christian teachers per campus in the public school system. This does not include other staff members or employees such as teacher's aides, receptionists, cafeteria workers, janitors, nurses or secretaries. Adding them might raise the average to 15 to 20 per campus.

*These figures come from The Christian Educator's Association, given by Mr. Richard Deckard, National Director, School Administration Network, March 25, 1999.

CrossTalks are guided Bible discussions oriented to the professional person for application to the 40- to 60-hour work setting. Using curriculum developed by David Sunde, Bob Horner and Ron Ralston, CrossTalks equip a person with vision, strategy and training to allow the workplace to become an opportunity for ministry.

Unfortunately, many Christians go to work each week without much thought as to how God could use them at work. Thus their work becomes only "a place to survive," rather than an opportunity. Yet, it is at work where most Christians interact with non-Christians. It is there that they need to witness for Christ by their lives and words.

CrossTalks are heavily application-oriented, and led by qualified men and women who are themselves in the "market place." Outstanding results have been obtained with this approach. Not only have Christians been encouraged in their walk with God, but they are also reaching out effectively to their associates, colleagues, vendors and customers.

We in Southern California were privileged to help create Educator CrossTalks, a far-reaching application of this concept. Educator CrossTalks motivate and equip public school teachers and employees (not students) to have a ministry during their workweek.

These groups meet right on the school campus at a time when teachers and classified staff are not "on the clock." Attendance is totally voluntary, and preparation time for those attending is zero. For those leading, it takes just five to 10 minutes to prepare.

The needs in public schools have become clear in light of such tragedies as Littleton, Colo., and Conyers, Ga. Teachers and staff have two groups with whom they brush shoulders each day: 1) other teachers and classified staff, and 2) students.

Very little has been done to help Christians teaching in the public schools, yet we have found great acceptance and excitement from teaches and staff who have been given the opportunity to have Educator CrossTalks on their campus. Administrators also have been happy to have such groups on their campus. The doors are open, and we should go through those doors.

We'd like to help you start Educator CrossTalks in your school. To get more information on how to do so, contact me, Bob Caddel, and I'll be glad to send you some information.

Bob Caddel
275 W. Hospitality Lane Suite 315
San Bernardino, CA 92408
(909) 379-7798
bobccc@netzero.net