Blog
A Beautiful Picture of the Kingdom:
Why Differentiation Matters
When I first pursued my master’s degree, I wasn’t planning to become an administrator.
At the time, I was a classroom teacher, passionate about figuring out how to meet the needs of all learners. I grew up with two incredible role models in the field—my mom, a special education coordinator at a local Christian school who also worked for All Belong, and my dad, a school psychologist. I had access to some of the best resources and examples imaginable, and they both encouraged me to pursue my master’s in Differentiation.
I’m so thankful I did.
That degree didn’t just shape the way I teach—it shaped who I am as both an educator and an administrator. It helped me to see more clearly the beauty and importance of a diverse and inclusive community. Every child is unique, and every child belongs.
Friday’s Unified Game reminded me of that truth again.
The next day, Ruthanne texted me this message that put it perfectly:
“Max is reffing for the Special Olympics today. I really don’t think my kids would be so willing and capable of loving people of all abilities as well as they do without the exposure and opportunities at NPC. We have a good thing going, and I am so grateful for it.”
And she’s right.
We do have a good thing going at NPC. We have a special staff—people who truly see and value all of God’s children.
This year, I stepped in to coach our freshman girls’ basketball team halfway through the season. One of my assistant coaches is a freshman from Cornerstone. After our game on Friday, I invited her to stay and cheer with me at the Unified Game. She could only stay for the first quarter, but halfway through she turned to me and said:
“I wish my Christian school had this. It’s awesome.”
She comes from a smaller Christian school in the area, and her words were such a powerful reminder of the privilege we have at NPC—to teach and love all of God’s children. Not every school does. I know that can mean more work. Some days, it makes things harder. But what we’re doing together is a beautiful picture of the Kingdom of Heaven.
I’m so thankful for that—and for all of you.
Thank you for always going the extra mile to meet the needs of our learners. You model what it means to be Christ’s hands and feet, welcoming and celebrating every student. And when we get it right—even just for a moment—it’s transformational.
I want to share four truths that have anchored me in this work. They come from The Philosophy of Differentiation by Carol Ann Tomlinson, and they sum up so well the heart of what we strive for at NPC:
1. Diversity is normal and valuable.
In a differentiated classroom, diversity isn’t something to fix or avoid—it’s something to celebrate. Students bring a rich tapestry of experiences and characteristics. Our job as teachers is to honor those differences, not erase them.
2. Every child has hidden and extensive capacity to learn.
Standardized test scores and grades only tell part of the story. Every student can learn and grow. Sometimes, their greatest strengths are just beneath the surface, waiting for a teacher to notice and nurture them.
3. It’s the teacher’s responsibility to be the engineer of student success.
Growth doesn’t happen by accident. As educators, we must intentionally plan for the success of all our students. That includes those with IEPs, those learning English, and those facing hard things at home. It’s on us to create the conditions where they can thrive.
4. Educators should be champions for every student who walks through our doors.
That means advocating for the quiet students, the ones who push our buttons, the high-flyers, and the overlooked. Every single child deserves a champion. We get to be that for them.
At NorthPointe Christian, we’ve been entrusted with a unique calling—to see, love, and teach all of God’s children. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Thanks for being in this with me.
With gratitude,
Megan Willink
Middle School Principal
