Enter a new debate, now on center stage. STEM is its name. Short for a national movement to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in K-12 students, STEM has gotten a lot of press lately as the golden solution to saving America as a leading economic nation. It's true America's students lack in the area of STEM-related college degrees, being out-educated by nations like India, China, and others.

Not surprisingly, the policies of the K-12 public education system trickle down to other education circles. At the very least, these policies get educators in the private school system talking. That gets us wondering, what should the Christian school's role be in all this?

Should STEM be pressed down on students because careers in this area make more money? Is this simply a limiting approach the government is taking toward dictating the future of America, while disregarding the value of other careers such as the arts, music, literature, history, business, civil service, films, acting, and many others?

A recent survey by Microsoft says 93% of parents think STEM is a priority, but only 49% think it's a top priority for the country. Less than 24% said they would spend extra money to help their children excel in math and science. Talk about putting money where your mouth is. This survey shows a glaring disconnection between what parents think and the politicians think is needed for the future.

As we ask ourselves about worth, money, and the future, the difference between public policies and God's direction seems clear. The world values what's on the outside, while God looks at the heart. Maybe the question shouldn't be about STEM at all, but instead, how God designs each student to be unique.

As Christian educators, we have the freedom to teach students how to discern what God's will is for their lives. Focusing on the students more than the outcome will benefit not only your school—but their whole future. After all, who says that painters, violinists, and firefighters aren't necessary and love doing their jobs (especially if that's God's will for their lives)?

A nation full of mathematicians would be quite boring. Moreover, it would be a tragedy to spoil the beautiful diversity of mankind's talents. STEM should only be promoted if it's what a student loves and feels led to pursue.

Your challenge? Foster the gifts God has given your students, and not what the world says is important. True value will follow.

How do you grow the God-given talents in your students? Tell us.