Recruiting for Mission: What MK Schools Can Learn from a Veteran Educator

Recruiting teachers for missionary schools is no small task. It requires more than just filling vacancies – it demands a deep understanding of the mission, the people, and the purpose. Tim Cook, a former MK school superintendent, offers a wealth of insight into what makes recruitment effective and sustainable. His reflections are both practical and inspiring, and they offer a roadmap for schools looking to strengthen their teams.

1. Start with the Right People

According to Tim, the best recruits often come from within. Alumni – those who have lived the experience – are the strongest candidates. They understand the culture, the challenges, and the rewards of teaching in a missions context.

But beyond background, Tim emphasizes heart. Teachers must be deeply committed to the Great Commission. They need to see their role not just as educators, but as active participants in spreading the gospel through their work. Passion for students and a clear sense of calling are non-negotiables.

2. Leadership Must Cast the Vision

Recruitment doesn’t stop with finding the right people. It continues with how the school presents itself. Tim urges administrators to clearly and consistently communicate the school’s gospel-centered vision. This isn’t just about branding; it’s about identity.

He also recommends creating high-quality multimedia resources that staff can use during home assignments. These tools help tell the school’s story and invite others to join in. Parent testimonies, in particular, can be powerful in showing the real impact of the school’s mission.

3. Keep the Mission in Focus

Sustaining a missional culture requires intentionality. Tim suggests several ways to keep the vision alive:

• Invite parents to speak at school events.

• Encourage staff to visit families in their ministry settings.

• Involve students in their parents’ ministries.

• Pray regularly for the ministries represented in the school community.

• Promote first-hand mission experiences, such as adopting an unreached people group.

These practices not only build community but also remind everyone (students, staff, and supporters) why the school exists.

This kind of leadership and clarity can transform recruitment from a logistical challenge into a spiritual opportunity. As Tim’s experience shows, when schools align their recruitment with their mission, they don’t just find teachers – they find partners in ministry.