Chaplain Garcia Barnswell-Schmidt

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, University of Florida; Master of Divinity, Sewanee: The University of the South  
Length of time teaching: 7 years

 

How do you feel you can help students to “Start Here. Go Anywhere.”?
Individually we ascribe to varying beliefs and values, but if we can learn how to respectfully be in each other’s company, then this helps to lay the foundation for the celebration of our collective experiences, despite our perceived differences. We learn so much about who we are when we are with others. Coming together every morning in worship allows us to truly practice living in community. This is not just a skill that is necessary for elementary or high school. It is a skill that is necessary when one wants to become a valuable member of our global community.

 

What experiences or people have had the most influence on you?
While at the University of Florida, I was making plans for grad school; my intention was to practice family law. Before making that decision final, I had the amazing opportunity to work with three exceptional priests (The Rev. Dr. Nancee Martin, the Rev. Dennis O’Neill, and the Rev. Harold Ritchie). My mentorship with these individuals allowed me to recognize the calling on my life to help illuminate the love of God for His people. I couldn’t be happier being allowed to live out that calling each day at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy.    

 

What do you love about teaching? And about teaching at Holy Trinity?
I have come to value the supportive environment that exists at our school. There is a genuine desire to help others and it’s contagious. I have always found that if I am ever in need, someone (whether it is staff, faculty or a parent) is there to lend a helping hand, and if they cannot, then they will point me in the direction of someone who can. It really does feel like a family here.

 

What are some of your interests and passions outside of the classroom?
I love to travel. I try to do at least two trips per year. One of my favorite places to visit is San Francisco. With fantastic weather and great sites, it’s always a blast to go back year after year.

 

What are your hopes for your program at Holy Trinity?
I love music, whether I’m listening to it or making it. I believe without it, the world would just be blah. It is a language that is so expressive that words are not enough to describe it in totality. That being said, I love to add music to our chapel services and I always encourage my students to use music as an expression of prayer. My hope is that through music and play, students can fully engage in worship and be enticed to experience the multi-varied presence of God.

 

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received or could receive as a teacher?
I have received a few, but the best ones that have stuck with me are those where the parents have communicated that their children, after learning about something in chapel, take that information home and try to teach the rest of the family.