Alumni Feature
Michael Long
As an elementary school teacher, Michael Long loves the "light bulb moment" — the sudden instant when a student grasps a new concept for the first time. And less than a decade into his teaching career, the Biola alumnus has already garnered numerous accolades for his ability to flip the switch.
In November 2007, the California Department of Education recognized Long as a "California Teacher of the Year" — an honor reserved for just five teachers in the entire state. Two months earlier, the Los Angeles County Office of Education had chosen Long for a county "Teacher of the Year" award.
Long credits Biola — where he earned a liberal studies degree, teaching credential and master's degree — with preparing him to be not just an effective teacher, but an effective Christian teacher.
"I was so challenged to know exactly how I was going to share my faith and show the love of Christ as a teacher," said Long, who teaches fourth grade at Carmela Elementary School in Whittier, Calif. "Whether it's in the staff room or whether it's a kid asking me in my class about what I believe — and you'd be surprised how often that happens — I get a constant opportunity to share."
At Biola, he found a challenging curriculum that prepared him for the real world and experienced professors who inspired him to be a better teacher, he said.
"I don't think you're ever going to find a bigger fan of Biola than me," Long said. "I loved the program. I'd do it again."
California Teacher of the Year
State Superintendent of Public Instruction named five remarkable educators as California Teachers of the Year for 2008. Michael Long ('94, M.A. '99), was among the five recognized.