Kalika Shackelford

My name is Kalika Shackelford and I am the Second grade teacher at Grace Christian School.  I grew up in Grace Christian School, beginning with 3-year-old preschool. I spent less than two of my high school years at Rex Putnam. While there, I realized how much I was missing - the quality education, the relationships, and the teachers. I finished my high school years at Grace Christian, while also attending Clackamas Community College where I was working on my Associate’s degree in Business Administration.

I had always pictured myself in the business world---earning my Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in business and opening my own business.  I was working my way up in a corporation as corporate manager of two stores, and rapidly moving up the corporate ladder. I thought this is where I wanted to be, but God had a different plan for me.

In the spring of 2008, I was asked to fill in as a substitute teacher at Grace Christian School. I had already filled in as a teacher’s assistant, but teaching was not exactly within my comfort zone.  Much to my surprise, I fell in love with teaching.  I felt God speaking to my heart, telling me this is the place HE wanted me to be.  In the summer of 2008, Grace Christian School had an opening in one of the elementary classes. My husband and I prayed every day and night, asking God, “Are You sure?” He reassured us both that this is where He wanted me to be.

This is my second year at Grace Christian and it won’t be my last. I never imagined myself being here but I am thankful for every moment I’ve had in this place. I’ve learned so much and gained so much, and I know I’m right where I should be. My ministry at Grace Christian has been the best time of my life.

mailto:kshackelford@gladstoneaog.org