Introducing the Lutheran Schools of America

What is the "Lutheran Schools of America?"

The Lutheran Schools of America (LSA) is an exciting program established within the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS) in 2005. Its purpose is to encourage the congregations of the synod currently without a school to establish one, even starting at a preschool level. It is also an encouragement to a church with an established preschool program to expand their school into one with an upper grades offering.

Where did the idea for LSA start?

In 2003, Redeemer Lutheran Church of Scottsdale, Arizona, sent a "memorial" to the synod. It encouraged the ELS to create and support a plan to greatly expand the number of Christian schools within their congregations. They based their memorial upon the wisdom of Proverbs 22:6 - "Train a child in the way he should go and even when he is old he will not turn away from it." The 2005 Synod Convention offered its broad approval for the plan.

What are the goals of LSA?

One of the most amazing components of LSA is its declared numeric goal: to establish two new schools per year within our synod's churches starting in the fall of 2006. That goal is extended over the next 50 years! However, the spiritual and educational goals of LSA schools are far more important than quantitative ones. "Seeking Excellence" is an operational theme for all LSA schools, an excellence guided by the establishment of school curriculums formed within the framework of "Christian classical education."

How does LSA assist a congregation to start a school?

A representative of the Lutheran Schools of America can assist a congregation in the process of considering whether or not a school ministry is best for their congregation. He can also assist in the process of developing leaders from within the congregation's membership. A formal "school feasibility study" can be led by LSA including a demographic study. A congregational campaign to fund a new school can be designed by LSA. It is even possible that financial commitments secured by LSA may be granted to the congregation for a school start. Finally, LSA can arrange for the counsel of professional Christian educators in guiding the details of creating a curriculum, calling a well-trained, certified teacher, building a school, etc.

What does it mean to be a "Prayer Partner?"

Martin Luther once observed, "Prayer is a strong wall and fortress of the church; it is a goodly Christian weapon." Of course, it was this same Luther who declared, "For the sake of the Church, we must have and maintain Christian schools!" LSA seeks the partnership of men and women of God who will commit themselves to pray regularly for the success of the mission of Lutheran Schools of America. Those partnering in this way will receive the LSA newsletter and other regular LSA progress updates. Those interested in becoming a "Prayer Partner" may do so by going to www.LSAELS.org or by expressing such a desire to LSA President, Michael Butterfield at mbutterfield@LSAELS.org.

Read more about becoming a "Prayer Partner."