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From Kindergartener to Called: How One School Shaped a Life of Faith
A feature on the Rev. Kristen Koch, alumna of Atonement Lutheran School, Florissant, Missouri Some stories take decades to tell. Rev. Kristen Koch’s begins in August of 1973, when she was baptized at the Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Florissant, Missouri. It winds through a childhood spent in classrooms and pews, a season of…
Read MoreELEA Annual Meeting: Highlights, Updates, and What’s Ahead!
On Tuesday, April 14th, 2026, ELEA staff, Board, and members recently gathered for the annual meeting, bringing together leaders and partners from across the network to reflect on 2025 and look ahead to the year ahead. Some of the key highlights included organizational updates, shared successes, and upcoming opportunities for members. Executive Director Cory Newman…
Read MoreSpotlight on St. Paul’s Lutheran School: A New Chapter Begins
Located in Newark, Delaware, St. Paul’s Lutheran School is stepping into a new season marked by renewal, resilience, and deep faith. After being closed for two years, the school has courageously reopened its doors, welcoming children and families back into a space grounded in love, learning, and purpose. This reopening represents more than just a…
Read MoreSpotlight on Here We Grow Preschool & Childcare Center Living Hope: A Ministry Growing Hearts, Minds, and Spirits
We are super excited to shine our February Spotlight on Here We Grow Preschool & Childcare Center Living Hope, a Christ-centered early childhood ministry serving families in Saukville, WI! As a ministry of Living Hope Lutheran Church, Here We Grow provides a joyful, safe, and nurturing environment where children grow socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually.…
Read MoreLeading with Joy: Rethinking School and Center Leadership
In Lutheran educational settings, we often focus on reducing conflict, improving accountability, and achieving measurable outcomes. These are worthy goals. Cy Wakeman, drama researcher and founder of Reality-Based Leadership, envisions workplaces where drama is dramatically reduced, accountability is the norm, and results are not just expected, but celebrated. In her book No Ego, she reminds…
Read MoreCommunity Bridge-Building Guide for ELCA Schools and Learning Centers
A guide for Pastors, Deacons, Directors, Principals, and other leaders to help strengthen connections between church, school, and family. Welcome to Weekday Educational Ministry Every family that walks through your doors brings unique gifts, experiences, and perspectives that enrich your community. This guide helps you build authentic relationships that honor each family’s journey while creating…
Read MoreNavigating 2025 Challenges: What ELCA Schools & Centers Need to Know
A recent Zywave survey of over 1,000 employers reveals critical insights that directly impact ELCA schools and learning centers. Understanding these trends—and knowing where to find support—can help our school and church community navigate the year ahead. Top Challenges Facing Lutheran Schools in 2025 Economic Uncertainty tops the list, with nearly 60% of employers citing…
Read MoreBuilding Healthy Teams: Tools for Understanding Personality, Communication & Relationships
Leading an ELCA school or learning center means more than managing logistics—it means cultivating communities of grace, collaborative leadership, and healthy relationships rooted in faith. One of the most powerful ways to strengthen your team is by intentionally developing how we understand ourselves and others. At ELEA, we recognize the importance of nurturing not just…
Read MoreClarification in Regard to Dept. of Education Cuts (3.24.25)
Dear ELCA School and Learning Center Leaders, In light of recent discussions regarding potential changes to the U.S. Department of Education, I have provided insights from the Council for American Private Education in an attempt to clarify what these developments might mean for our schools. There has been considerable speculation about the future of the Department…
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