Navigating 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 it as their primary concern. New federal policies, inflation, and budget constraints create difficult decisions about tuition, facilities, and staff compensation for ELCA schools and centers.
Rising Costs continue to strain budgets. Inflation (64.11%) and healthcare costs (42.49%) are particularly challenging, with healthcare expected to increase 7-8% in 2025. This forces difficult decisions about benefits and compensation packages.
Compliance Challenges affect more than one-quarter of employers. Schools, centers, and congregations must navigate changing employment laws, safety requirements, and evolving diversity policies while maintaining their ELCA identity.
Attracting and Retaining Educators remains critical, with nearly 60% of employers struggling with talent management. ELCA schools and centers compete with both educational institutions and secular employers offering higher compensation.
Strategies for Success
Successful organizations are implementing five key strategies that align well with our values:
- Employee Engagement: Flexible work arrangements and recognition programs
- Competitive Compensation: Adjusting salaries to remain competitive
- Learning and Development: Mentoring, career pathing, and skills development
- Improved Onboarding: Enhanced orientation programs for new staff
- Skills-Based Hiring: Looking beyond traditional qualifications
Despite challenges, 76% of employers have posted job openings or hired new employees recently, indicating cautious optimism and the importance of strategic workforce planning.
ELEA Support: Free Resources for Members
ELEA members, through our partnership with Nancy Bond Insurance Services, have access to insurance benefits and comprehensive Zywave resources to address these challenges:
- Insurance Resources: Life, long-term disability, vision, dental, free AD&D, EAS, and value-added services.
- HR Support: Templates and compliance guidance
- Compliance Updates: Regular updates on regulatory changes
- Policy Templates: Ready-to-use, customizable policies and employee handbook builder
- Training Materials: Resources for staff development
These tools help your program stay compliant, manage costs effectively, and focus on its educational mission.
Moving Forward
While 2025 presents challenges, ELCA schools have unique strengths in their commitment to community, service, and holistic education. By staying informed, utilizing available resources, and maintaining focus on mission, our schools and centers can thrive.
Take Action: If you’re an ELEA member, review the insurance benefits and access your free Zywave resources today by contacting Jennifer Bond, [email protected], for access. Non-members can explore ELEA membership to discover how our resources and community support can strengthen your educational ministry.
Together, we can navigate these challenges while continuing to provide transformative Christian education.