Excellent Christian education has always been important, but in these changing times, it is life transformational. According to Barna.com, teens across the country are losing their faith in alarming numbers. Generation Z (people born between 1999 and 2015) is the “first truly ‘post-Christian’ generation.” The number of teens who consider themselves to be atheists is twice as many as the general population.
You might know him as LuHi’s talented sports videographer, filming at sports games and editing highlight reels for students and families. Students may recall his interesting archeological insights that he shares as a guest teacher in theology or history classes. But what you may not realize is that John Rinks’ primary role at LuHi is as an ambassador and storyteller.
Just two years ago, an article about the benefits of in-person learning wouldn’t have needed to appear on this blog. Oh, how much the world has changed! The coronavirus has affected the entire world but certainly has caused more decision fatigue and stress in certain groups, such as teachers, school kids, and their families.
We have been blessed to plan, develop, fund, and see-through such a large construction project to provide the best environment for our students and LuHi families. Beginning with Phase 1 (the football field) and continuing with Phase 2A (new weight room and remodel of Forge classrooms) and Phase 2B (75 parking spots, additional upper floor bathrooms, upgraded lighting, renovated performing arts room, opening of the main corridor). The final plan for Phase 2 is the western expansion that will include a new cafeteria, a new college guidance center, and new classrooms.
What’s Your “Thrive”?
What does a thriving life look like to you? Does it make you think about good fitness and nutrition? Maybe lots of success in your work and educational projects? Landing scholarships, getting top grades, and already saving for your retirement funds in savvy long-term accounts?
Lutheran uses Canvas as our Learning Management System. All students and teachers utilize Canvas for grades, course calendars and test dates, course notes and materials, to-do lists and more. Teachers are required to update course content material for the week every Monday morning. We believe in continuity, which is why you won’t see teachers using different platforms in their class. Canvas is integrated with Google Single On so students only need one username and password to access Canvas, their school email address, and school computers. LuHi aspires towards cohesiveness in the classroom, regardless of the subject matter.
Commitment to student participation is one of the qualities that sets LuHi apart from other schools. With close to seven hundred students, LuHi is large enough to have the resources to challenge students, but small enough for students to excel in academics and multiple activities.
It’s been about two years since we sat down with you and asked some questions. Is the timing right to do this again?
Absolutely. I enjoy a forum to speak candidly about the big picture of Lutheran High School and all the things we are currently working on.
After a student makes it through middle school, sometimes all the parent hopes is for their child to survive high school. But LuHi has a greater vision. “If we put students in the right environment surrounded by the right people where culture matters and Christian worldview is taught, God will work through them,” says Executive Director Dan Gehrke. “I’m amazed at their faiths and I’m amazed at what they accomplish.”
High school is a pivotal point of life; it is both sunshine and storms. It can inspire or shake a foundation of values, self-esteem, knowledge, and even faith. According to Barna Group, three out of every five young Christians leave church either temporarily or permanently after age fifteen. That’s a staggering statistic, and one that LuHi responds to very seriously.
