Every five years, Lutheran high schools, elementary schools, and early childhood centers across the United States undergo the process of accreditation through our synods National Lutheran School Accreditation teams. The process is time consuming and takes a strong commitment by the principal or director and the committee that helps with gathering the needed information. So, what is the value and effectiveness of such a process?
As I think about education these days, I support those who have the vision of educating the whole child. Yes, I truly believe we need more of God in our lives, but education is more than just religion. I pray that each child would come to school healthy and learn about practices that would promote healthy lifestyles. I pray that every child would attend school in a safe environment both physically and emotionally (bully free zones). I pray that every child is actively engaged in learning and has a strong connection to the school and the community at large. I pray that every student has the support of a well-qualified individual who values personalized learning. I pray that every child is challenged to do his or her best, to be prepared for college, trade school, or whatever is best for their success.
It is with those thoughts in mind that I want to congratulate the schools in our district that have gone through the accreditation process in the past or are considering the process in the future. The accreditation process, though it may seem difficult, does a great job in pointing out the school’s strengths and weaknesses. Strengths should be celebrated and weaknesses should show the way to becoming better at educating the whole child.
In His Service
Allen Piepenbrink
Mid-South Education Executive
