Warm greetings from Walther!
As we begin the fourth quarter—aka “the homestretch”—of the 21-22 school year, and make plans for graduation, prom, Summer School and even next school year, I’d like to take a step back and look at the big picture of why Walther is here. On the surface, it can seem like a silly question. We are here to educate our students, right? Just like we have been doing since 1954, right?
That is certainly part of it, but from time to time it is useful to remember the “why.” Our Strategic Planning Committee recently asked those big questions, and out of that process came a new Mission Statement:
“Walther Christian Academy is a culturally diverse and inclusive Christian middle and high school, rooted in the Lutheran tradition. Walther nurtures and prepares learners to fulfill their unique God-given potential through academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service, leadership and enrichment opportunities.”
I love this statement. It is a strong affirmation our values; we are Lutheran and Christian, and we see our diversity as an asset. It also answers the “why”: Walther exists to show our students that God has made each one of them unique. Our teachers help each individual learner discover his or her potential. Our students are academically prepared for college and life. Their faith lives are nurtured. They are shown the value of service and given leadership opportunities. They explore all of their talents and interests through sports, music, drama, and the many other opportunities they have both inside and outside the classroom. Our students leave Walther knowing Christ and being well-prepared for what God has in store for their lives. That is why we are here—and, with your prayers and support, why we will continue to be here for generations to come!
Tim Bouman
Head of School/Principal