To Give Thanks for Lutheran Educators and Administrators

WHEREAS, The Synod has long cherished the role of Lutheran education in forming faith, developing intellect, and preparing young people for lives of Christian service in church and society; and

WHEREAS, Lutheran educators and administrators, serving in just over 1,700 schools—including early childhood centers, elementary schools, high schools, and universities affiliated with the Synod— are daily engaged in the sacred vocation of teaching the faith and modeling the love of Christ; and

WHEREAS, These faithful servants consistently go above and beyond in nurturing students academically, emotionally, and spiritually, even amidst challenges such as cultural shifts, economic strain, and the global pandemic; and

WHEREAS, Many of these men and women serve with limited resources, offering their time and talent for the sake of the Gospel and the next generation of disciples; and

WHEREAS, The Holy Spirit, through the Word, calls us to “encourage one another and build one another up” (1 Thess. 5:11) and to give “honor to whom honor is owed” (Rom. 13:7); therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention give thanks to God for Lutheran teachers, administrators, and school staff who serve in the mission of Christian education across the Synod; and be it further

Resolved, That congregations, districts, and educational institutions be encouraged to recognize and celebrate the ministry of Lutheran educators, especially during National Lutheran Schools Week, Teacher Appreciation Week, and other appropriate occasions; and be it further

Resolved, That districts, congregations, and educational institutions make good use of the synodwide effort, “Set Apart to Serve” for encouragement and recruitment of prospective Lutheran school teachers; and be it further

Resolved, That congregations and districts encourage potential Lutheran school administrators to take part in the School Leadership Development program (Luth Ed, luthed.org/school- leadership-development-sled/) offered by LCMS School Ministry, making available to all teachers additional continuing education opportunities, including the use of the Concordia University Education Network for teachers to use in the colloquy process; and be it further

Resolved, That districts annually review and set appropriate compensation guidelines as well as adequate health insurance and retirement plans through Concordia Plan Services for their Lutheran school teachers and administrators, strongly encouraging all of their respective congregations or associations with the Synod’s early childhood centers, elementary schools, and high schools to utilize these guidelines and offer these benefits, since as partners in the Gospel, “The laborer deserves his wages” (1 Tim. 5:18); and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod commend the work of LCMS School Ministry and other support organizations which strengthen and encourage Lutheran schools and educators, sharing this resolution widely as a tangible expression of heartfelt gratitude for those who teach and lead in the name of Christ.