This year will fly by fast, but the exponential value of working together will linger for a lifetime as we relish the experiences we have shared and, even more importantly, as our children grow up to model our example. Thank you Good Shepherd and 8th grade parents!
“We have such a great group of parents,” a long-time friend said the other day as we compared notes on how our 8th grade fundraising efforts for Washington D.C. were going. As I hurried on, I couldn’t help but think about what she said and recognize its significance.
“My children have greatly benefited from their experiences at Good Shepherd — but so have I. Many friendships have developed while sharing a bumpy bus ride on a field trip, sitting in the bleachers cheering on our team, or staying up late decorating for a big event at school. I wouldn’t trade these experiences in for anything.
“And now that my oldest is in 8th grade, I’ve witnessed our parents coming together for this final stretch of our children’s junior high education. Parents coming together to work no matter how long or how late; parents donating time, talent and trades; parents showing their love of Christ by supporting Good Shepherd’s mission, our kids and also each other.
“Hebrews 13:15-16 says, ‘With Jesus’ help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of His name. Don’t forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God.’
Thanks for everything you do. I always knew it was the best thing we would ever do for our kids sending them to a Lutheran school. I miss those days but the lessons live on in my children that are no longer children. Thanks for being such a blessing to so many. The lessons we teach our children reach farther and live longer than any of us can ever know.
Good Shepherd Lutheran School has changed my son’s life. He was on a path of social hardship and constant academic struggles. This is our second year at Good Shepherd and he is on track academically. He has made friends and feels accepted by his peers. And the teachers and staff have shown my child so much love and acceptance, I will be eternally grateful. We are active Christians, but we are not of the Lutheran faith. I never have felt like I was looked down upon for not being a Lutheran, nor were my children treated any differently. I’m truly amazed at their sincere passion for Christ and their excellence in academics. Thank you Good Shepherd!
As parents of an eighth grader and sixth grader, who have attended Good Shepherd since preschool, our family has found that Good Shepherd Lutheran School provides a wonderful environment for our children to learn, grow and thrive. The school is committed to providing a quality Christian education for each student. Through the small class size, challenging academic program, and the commitment of its faculty and staff, we have no doubt that our children are being prepared to enter the even more challenging world of high school.
Regardless of religious denomination, we have always felt we are part of a school family. Good Shepherd has provided an educational home that far exceeds meeting the needs of one particular faith. We are grateful to the teachers, staff, families, and friends that are committed to providing an exceptional educational experience. The investment we have made into our children’s education and school experience has never been questioned, they are receiving the best.
I can’t say enough about this school and how much it means to all of us. Judy and Kathy are trusted members of our family that take such good care of our children, and the parents. Mr. Mayhew welcomes our children to school each day outside, rain or shine. He is available for questions, concerns, and always puts his students and teachers at the top of the list. The teachers are professionals that understand each child is unique and a blessing. They encourage independence and promote confidence. My 9 and 10 year old describe their teachers as, “helpful, intelligent, encouraging, fun and exciting.” My 14 year old describes her teachers as, “inspirational.”
The oldest child always seems to pave the way for the younger siblings. However, each child is different and offers their own perspective of what their school means to them. My younger son and daughter focus on their friendships, relationship with their teachers, and recess. However, we realize they are learning so much more in a safe, nurturing environment. They both love their school and look forward to each year.
My oldest daughter is in eighth grade now and preparing for high school. We have had several conversations reflecting on her years at Good Shepherd. This has made us realize the impact the school has made on her life. She loves her school and will forever refer to Good Shepherd as “my school”. She has had the opportunity to learn more about technology than we could have every taught her. Her independence, studying habits, organization skills, commitment to explore her faith and responsibility continue to amaze us. She discovered a sport she loves in 5th grade thanks to the athletic programs beginning at an early age. Her true passion for art has continued to be fostered with projects and assignments that encourage creativity. Most importantly, the values we hold within our family have also been instilled at school.
My family began its partnership with Good Shepherd Lutheran School in 2005. This partnership has faithfully grown and we currently have three children attending. Our story of choosing the right school is not a simple one. Not being from the Collinsville area, I had no plan past pre-school. A search for a small, faith based school began. We did several school visits, interviews, and listened to many parent referrals. I think we knew from the moment the phone calls and visits began Good Shepherd was where we felt most at home. We are not members of Good Shepherd church, in fact we are Catholic. Finding a school that practiced our faith was not a priority, however finding an environment that allowed our children to explore their faith was. Looking back several years later we definitely made the best decision for our family.
For me, Good Shepherd (Lutheran School) served as a safe place. It provided me with a great work ethic, amazing friends, and most importantly, a solid understanding of God’s Word. It started me off with a good head on my shoulders, and a tight friend group that has kept me on the right track all throughout high school. Not only did we make lifelong friendships here, we made memories that will forever make us laugh and smile… I do not know where I would be or who I would be without the friends I made and the things I learned at Good Shepherd. For that, I am very thankful.