Transitions

The “T-Word” has arisen again at Trinity Lutheran, this time on the school side.  Our school principal for the past year, Carol Willis, has decided not to seek another year contract with us  (in large part because of the daily drive from the San Fernando Valley), so we are again about to enter the process of searching for new permanent leadership for our school...  beginning August 1st…  as we get ready for the start of a new school year.  There’s GOT to be a better time of year to make these transitions!

In all of this, we have a MAJOR blessing. Pastor Sherman Korshavn, who was principal of the school ministry here from 1970-92, has graciously come to our aid and will serve as Interim Principal.  He will be on site generally three days a week (some weeks more), assisted by Kathy Rutt, who will, in addition to her continuing duties as Preschool director, serve as Vice Principal when Pastor Korshavn is off campus.  Fran Sanders, our Before and After School Care Director, our School board under Carol Wright’s leadership, and our school office staff, Lisa Herrmann and Tammie Rattler, will continue to provide support and stability.  And somehow I fit into the mix as well… 

Putting this transition team together has been a high priority for us over the past week or so, and it is wonderful to see it coming together.  New teachers are coming on board, new families are coming in and returning ones are signing up, and I am confident that our school ministry will continue to grow and be strengthened during this transition year.  We are already seeing signs of increased enrollment, and enthusiasm is building (or is that fear I sense?) as we enter the month of August.

Another staff transition involves our custodian/sexton Kevin Guerrero.  Kevin has served the church/school for several years and many of our church members and teachers have gotten to know him well. 

As I write this we are interviewing teachers, processing applications, planning schedules, meeting new people, and are very glad it is only the beginning of August. 

Please keep the staff of our church and school in your prayers as we enter into this important time.  I am convinced that the school is not a separate entity unto itself, but is part and parcel of our church.  As I explained to a teacher interviewing with us this week, the whole reason our church has a school is to introduce young people and their families to Jesus Christ, and to help them be prepared for life as young people of God living in a sometimes difficult world.  What an exciting challenge!

God’s blessings and peace

Pastor Larry Becker