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2025 Ministry Report

2025 Ministry Report

As we reflect on 2025, I am profoundly grateful for the dedicated community that comprises the Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA). Each visit to our Lutheran schools reaffirms the joy found in our classrooms, where students grow in both knowledge and faith. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, partners, and volunteers, we are honored to continue this vital ministry, grounded in God’s blessings, ensuring that every child in the St. Louis region has access to an excellent, innovative, transformative Lutheran education.

Last year, we granted over $570,000 in scholarships to 673 students across 28 schools, demonstrating our commitment to equipping families for a Christ-centered education. I invite you to visit our website at [lesastl.org/latest-news] to see how we are moving forward together, always keeping our eyes on Jesus as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Looking to the future, we remain focused on strategic growth and academic excellence. As we promote Lutheran education as the best choice, let us foster a community of faith and service. Thank you for being part of this transformative journey.

Serving the Master Teacher,


Libby Gutberlet
CEO, Lutheran Elementary School Association 

Our Ministry Impact

20 Years Of Ministry

12,014 student awards of tuition assistance

$8.2 Million in tuition assistance

39,700 hours of professional development

33 elementary schools + 4 high schools

LESA Serves

39 accredited schools and affiliate members

4 educational partner member elementary schools

4 free standing early childhood center partners

Revenue

Expenses

Educational Resources

STEM Programs

Youth Coding League
5
Schools
12 Teams
$6,750 LESA Support

LEGOs
11 Schools
22 Classes

Student Support/Counseling

1,448 hours
614 students
$10,680 in LESA support

Faculty Development

564 teachers and principals attended 4 professional development workshops for 1,694 hours total training.

86% of attendees reported knowledge gained as a result of attendance
97% of attendees reported the topics were beneficial to them in their ministries



4
teachers attended year-long TEC 21 technology workshops with $2,500 in LESA support.


2
teachers attended STEM certification through Maryville University with $1,000 in LESA support.

“Lutheran Schools are thriving!” — St. Louis Post Dispatch, February 2024

$570,000 in scholarships was awarded to 673 students at 28 schools.

“Lutheran Schools are thriving!” — St. Louis Post Dispatch, February 2024

What is LESA?

LESA is a membership of Lutheran schools in the St. Louis area who work collaboratively to support and enhance Lutheran education as they serve children and their families in their own unique location.

Why choose Lutheran education?

  • Smaller classrooms
  • Highly skilled faculty and staff
  • Small, family atmosphere
  • Traditional academic offerings
  • Support for all students in a safe environment

Board of Directors

Rev. Alan Erdman
Chairman 

Alan Vogt
Vice-Chairman 

Jeff Schmitt
Secretary

John Crumrine
Treasurer

Marilyn Brickler
Chair Emeritus

Dawn Anderson

Jim Eckrich

Rev. David Gruenwald

Dennis Kemper

Amy Klein

Joanne Smith

Kip Starnes

Ananda Baron
Advisory Director

Royce Hartmann
Advisory Director

Vision

Every child in the St. Louis region has access to an excellent, innovative, transformative Lutheran education.

Mission

Equipping families, Lutheran schools and faith communities for dynamic, Christ-centered education.

Values

1. Christian Community Connecting schools, donors and partner ministries to bring Christ to students and families.
2. Relationship-Focused Appreciating generosity and engaging donors with purpose.
3. Academic Excellence Equipping educators to nurture Christian faith and pursue excellence in the teaching-learning experience.
4. Strategic Growth Stewarding endowed investments and leveraging generosity to optimize mission impact.
5. Catalyst Promoting Lutheran school enrollment through strategic marketing efforts and optimizing financial support to families.

Staff

Libby Gutberlet
Chief Executive Officer

Laura Montgomery
Director, Educational Resources

Amee Colvin
Director, Development & Marketing

Maureen Gersman
Director, Operations & Scholarship Programs

Warren Fick
Financial Services

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