Academic Excellence

From: Marlene Lund
Date: Summer 2009
Subject: Director's Corner

Being someone who grew up when computers in the home were still a dream, I still marvel at what a difference and change they have made and are continuing to make in shaping our society. I've been a Lutheran school educator for the past 35 years and many students have passed through my classroom. The fun part of computer technology is that some of those now 30 and 40 year old students are tracking me down through Google or Facebook. One of my very first students just found me and sent this e-mail which I thought I'd share.

"I hope this email finds you well. You were the topic of conversation recently on Facebook and it was a pleasant walk down memory lane. While it's been more than 30 years since you were our 5th grade teacher, you've remained a positive influence for many of us. The blog prompted me to Google you and I am pleased to learn that you have continued your profession and passion for teaching and making a difference for generations of children. I'm now beginning my own family and thinking of the education I want my children to have. I was sad to learn of the closing of Queens Lutheran on 37th street, but I am seriously considering QLS (formerly Grace). While I attend Christmas service at Trinity 'almost' every year, it does not feel the same knowing that the school next door no longer exists. I received a great education at QLS but beyond that, my experience there set the stage for the rest of my career. I am just about to complete my MBA midlife, and I contribute some of the drive in part to my QLS experience. I still remember the D you gave me in Math, and while it's still not my strong point, all is forgiven :-)."

I can't tell you what a smile and a flood of memories e-mails like this bring to me. I can still picture a little blond girl with a big smile and bright blue eyes who was one of 37 students in my 5th grade classroom. What a privilege it has been for me to touch the lives of these children and to be touched back. E-mails like the one above, convince me more and more of the urgency which faces us as our schools and churches in New York and other urban areas around the country face closure. Our Lord Jesus served the people first, feeding, healing and loving them. Our schools and churches do the same. The LSA's mission statement to serve, support and represent Lutheran schools assisting them to provide quality Christ-centered education continues to be of the utmost importance. Our schools provide a place where children learn and grow and become productive citizens of our country and the world. As we continue to work to achieve that mission I ask that you remember our schools and the LSA in your prayers and that where possible you continue to support us with your generous gifts. We owe the children of the present and future the opportunity to experience an education such as the one referenced above!

Marlene Lund, Past Executive Director

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