Rounding First Base
Let’s get the Christ Lutheran High School (CLHS) story off the ground and see where God takes this mission!
About 18 months ago, a dedicated group of individuals with a passion for faith, kids, and education came together to launch a pretty big endeavor — starting a Lutheran High School for communities in/around Linn and Benton counties of eastern Iowa. The CLHS board of directors was formed out of the first community forum in Atkins in the fall of 2024. This past year, those individuals have devoted their time and invested their hearts in laying a solid foundation. Here are a few of their accomplishments so far:
established our constitution and bylaws
incorporated with the state of Iowa
enrolled as a registered service organization with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
achieved non-profit status with the IRS
surveyed feasibility stats for Linn and Benton counties
formed mission, vision, and purpose statements
defined an education philosophy and core values
determined a name and a mascot … and more!
This is only the beginning. Over the past six weeks, we have been building connections with pastors and sharing highlights of our progress with area churches. But some of the most important work is still ahead of us:
Defining an education model to prepare students to be strong Christian leaders in all walks of life (CLHS mission).
Recruiting passionate staff to support this mission, and help students discover and develop their unique, God-given talents (CLHS purpose).
… and a multitude of operational details involving handbooks, finances, facilities, calendars (and more!) to ensure a strong start.
We have a lot of work ahead of us (more information to come about the path to completion!), but we want to bring you along on this journey and grow the CLHS family. Thank you for being here! You and your families are the reason we get out of bed in the morning, dreaming about how we can make the biggest impact on the lives of our area youth.
“Those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Please continue to follow our progress, and keep our mission work and the board of directors in your prayers as we eagerly charge forward to cultivate an ever-growing community of students who confidently, courageously, and compassionately make lasting, positive impacts on the lives of those they encounter (CLHS vision).
