One project I started when I arrived at Martin Luther Academy was to develop a vision and direction for MLA. I spent time meeting the Pastors, of the four congregations that support MLA, parents, constituents of MLA, board members, faculty and staff. I asked them what they would like to see from MLA in the future and ways we can work together to achieve these areas discussed.
I have learned over the years that when leadership works together and communicates the vision, everyone will have better knowledge and understanding of the direction desired for MLA. We are blessed to have a very broad range of constituents that have interest in the direction of MLA. Throughout the conversations, there were several common areas that continued to arise. These areas were/are: spiritual, academic, population, and facilities. When this information is shared with different groups, it is explained that they are not areas that are being done poorly, but areas that we can improve. Over the past week, parents of alumni have shared the successes their children are having in high school both academically and spiritually. The areas being identified are just areas that we can grow, and that is a part of this vision. MLA needs to continue to grow stronger in these areas as we move forward.
A couple of years ago, I attended a conference on marketing and branding. The big take away for me was, know your niche. It was interesting when I asked other principals what their niche was because they had a hard time identifying it. As I worked through the development of a vision, I also wanted to find our niche. I have been praying for an answer to identify why MLA is appealing to others. I believe that God has put that answer before me through observing others around me. I have discovered that MLA has a family oriented atmosphere. The parents care for each other and our children, the congregations care for MLA, and the students care for each other. Paul tells us in Romans 12:4-5, “For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” I am thankful that even though we are individuals we are one body in Christ, and that He guides and protects us daily.
Blessed to serve MLA and our Lord,