Reach
UP IN OUT
A C A M PA I G N F O R LU T H E R A N H I G H S C H O O L
MISSION S TAT E M E N T Empowered by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Lutheran High School nurtures spiritual, academic, and personal growth, equipping students for lives of Christian service.
VISION S TAT E M E N T
We envision utilizing God’s blessings in partnership with our families, congregations, and community to be a dynamic leader in academic excellence and Christian service.
“I’m excited about the future of Lutheran High School! This campaign is good news for our students and community! Ultimately, it’s about sharing the Good News for generations to come!” Rev. Chuck Schlie, Campaign Pastor
Reach
UP IN OUT
A Campaign for Lutheran High School
Dear Friends of Lutheran High School, lty, itude to you - the founders, families, facu I write this letter with a deep sense of grat n of visio ed ity members - who carr y forward a shar staff, alumni, Association and commun d cate dedi ether, we are preparing them for lives hope for our young men and women. Tog ays, llence. Ever y day as I walk the school hallw to spiritual, academic and physical exce hing ol (LHS) in action: serving lunch, coac I witness your love for Lutheran High Scho step and ring on special committees. You see a need sports, helping in the office or voluntee up to address it! five-week the future of the school we love. After a Now, let us reach even higher to secure tegic Stra our Board of Director’s four-point planning study this fall and in concert with g the chin and the physical campus, we are laun Plan for enrollment, academics, funding ce of rien expe paign. Our goal is to improve the Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out Capital Cam rise. to s inue for the future as our enrollment cont current students and prudently prepare llment growing school community. Student enro Today, LHS is blessed with a vibrant and the for a projected increase of almost 10% has jumped by 20% in the last 5 years, with ds current students to 380! With these tren 2018-2019 school year alone – from 345 y expect tivel community as well, we can conserva holding true in our member schools and ard curve. enrollment to continue its healthy upw
HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dr. Craig Ernstmeyer
PRINCIPAL
Jon Bernhardt
DIRECTOR OF ACTIVITIES AND DEVELOPMENT Dr. Doug Kuhlmann
STAFF CHAIR Ed Staude
CAMPAIGN PASTOR Rev. Chuck Schlie
HONORARY CHAIRS
Scott and Carla Rutledge Jeff and Sandy Von Deylen
GENERAL CHAIRS
Glenn and Laura Mahnken
CAMPAIGN CABINET
Bill and Joy Adams Bryan and Melissa Blackford Brian and Ann Bredensteiner Matthew and Ashley Birk Russ and Dana Demien Lew and Carol Fruend Mick and Tonya Goslin Eric and Cathy Jost J.T. and Maria Norville Anthony and Cherie Osborne William and Julie Turner Dave and Tammy Zilz
PRAYER CHAIRS
Rick and Elizabeth Fruend
SPECIAL EVENT CHAIRS
ity, us move forward in faith as one commun As we celebrate 37 years as a school, let and ksgiving , Reaching In for His guidance Reaching Up to God in praise and than iples of Jesus Christ. Reaching Out to serve one another as disc ything y; in the words of St. Paul, “…excel in ever Let us serve with conviction and generosit excel you that estness, and in our love for you—see – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earn in this act of grace also.” (2 Cor. 8:7) LHS n, no matter the amount, will ensure that Your prayerful sacrifice to this campaig future for eran education to our children now and can continue to provide excellent Luth generations to come. In His Service and with my deepest grat
itude,
Jeff and Jackie Bretsch Family Steve and Christine Foshage Mike and Kim Hannegan Family
DEVELOPMENT COUNSEL Steier Group
Dr. Craig Ernstmeyer, Head of School hstcharles.com 63376 P 636.928.5100 lutheranhig 5100 Mexico Road St. Peters, Missouri
“LHS thrives in providing a high quality Christian education for the youth of St. Charles County. The need to expand and update facilities to serve an expanding student population is essential to our mission. By reaching up to our Lord, reaching in to provide the best education, and reaching out to share these blessings, together we can continue to proclaim Jesus to the greater community.” Jon Bernhardt, LHS Principal
LHS
History
1980 LHS vision begins with six churches of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as extensions of their elementary schools. 1982 LHS opens with 12 freshmen and 5 sophomores in a trailer at Holy Cross, O’Fallon. 1985 First senior class of 5 graduates! 1987 With 78 students, the First Baptist Church provides space to LHS for a semester while the permanent school is under construction – the lockers were milk crates in the hallway!
1986 First ‘full-fledged’ computer class begins with donation of 5 computers. 1989 Groundbreaking held for the new building dedicated on January 14 of the following year.
1996 With 230 students, LHS adds a new commons and classrooms to accommodate current needs and future growth.
2006 LHS serves 350 students and a new stadium and athletic field.
2011 Every student is using an iPad and college-prep block scheduling is introduced.
2015 LHS Board of Directors establishes critical targets for enrollment, academics, funding model and campus. Summer 2017 Campus site survey, soils report, building floor plan new expansion renderings are completed. 2017-2018 LHS embarks on Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out Capital Campaign. Summer 2018 Construction on expansion and renovations targeted to begin.
Fall 2017 LHS conducts a planning study to gauge support for a capital campaign. More than 86 percent of respondents support a capital campaign for expansion and renovation of the facilities.
Summer 2019 New construction expected to conclude.
a ta .
KEY FACTS
By the Numbers CLASS OF 2017 89% Attending a four-year college or university Elsberry
11% Attending a 2-year school
Foley 1 Troy 1
$3 million Scholarship dollars accepted
Winfield 2
25.2 Average ACT score (nearly 4 points above state average)
Old Monroe 1
3.32 Cumulative GPA
Wright Wentzville City St. Charles 2 3 1 55 142 Foristell Warrenton Lake 18 St. Peters 72 Saint Louis O’Fallon
1 Jonesburg
697 College credits earned while at LHS Hazelwood 1 4 Florissant
2 Maryland Heights
International Students: China (2) Vietnam (1)
Defiance 5
4
27 Zip codes where they live
1 University City
58 Churches where they are members
St. Louis
Chesterfield
CURRENT STUDENTS
Overland
7
2 Ballwin
6.4% From minority backgrounds 19.8% Receiving need-based financial aid 74% Are Lutheran
LHS HOME AND FAMILY
CURRENT STUDENTS’ HOMETOWNS
345 Current enrollment 380 Projected enrollment for 2018-2019 school year – a 10% increase! 34 Faculty members 70% Faculty members with master’s or advanced degree 17 Average class size 20 Classrooms 42 Extra-curricular and service-oriented programs including athletic teams, Robotics, scholar bowl, drama, choir, orchestra, Key Club, FCA, and NHS 21 Sports programs 10 Performances produced by theater and vocal music department annually 9 Lutheran churches in the Association
classrooms and gymnasium
Planning BACKGROUND In Spring 2015, LHS’ Board of Directors (Board) established a planning/building committee charged with assessing the school’s current services, facilities and needs for the future. In Summer 2017, with input from the Association congregation leaders, the Board approved the plan presented by the committee, establishing critical targets to accomplish by June 2019: • Increase enrollment to 400 students • Increase average ACT score to 26 (class of 2019) • Update the funding model to ensure a cost manageable by the Association • Improve the campus to provide a secure, innovative and collaborative environment. In Fall 2017, LHS conducted an extensive planning study among past, present and future members of the LHS community in order determine the feasibility of launching a capital campaign to support the Board-approved plans. The results of the study clearly indicated that our school community understands and has the desire and commitment to tackle these projects. A successful campaign will allow us to • Ensure the facility has the capacity and resources to serve the increasing student enrollment in academic and physical education programs • Renovate and upgrade the aging building • Update the technology to meet the evolving needs of the student body and staff. Increasing our space and modernizing our facilities and technology will positively impact LHS’ ability to attract and retain students. Most importantly, with the success of Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out, we will maintain the small classroom sizes and one-on-one attention that foster the academic excellence of our students.
GYMNASIUM
STEM, SCIENCE LAB AND MUSIC CLASSROOMS
“Lutheran High School has made a tremendous impact on our family and the Christian education and molding of our three children. We are excited to see LHS as it continues to grow and be a beacon for young people who desire a fantastic Christian education. Our family is excited to be part of the continued development and growth of LHS and will continue to support its efforts. Go Cougars!!!” Jeff & Sandy Von Deylen Alison 2012, Carley 2014, Brooks 2017 Honorary Chairs
Our Goals CELEBRATION GOAL $2.5 MILLION* Reaching this milestone allows us to construct a new 27,970 sq. ft. building that will include an additional science lab, Music and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) classrooms; a larger gym; lobby, locker rooms, bathrooms and a concession stand. Additionally, we will renovate the current music and art classrooms, older labs, library, office and refurbish the current commons.
CHALLENGE GOAL $4 MILLION*
VICTORY GOAL $6 MILLION
*Note: Addressing the needs in the Celebration and Challenge goals will require loans of $3.75 million.
Reaching the Victory Goal will allow us to complete all projects in the three tiers with loans of $2.3 million – reducing the required debt by $1.45 million.
Reaching the Challenge Goal allows us to complete all projects in the Celebration Goal, and refurbish four classrooms and the hallways, enhance technology, expand and centralize the Student Services office, plus add a multi-use conference room, renovate the current gym to a commons area, and repave the parking lot.
Reaching the Victory Goal of $6 million positions LHS to complete all the projects in the first two tiers, plus refurbish the four remaining classrooms and add a fullservice kitchen.
“We believe that an LHS education is important for the student, the family, and the community. LHS encourages the development of each student’s interests and unique gifts for a life of discovery and fulfillment that stretches far beyond the classroom. Now, through the Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out Capital Campaign, we will be able to extend this opportunity to more students, their families, and the greater community, ensuring the blessings of an LHS education for generations to come!” Glenn & Laura Mahnken Curtis 2006, Ben 2010 General Chairs
Why
REACH UP REACH IN REACH OUT?
To provide the opportunity for the spiritual, academic, and social benefits of an LHS education to 550 students, their families, and the community by: • Creating 6 new classrooms – a 30% increase • 3 general classrooms • Science lab • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) • Music • Maintaining small class sizes • Expanding the commons space • Constructing bigger gym space (seating from 675 to 1,000) • Developing a bigger lobby • Enhancing office space • Centralizing Student Services office • Offering a full -service kitchen to deliver healthier meals and host special events • Creating a better space for us to congregate as one for chapel • Growing relationships through added informal space • Raising visibility, perception and recognition from the public • Emphasizing the importance and value we place on our students • Responding to the growing needs of students today
“We do a lot of things well here, both academically and extracurricularly; however, the opportunity to grow spiritually is the greatest thing that we get to assist young people in doing. I love being a part of that; because helping them grow challenges me to grow as well.” Claudia Staude, LHS English teacher
“LHS has made a huge difference in my life. It has given me a healthy lifestyle, friends, knowledge, and a new way of thinking about the Bible. Truly, this school has changed me for the better.” Colby Jackson, student
FREQUENTLY WHAT DIFFERENCE HAS LHS MADE IN THE LIVES OF OUR STUDENTS, FAMILIES, CHURCHES AND COMMUNITY?
Asked QUESTIONS
Throughout the past 35 years, LHS has graduated 1,732 students who now serve their communities as business owners, healthcare professionals, church workers, educators, scientists, and community leaders. These alumni took the next steps in their life journey prepared academically, nurtured personally, and strengthened spiritually; future generations deserve, and need, this same opportunity.
DO WE NEED ADDITIONAL SPACE AND IMPROVEMENTS?
HOW WILL THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN AFFECT TUITION?
Yes. Our current enrollment of 345 students almost exceeds the initial design of our present facility. Plus, LHS is GROWING – Fall 2018 enrollment is conservatively projected at 380 students! To accommodate the growth that is forecasted over the coming years, we will add 6 new classrooms, increasing our capacity in order to serve 550 students. Further, we will refurbish existing classrooms for improved function, aesthetics and technological advancements; and create more space for the arts and physical education.
The Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out Capital Campaign will not affect tuition. LHS’s future tuition rate will continue to be consistent with the cost of living, rising at approximately 2-3% per year.
Most importantly, with the success of Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out, we will maintain the small classroom sizes and one-on-one attention that foster the academic excellence of our students.
HOW IS THE INCREASED ENROLLMENT PROJECTION CALCULATED? Enrollment is calculated based on historical enrollment data; the matriculation and enrollment rates of K-8 elementary feeder schools, and trends in students attending LHS from the community. We have experienced an increase in all three areas for the last 5 years and this trend is expected to continue.
WILL THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN INCREASE OUR CONGREGATION’S ASSESSMENT? No. In fact, each year for the past 5 years, congregational assessments have decreased by a total of 60%. The Board has recently approved the 20172018 assessment total to remain consistent for three additional years.
HOW WILL THE SCHOOL SERVICE THE DEBT? Our prayer is that the Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out Capital Campaign will result in minimal additional debt for LHS. However, financial projections based on the forecasted increase in student enrollment will allow us to support potential debt levels.
“The courses at LHS have taught me how to use my time wisely as well as the importance of studying. Different activities such as small group, student council, and Teens For Life have led me to meet new people and start friendships that I would not have had if I didn’t participate in them.” Sabrina Burgdorf, student
Naming OPPORTUNITIES
Naming opportunities are an ideal way for alumni, parents, and friends of LHS to leave lasting legacies, honor a loved one or show their commitment to excellence in Christian education. At the same time, naming opportunities enable LHS to recognize those donors who have made impactful gifts to the campaign.
OPPORTUNITY
QUANTITY
DONATION
Commons Gymnasium Library/media center STEM classroom New music room Main entrance Student services New science lab General classrooms Multi-use conference room Art room Weight room Faculty lounge Wellness office New music office Specialized classrooms Administrative Offices Study spaces
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 15 1 2 1 1 1 1 4 11 6
$1,000,000 $1,000,000 $150,000 $100,000 $100,000 $100,000 $75,000 $50,000 $25,000 each $25,000 $25,000 each $25,000 $25,000 $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 $10,000 each $5,000 each
“LHS is blessed to have the critical need for expanded facilities that will allow for the growth of our dynamic school community. By participating in our ambitious vision for the future, you will help to empower LHS to Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out to a new generation of students, providing a rigorous academic experience and a well-rounded Christian education. This is truly a remarkable moment for our school and the Cougar family!� Doug Kuhlmann, Director of Activities & Development
METHODS There are many ways to contribute to and support the capital campaign.
of Giving
Pledges are commitments made in good faith, but are not legally binding. As tax laws are always changing and each individual situation is different, donors are encouraged to consult with their financial advisors to determine which method of contributing is most beneficial. Cash
Gifts made by cash or check are the most common and will allow LHS to address its immediate needs.
Credit Cards
Gifts made through credit cards can be set up through the LHS finance office.
Stocks/Securities
Charitable gifts of appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual funds offer special tax advantages and can be a beneficial way to provide a significant gift to LHS.
Planned Gift
Planned giving is the process of carefully selecting the best method and assets for making a charitable gift. Such a gift can enable you to take full advantage of the tax laws to accomplish your financial and charitable goals. A bequest contained in your will is the most common method of planned giving.
Corporate Matching Gifts
A matching gift program provided through your employer or board membership may allow you to increase the value of your gift. Many companies match charitable gifts of employees, retirees or board members.
Life Insurance
You may donate an existing policy by simply naming LHS as the owner and beneficiary. Or you may consider donating a new policy.
“We are supporting the campaign because we have been called by LHS to share our gifts given to us by God. We have a passion to serve the Lutheran community.� J.T. & Maria Norville Cabinet Committee
BUDGETING YOUR GIFT OVER 3 YEARS Stretching your pledge over a 3-year period may maximize the total amount of your support. The following chart is provided to serve as a guide as you prayerfully consider your level of support. Total Gift $25,000 $20,000 $10,000 $7,500 $6,000 $4,500 $3,000 $1,500 $900
Monthly $695 $555 $275 $208 $165 $125 $85 $40 $25
Quarterly $2,080 $1,665 $830 $625 $500 $375 $250 $125 $75
Annual $7,500 $6,665 $3,333 $2,500 $2,000 $1,500 $1,000 $500 $300
Your gift makes a difference!
C A M PA I G N L E A D E R S H I P
C A M PA I G N P R AY E R
HEAD OF SCHOOL Dr. Craig Ernstmeyer
PRINCIPAL Jon Bernhardt
Heavenly Father, We Reach Up to You in prayer, grateful for the many blessings you have showered upon Lutheran High School. We thank You for the firm foundation laid down for us by our predecessors. Give us the strength to build upon their traditions and commitment to excellence.
DIRECTOR OF ACTIVITIES AND DEVELOPMENT Dr. Doug Kuhlmann
STAFF CHAIR Ed Staude
CAMPAIGN PASTOR
We Reach In to our hearts and souls, confident that You are the core who firmly guides our spiritual, academic and physical growth.
Rev. Chuck Schlie, Pastor
HONORARY CHAIRS
Walk with us as we Reach Out to share your message of love to all and open the doors for others to join the Cougar family as one.
Scott and Carla Rutledge Jeff and Sandy Von Deylen
Bless our students, the families who have put them in the loving care of Lutheran High School, and all our supporters and volunteers.
GENERAL CHAIRS Glenn and Laura Mahnken
CAMPAIGN CABINET
May we generously share our gifts to create a place of faith, hope, and love. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Bill and Joy Adams Bryan and Melissa Blackford Brian and Ann Bredensteiner Matthew and Ashley Birk Russell and Dana Demien Lew and Carol Fruend Mick and Tonya Goslin Eric and Cathy Jost J.T. and Maria Norville Anthony and Cherie Osborne William and Julie Turner Dave and Tammy Zilz
PRAYER CHAIRS Rick and Elizabeth Fruend
SPECIAL EVENT CHAIRS Jeff and Jackie Bretsch Family Steve and Christine Foshage Mike and Kim Hannegan Family
DEVELOPMENT COUNSEL Steier Group
Reach
UP IN OUT
A Campaign for Lutheran High School
5100 Mexico Road St. Peters, Missouri 63376 P 636.928.5100 lutheranhighstcharles.com