Sharing the Vision

Kris Finley, Elea National Board President

     As leaders in Lutheran Schools or Early Childhood Centers we are responsible for the vision for our organization.   This was a new idea for me more than a few years ago when I became involved in the ELEA.  I had previously viewed my position in my school as an employee with a very specific job description.  I had not yet learned what unique opportunity awaited me as I embraced vision leadership.

     Here at Trinity Lutheran Preschool there have been and continue to be lots of changes . . .  changes that would have never been accomplished if there had not been a dream in someone’s mind, then shared in a wider circle until finally the vision became reality and the cycle began all over again.  I have heard an old saying, “if an organization is not growing then it is dying.”  Perhaps the word changing could be substituted for growing.  With that inevitable change comes the need for direction.   Vision is the answer for what direction to go.  You, as the leader in your school/center should have the big picture of the current situation, know of changes in your environment (i.e. Congregation, Synod, Churchwide, ELEA locally and nationally) and be able to see the possibilities for expanded ministry. 

     When I first came to Trinity 15+ years ago there was one room where we ran 4 classes of preschoolers.  Today there is a new church building where the preschool runs 8 classes, the full day child care has 4 classes for infants through preschool and an after school program for schoolagers.  Both programs offer summer programs for 3 year olds through 12 years.  In another year we will add a Kindergarten program.  Before that program is open it will be time to look at “what’s next”.  There are so many needs of children these days it is not hard to dream up the next step, but the challenge will always be for us to share the story and find others that embrace the values we hold dear.  When that happens then the money appears, buildings and playgrounds get built and programs begin.  Don’t ask me how, I just know from personal experience that it happens.  (I do have a hunch it’s a God thing . . .)

     So this year as you are opening school once again, plan some time to dream about what comes next, tell the story everywhere you go and watch it happen!  We at ELEA would love to hear about your dreams and your success stories.  If you have a story to tell please contact the ELEA office, we would love to share them in an upcoming edition of Views and Vision.

Kris serves as president of the ELEA National Board and is the director of Trinity Lutheran Preschool in Lynnwood, Washington.  She may be reached by email at klynnfin@aol.com

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