October 2024 Edition
Dear Risen Savior Family,
We are excited to share the latest updates from Risen Savior Academy! This month has been filled with memorable moments and milestones as our students continue to grow in faith and knowledge.
Education Weekend Recap
This past weekend, we hosted Education Weekend to strengthen the connection between Risen Savior Lutheran Church and Risen Savior Academy. The focus of the weekend was on the importance of Christian education, both within our academy and throughout our church community.
During the service, our students blessed the congregation with songs of praise, showcasing the joy they experience in their faith journey. Following the service, a brief presentation was given by Jodi Batsch, our Elementary Administrator, and Maria Gines, our Early Childhood Director, highlighting the academy’s impact on the lives of students and families.
Here are a few key moments from the presentation:
- A student-centered ministry: Risen Savior Academy, as a ministry of our church, continues to share the love of Jesus with young learners and their families. This partnership between school and church allows us to grow spiritually as one community.
- Mornings with Mommy: Many families are introduced to Risen Savior through this program, with at least nine children from the program joining our preschool this year.
- Stories of Faith: Our students are growing spiritually in profound ways. Recently, a 1st-grade student was baptized, sparking meaningful conversations about baptism among their classmates, which continued at home with parents.
- Expressions of Faith: Mrs. Batsch shared how students create drawings during their time in her office, often reflecting the Bible stories they learn in class. These drawings, displayed on her door, are reminders of how the love of Jesus fills the hearts of our students.
- Living the Faith: One touching moment involved a kindergarten student who, upon forgetting their binder with their Christ Light (Bible story), told their dad, “How will my faith grow if I don’t have my Bible lesson?” Moments like this illustrate the deep impact Christian education has on the hearts of our children.
Throughout the weekend, we reflected on how Christian education shapes young lives. We are grateful for the continued partnership between Risen Savior Lutheran Church and Risen Savior Academy, ensuring our students grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally in Christ’s love.
Academy News & Highlights
School Theme: “Tell the World the Good News”
This year’s theme encourages students to let their light shine by sharing the love of Jesus with friends, family, and others. Through lessons and activities, we inspire them to spread positivity and hope, living out Jesus’ message of love and kindness in their everyday lives. Together, we celebrate and share the good news in our community and beyond!
Elementary Updates
Growing Enrollment
Our 2024-2025 school year kicked off with 20 students in Kindergarten and 20 in 1st Grade. Though we are still in the early stages of growth, Risen Savior Academy is taking important steps toward becoming a premier Christian elementary school in Lakewood Ranch, offering students a faith-filled, nurturing education.
First Field Trips of the Year
In October, our students enjoyed their first field trips! Kindergarten visited The Bishop Museum, exploring natural history exhibits, while 1st Grade visited Selby Gardens, learning about God’s creation in a hands-on environment.
Serving the Community
Our 1st Grade students participated in the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance’s ‘The Alliance Gives Back’ program by writing letters of appreciation for veterans taking part in the Southwest Florida Honor Flight. This memorable project gave our students the chance to express their gratitude for these heroes.
Preschool Updates
New STEAM Enrichment Program
This year, we introduced a new STEAM Enrichment Program for our preschoolers, connecting science, technology, engineering, arts, and math lessons to the Bible stories they explore each week. This program enhances their learning and strengthens the connection between faith and discovery.
Full Preschool and Fun Fall Activities
Our preschool is thriving, with 88 children enrolled this year! October was filled with exciting fall-themed activities, including nature art projects and pumpkin explorations, giving students the opportunity to learn creatively while celebrating the beauty of God’s creation.
October Slideshow: A Month in Review
Want to see all the fun our students have been having? Check out our October Highlights Slideshow, featuring photos of our students in the classroom, as well as snapshots from field trips and special activities.
Watch the slideshow here: October Highlights Slideshow
Student Achievements & Milestones
Our elementary students completed their Fall academic assessments in ELA and Math, setting a solid foundation for the school year. Additionally, we concluded Quarter 1 Report Cards and hosted Parent-Teacher Conferences, strengthening the partnership between home and school to support student success.
How You Can Support Risen Savior Academy
- Spread the Word: Know a family looking for a Christ-centered education? Encourage them to explore Risen Savior Academy! Enrollment is open for the 2024-2025 school year.
- Pray for Our Students and Staff: Please keep our students, teachers, and families in your prayers as they grow in faith and knowledge.
- Volunteer Opportunities: We’re always looking for volunteers to assist with events, read to students, or help with school projects. If you’d like to get involved, contact our Academy office.
Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of these young learners and their families through faith-filled education.
Blessings,
Risen Savior Lutheran Church & Academy Team