Happy 40th
Good Shepherd Para Vista
2021 marks the 40th Birthday of Good Shepherd Lutheran School and provides opportunity for us to consider and give thanks for the legacy being left by those who have and are contributing to our now rich history of life and learning.
What is unique ... what is distinctive about Good Shepherd Lutheran School? Our Vision and Values statements articulate exactly what it is that brings us together as a community to inspire quality relationships and an empowering learning environment.
As we transition into the new school year, take some time to reflect on our Vision and Values, how they continue to impact your family and connect you to your school family.
I thank God for continuing to bless us abundantly. After a somewhat disconnected 2020, I pray that this year will allow us opportunity to recapture many of the events and activities that breathe life and love into our relationships.
2021 .... join me for a year of celebration!
David Wilksch
Principal
OUR VISION: Active and connected, growing for LIFE
In him we live and move and are alive. Acts 17:28
Our vision for lifelong learning is an inspirational statement that acknowledges the awesome responsibility we assume as we guide and support children and families in a changing world.
A traditional African proverb states, ‘It takes a village to raise a child’. Success as a learner is not an individual pursuit - it requires shared goals, dedication, commitment, collaboration and connectivity within the Good Shepherd community and into the world beyond.
Growing for LIFE is much more than an academic exercise. ‘LIFE’ in our vision is strongly connected to Jesus’ words in John 10:10. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
OUR VALUES:
Love
We love because God first loved us. We respond by extending respect, compassion and care to each other.
from the Bible…
… let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love. 1 John 3:18
And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it. Colossians 3:14
wise words…
“A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.” Elbert Hubbard
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” Lao Tzu
Optimism
Optimism cultivates expectation and inspires confident action towards a positive future. It promotes courage, integrity and strength to overcome fear of the future or regret for the past.
from the Bible…
I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for. Jeremiah 29:11
… you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realised. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies. Philippians 4: 8-9
wise words…
“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” Anne Frank
“What day is it?" “It's today," squeaked Piglet. “My favourite day," said Pooh. A.A. Milne
Creativity
Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way. Creativity harnesses imagination to inspire innovative solutions. We acknowledge that God’s amazing creativity is beyond our comprehension. Good Shepherd Lutheran School is a community which stands in awe and wonder at the mystery of God’s creativity. In response we strive to shine in individuality, to love and serve God and people using our gifts and talents.
from the Bible…
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10
So, let your light shine to all people. Then they will see the good things you do. And they will praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16
wise words…
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions.” Albert Einstein