From the Principal's Desk
Episodes
Ep 90 Bryan Wetzel
19 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Bryan Wetzel about his thoughts on ways public education could improve. Bryan has worked with or started several companies, in...
Ep 89 Caring for Families Around Christmas
05 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about caring for others around Christmas time.
Ep 88 Planned Giving
21 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Craig Mellendorf and his work with estate planning and schools. You can learn more about what Craig does at https://www.sfcest...
Ep 87 Starting a Christian High School
14 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Keith Traska about his work as the founding principal for Aug Prep High School North Campus. It's a great conversation tha...
Ep 87 Global Partners
08 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with two special guests about their work with flourishing schools.This is also a special crossover episode with What Works for Me.
Ep 86 Fixing Relationships
26 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about how to fix, maintain, and grow the relationships at our schools.
Ep 85 Professional Development Options
10 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We talk about the many ways you can offer professional development.
Ep 84 First Impressions
03 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about your school first impressions.
Ep 83 Standards Based Report Cards
26 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk a bit about standards based report cards.
Ep 82 Trust Based Observations
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Craig Randall about Trust Based Observations. This is a very intentional framework to improve teaching and learning. Find out ...
Ep 81 Recognizing Teachers
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk all things teacher recognition.
Ep 80 School Awards
13 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about the importance of recognizing the work being done in our schools.
Ep 79 Reflection
06 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about how we reflect on the school year.
Ep 78 A Student's Perspective
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
We speak with a student about their school experience. To hear his mom's side go check out the part two on our sister podcast What Works for Me.
Ep 77 Hiring Teachers
21 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about what goes into hiring teachers to serve at faith based schools.
Ep 76 Executive Director
31 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Pastor Caleb Adams and Executive Director Gregg Pinick about the executive director structure in place at Trinity Lutheran in ...
Ep 75 School Calendar
17 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
How do you make a good school year calendar? That's the topic for today!
Ep 74 The Christmas Message
19 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It's a tradition around here to end the year with a student reading of Luke 2. Merry Christmas!
Ep 73 The Week Before Christmas
13 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We talk about how we plan the week before Christmas. It's a joyous time for your schools, and a great opportunity for some fun!
Ep 72 Parent Feedback
26 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk all things parent feedback with Ryan Ermeling. You can reach Ryan at [email protected] and can check out Parent Pulse at https://...
Ep 71 Part 2 of Parent Conversations
20 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We go into some detail about parent conversations.
Ep 70 Parent Conversations
12 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss how we talk to angry parents.
Ep 69 Getting it all Done
17 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about how we stay sane in our roles as leaders when there is always more to do.
Ep 68 The Power of Moments
09 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about the book The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact by Chip and Dan Heath and what we can learn f...
Ep 67 Good Habits
19 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Now that the year has started how do you keep everything running smoothly? Good habits!
Ep 66 School Policy
15 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk all about school policies!
Ep 65 Benefits of Field Trips
04 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
There are so many benefits to a good field trip!
Ep 64 New Teachers
28 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about welcoming new teachers into our buildings. Thank you for listening!
Ep 63 New Families
21 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Every year your school will have new families. What do you do differently to welcome them into your school? This week Mike and I talk about what Chris...
Ep 62 Summer Work, Summer Rest
28 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss how we balance rest and work during summer break.
Ep 61 Grant Writing
17 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Mike shares his best grant writing tips! His grant writing tips article can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fZybdLln-mmEQPZ1Y2CLYNpD9z...
Ep 60 People to Tell You No
12 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
You need good people around you to be the best school leader you can be. Sometimes, those people need to tell you no. How do you find the right people...
Ep 59 Joy in Struggles
29 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
God leads us through all things. Even the bad, difficult, and frustrating ones. This week we talk about the good things that have come out of the unex...
Ep 58 Modern Classroom Teaching with Miguel Melchor
15 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week Rob speaks with Miguel Melchor about the neat learning model being used in his classroom. Miguel is an award-winning educator with over a de...
Ep. 57 Teacher Prep Time
09 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss teacher prep time. How we schedule it, how much there is, and how other schools compare. It is one of those items where the answe...
Ep 56 Best Practices in Ministry Conference
29 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We share all about the Best Practices in Ministry conference. It is one of the best free conferences you can attend, and it comes with free ice cream....
Ep 55 Working with Emergency Services
15 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we look at how our schools can work with emergency services, and what role you play as a school leader.
Ep 54 The AI Ate My Homework
11 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the innovative integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within Lutheran schools. We delve into how AI tools are enhanci...
Ep. 53 Class Trips
25 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the unique world of class trips in Lutheran elementary schools, diving into how these excursions blend educational rigor w...
Ep 52 Classroom Management Part 2
18 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This week we continue our conversation about classroom management. We hope this is helpful, and if you have something to add, please contact us! You ...
Ep. 51 Classroom Management Part 1
07 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about the art of effective classroom management. Join us as we explore practical strategies and insights we have gained on ma...
Ep 50 Class Parties
14 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How do you feel about class parties? Love 'em or hate 'em, they are a part of school life. This week we discuss our experiences with them, why...
Ep 49 Finding Joy in Chaos
08 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week Mike and I discuss how to find joy in your call no matter what is happening around you.
Ep 48 Snow Days
30 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Should you call a snow day? It's a difficult decision that many school leaders have to make. This week Mike and I share how we make that decision ...
Ep 47 Faculty Meetings
21 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Everyone loves a good faculty meeting! This week we discuss practical ways to make all your meetings more useful and enjoyable. What are some of your ...
Ep 46 Professional Organizations
17 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss the benefit of professional organizations such as LEA and NAESP. Let us know which organizations are most beneficial to you as a ...
Ep. 45 Kevin Creutz - Ohio Superintendent of Schools
09 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we speak with Kevin Creutz, the Superintendent of Ohio Lutheran Schools. Kevin shares about the work he does supporting schools, principals,...
Ep 44 Horror Stories from the Classroom
31 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This is our Halloween special! This week we talk about the things that scare teachers and principals. We keep it lighthearted. What are some of your ...
Ep 43 Student Led Conferences
26 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss student led conferences. How do you handle parent teacher conferences at your school?
Ep 42 Arrival and Dismissal
21 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about arrival and dismissal procedures, stories, and kindergarten parking tickets. It's a fun one! A fun video about parent drivin...
Ep 41 The Reformation
11 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss the Reformation and its importance in our schools! What does your school do for the Reformation?
Ep 40 Tuition
05 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tuition! This is a thorny topic because we never want money to get in the way of our mission. This week we discuss how to set your school tuition, the...
Ep 39 Lesson Planning
28 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Lesson planning is an important part of effective teaching, and it is up the principal to guide that process. This week we discuss how we have approac...
Ep 38 Appreciation
20 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Appreciation is all about caring for, knowing, and loving the people you are blessed to serve with every day. This week we discuss the reasons you sho...
Ep 37 Professional Development
13 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Professional development is crucial to the longterm success of your school, and the growth of the teachers. How do you pay for it? How do you decide w...
Ep 36 Budgeting Part 2
07 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss budgeting for your school, and we get into the nuts and bolts of creating a functioning school budget. It isn't glamorous, ...
Ep 35 Culture
01 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Your school culture is important! This week we discuss ways we have built and strengthened school culture.
Ep 34 Nathaniel Provencio
25 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk to Nathaniel Provencio about his work helping schools be the best they can be. Nathaniel has worked in the public education field si...
Ep 33 Mission Statements
16 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week Mike and I discuss the importance of your mission statement, and why you should have one if you don't yet.
Ep. 32 Leading Through Disunity
20 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss leading a school when there are disagreements, practical tips to handle disunity, and some stumbles we have had as leaders along ...
Ep. 31 SLED
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk to three SLED participants about their experiences in the School Leadership Development program (SLED). Thank you to all three of ...
Ep. 30 Instructional Leadership
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss the principal's role as instructional leader.
Ep. 29 The Summer Months
04 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss what we do as principals over the summer break.
Ep. 28 Productivity
20 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We share what we do to stay productive in the face of all the tasks that go along with being a principal.
Ep. 27 Proficiency Based Learning with Jim Scriven
05 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss proficiency based learning with Jim Scriven, the Director of Education Services for the Northwest District. What are your thought...
Ep. 26 Ending the Year Well
01 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The school year is almost over. What can you do to ensure that it ends on a strong note? This week we share some practical strategies to end the year ...
Ep. 25 Standardized Testing
07 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What is the role of standardized testing in our Lutheran schools? a)Useful to guide and improve outcomes b)A necessary evil c)Both a and b d)Other T...
Ep. 24 Staff Transparency
30 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What information should a school leader share with teachers and families? Transparency is important, but what does it look like in practice? This week...
Marketing! This time with an expert!
24 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We talk about marketing (again) this time with guest Lauren Creutz! Lauren is the marketing and admissions leader at Bethany Lutheran School in Parma,...
Lent
18 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss the importance of Lent in our Lutheran schools. Special thanks to pastor Vogel for joining us again!
Episode 21 Budgets!
03 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week Mike and I discuss the budget process. There is so much more that we could cover, so there will be a part 2 soon!
Ep. 20 Pastors
20 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss pastors and their roles in our Lutheran schools. Featuring special guests Pastor Ben Vogel and Dr. Blake Willard. Pas...
Ep. 19 Crisis Planning
11 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week Mike and I discuss planning for emergencies and how you plan for anything.
Ep. 18 Who Worries About You?
03 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Being a school leader can take a toll on you if you let it. What do you do to stay effective, healthy, and happy? This week Mike and I dis...
Ep. 17 - Lutheran Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Mychal Thom
27 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Mychal Thom joins us to discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion in our Lutheran schools. Mychal is the Dean of the College of Business and Tech...
Episode 16 Self-Awareness
19 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Knowing your strengths and the strengths of those you serve goes a long way toward improving your school. Featuring special guests Dr. Blake Wi...
Episode 15 National Lutheran Schools Week
05 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about NLSW and the wonderful ways we celebrate our Lutheran schools.
Episode 14 The Call
15 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss the Call and the Call process as it relates to new teachers and those deliberating a Call to be a school leader.
Episode 13 Student Activities and Clubs
08 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
This week discuss clubs and activities at our Lutheran schools. What unique opportunities do you offer students at your school?
Episode 12 - Enrollment Mechanics
23 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode we discuss the enrollment process from inquiry to acceptance.
Episode 11 Enrollment and Marketing Part 1
18 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
This week we talk about marketing your school, sharing your story, and telling people about the Gospel.
Episode 10 - School Boards
11 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There are several school governance structures out there, and today we are discussing the school board. We offer some guidance on working succes...
Episode 9 - Christmas
03 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Our Lutheran schools are great places because Jesus is there! We are blessed to be able to celebrate Jesus' birth with our school and church com...
Episode 8 Communication
27 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Communication is such an important part of our success as Lutheran schools. Mike and I share what we do, talk about the reasons behind good comm...
Episode 7 Chapel
21 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
This week we discuss chapel at our schools, why it's important, and what we do. How is chapel special at your school?
Ep. 6 Parent Teacher Conferences
13 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We are blessed to serve families as we work in partnership to teach their children. Parent-Teacher conferences are an important part of the work...
Ep. 5 - Teacher Wellness
08 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Being a Lutheran teacher is difficult (but worthwhile!) work. This week we discuss supporting God's teachers in our schools, and the principal's...
Episode 4: School Accreditation
29 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We discuss the importance of school accreditation and explain the National Lutheran School Association accreditation process. We also offer some...
Teacher Observations
24 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Helping our teachers improve is a vital part of the continued success of our schools. This week we discuss what we do at our schools, and what t...
School Discipline
15 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
What does discipline look like at your school? How do you balance law and gospel when it comes to discipline in a Lutheran school? This we...
The First Week
09 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Tips for making the first week a success as a school principal.