The annual observance recognizes the contributions of Lutheran education through the Synod's 2,400 early childhood centers, elementary schools and high schools nationwide.

Terry Schmidt, associate director of LCMS School Ministry, says Lutheran schools offer students something extra. "We know that learning takes place just as it does in any school," Schmidt said. "But the opportunity to be shaped by the Gospel has a profound impact on the lives of students. "The opportunity to stop and pray teaches that Jesus wants us to be talking with Him all the time," he said. "Students are invited to participate in projects that teach compassion and caring through their offerings and collections. They learn that they can make a difference in the lives of others -- a Christ-like difference."

In Baldwin County we have Good Shepherd Lutheran Elementary School, (governed by the Baldwin County Lutheran School Association) located in Elberta, next to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. Presently, it has a pre-K3; pre-4, and kindergarten class.

The theme this year is "Equipped" (securing each child's future). 2 Timothy 3: 16-17 "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work."

Children are God's precious gifts to us. He has placed in our hands the responsibility for their spiritual, as well as temporal, welfare. Dedicated and caring teachers assist Christian parents in rearing and training their children to believe in Jesus Christ and love their neighbor.

Please consider supporting our students of Good Shepherd Lutheran School during this celebration. The students have or will be singing at our Member Churches during the month of March. Our schedule is as follows:

St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Elberta - Sunday, March 4th @9:45am

St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Foley - Sunday, March 11th @10:00am

Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church - Sunday, March 18th @9:00am

The children will be celebrating National Lutheran Schools Week all month, sharing their love for God, family, friends, environment, community and others. Monday, March 5th - Wear green to remind us that we will always grow in Jesus! Tuesday, March 6th- Wear red to remind us of God's love! Wednesday, March 7th - Wear orange to remind us to shine God's love to others! Thursday,March 8th - Wear yellow to remind us that Jesus, God's Son, rose for us! Friday, March 9th - Wear your school shirt to show school spirit!

March 15th we will celebrate "Grandparents and Special Friend's Day" from 9:00-11:30am

Children's Service Project - We will be collecting non-perishable foods for the food pantry at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church. (You can drop off food donations at the school during the month of March) For more information about the school, please email gsls@gulftel.com or check out our school's facebook page.