Wellness

In recent years, Lincoln Lutheran has significantly expanded its programs and resources to support the well-being of its students—addressing their mind, body, and spirit. Recognizing the growing need for comprehensive physical, mental, and spiritual wellness support, the school’s administration and faculty have implemented several key initiatives to enhance student care and success.

Enhancing Student Care

The following steps have been taken to ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive:

  • Counseling Services: Lincoln Lutheran has partnered with GracePoint Institute for Relational Health to provide on-campus mental health counseling services.

  • Student Success Center: A dedicated center has been established to offer academic support to students.

  • Resource Program Director: A new position has been added to oversee the Student Success Center and offer assistance to both students and faculty.

  • Upgraded Lunch Program: The school has elevated nutrition by incorporating more fresh and scratch-made meals into its lunch offerings.

  • Professional Development: Faculty and staff receive ongoing professional development opportunities to better support student well-being.

  • Cell Phone Policy: The use of cell phones in classrooms is prohibited to reduce distractions and improve the learning environment.

  • Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Education: A new SEL curriculum has been implemented for middle school students.

  • Mentorship Programs: The Warrior Walk Mentoring Program has been introduced to match middle school and high school students for mentorship experiences.

These efforts have greatly contributed to the well-being of the rapidly growing student body. The growth of the school is a testament to the exceptional, Christ-centered education provided by Lincoln Lutheran. However, this growth has also revealed some challenges, particularly regarding space. The school is facing a shortage of academic classrooms, office space, and a student wellness center that no longer meets the needs of its expanding population.

The Warrior Wellness Center: A Bold Step Forward

In response to these challenges, the school has made a significant decision to expand its wellness initiatives. On February 22, the Delegate Assembly approved the construction of the Warrior Wellness Center (WWC). This new facility will play a critical role in supporting the overall wellness of students while providing more space for academic and extracurricular activities.

The Warrior Wellness Center is a key part of the school’s ongoing wellness initiative, reinforcing its commitment to equipping students with the necessary resources and support to thrive in a Christ-centered environment. The WWC is not just a building project—it's an investment in the holistic well-being of every student, helping them to grow stronger academically, physically, and spiritually.

Addressing Space Challenges and Long-Term Vision

The Warrior Wellness Center will feature:

  • Two classrooms dedicated to academic courses

  • Four offices to accommodate a growing faculty and staff

  • A state-of-the-art weight training area

  • A speed training area with specialized turf

  • 7,000+ square feet of space

Key Enhancements Through the Warrior Wellness Initiative

The Warrior Wellness Center will provide several important enhancements to the school’s existing programs:

  • A Christ-Centered Approach to Wellness: True wellness is holistic, encompassing the mind, body, and soul. The initiative reinforces the truth that our strength comes from the Lord (Psalm 46:1) and that we are called to care for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

  • Expanded Strength & Conditioning Curriculum: A dedicated space for strength and conditioning classes will be available to all students—athletes and non-athletes alike.

  • Certified Strength Coach/Teacher: A faith-driven coach will guide students in physical strength and discipline, teaching not only fitness but also perseverance and reliance on Christ.

  • Enhanced Mental Health Support: Physical activity has been linked to improved mental health, cognitive function, and academic performance. The expansion of physical fitness offerings will provide students with essential tools for healthy living both during their time at Lincoln Lutheran and beyond.

  • Revamped Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS): Lincoln Lutheran is continuing to develop a comprehensive plan to provide individualized, Christ-centered care for students’ academic, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

  • Athletic Trainer Expansion: The school will pursue expanded Athletic Trainer coverage to provide ongoing health and wellness support for student-athletes.

Gratitude for Leadership and Faithful Support

This expansion of the Warrior Wellness Initiative is a testimony to God’s faithfulness and the hard work of many individuals. Special thanks go to Dan Masters, Sue Ziegler, Sean Wieting, Scott Ernstmeyer, Mike Lockee, Jacob Cervantes, Joel Janecek, and Bob Caldwell for their vision and leadership in bringing the Warrior Wellness Center to life.

Additionally, Head of School Sheila Wallingford, Chief Operations Officer Benjamin Smith, and Chief Advancement Officer Dan Masters have played a crucial role in broadening the scope of the initiative to include enhanced curriculum, mental health support, and expanded student success services.

Moving Forward in Faith

As Lincoln Lutheran embarks on the next phase of this project, the school community is invited to pray for wisdom, provision, and God’s guidance. Philippians 1:6 reminds us that He who began a good work in us will carry it to completion.

The school is also encouraging active support of the initiative—whether through prayer, involvement, or generosity. During the 2025 Lincoln Lutheran Gala, the community generously raised over $97,000 for the Warrior Wellness Center project, a remarkable testament to the support and dedication of the families and friends who believe in the school’s mission. The big reveal of the Warrior Wellness Center took place at this event, where attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the project, see renderings, and explore ways to support this important initiative.

Through the combined efforts of visionary leaders, administrators, and the entire school community, the Warrior Wellness Initiative is now a comprehensive plan designed to support the full well-being of every student, every day, in a Christ-filled environment. As Lincoln Lutheran continues to grow, the school remains steadfast in its mission to equip students to live as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, both academically and spiritually.

Stay tuned for more updates, and join in the excitement as this bold step forward unfolds.