Dr. Andy Surber

Dear GSL Community,

Each day I arrive at work, I pause, take a deep breath, and offer a quick word of appreciation for playing a role in the life of Grace-St. Luke’s School. This school is such a special place for students and families to learn and grow! I am often asked about goals I have for the school, and having goals is important. They provide direction, offer accountability, and measure progress. Being new to the community, I hold many aspirations for the work ahead – some personal and some professional. One goal that I spend a significant amount of time, thought, and energy on is uniting our community around all things GSL.

When thinking about everyone who makes our school community special, a saying from Ted Lasso comes to mind that I feel fits perfectly. When Coach Lasso introduces two of his friends to each other, he has a saying that goes, “Congratulations, you just met a cool person.” This sentiment could not be more true when talking about the people and events at GSL this year. The opportunities for all of us to meet, connect, deepen relationships, and celebrate our community have been plentiful, and every person involved has had a chance to make a positive impact that strengthens us all! GSL is a dynamic place, and I venture to say that not a week goes by without an event that brings people together. Some events are HUGE – like our 75th Anniversary party, the beautiful Lower School Advent-Christmas Evening Chapel Service, and the outstanding Anchor Auction. Others revolve around our fine arts and athletics programs, including theater performances, art shows, music concerts, and contests that take place at the field, in the gym, or even out at Shelby Farms.

While the opportunity to unite and celebrate our students, faculty, staff, and coaches is often the reason behind these events, the real magic (and what makes our school so very special) is the connection between families. We are a community, and community only exists through the interactions and connections we all share. It takes intentional effort, and for that I thank you. The GSL community is not one we should ever take for granted, and it only exists through our combined efforts to relationship-build. Thank you for taking the time to be there for your children, our school, and each other. The extra effort is evident as we work together to make our school all it can be, and the results are easy to see!

Again, thank you all for welcoming me back to this amazing community this year. I look forward to what's ahead as we set the stage for the next 75 years at GSL.

Go, Saints!

Andy Surber, Ed.D. Head of School