This Wednesday, LHS came alive with the warmth of gratitude and community as our Chapel Families hosted their annual Friendsgiving celebration—a school-wide feast that brings students together in their chapel family to share food, fellowship, and thanksgiving before the holiday break.

The Friendsgiving tradition has heartwarming roots in our school community. What began as Mrs. Urban's Chapel Family gathering over lunch for a Thanksgiving meal has blossomed into a school-wide event. When other families saw the bonds being strengthened around that shared table, they knew it was too good not to share. Now, every Chapel Family at LHS participates in this special celebration of community and gratitude.

Chapel Families are central to the LHS experience, providing every student with a home away from home throughout their high school years. Students are sorted into their Chapel Family when they enroll and remain connected to that group for their entire time at LHS. These families meet regularly on Mondays and Wednesdays for devotions, activities, and often food—building the kind of lasting relationships that make high school meaningful.
Friendsgiving exemplifies what makes Chapel Families special. It's not just about the turkey and sides (though those are certainly appreciated!). It's about pausing in the midst of busy school schedules to recognize what we're thankful for: each other, our community, and the bonds we've formed through shared faith and experiences.

While Chapel Families know how to compete—the Chapel Family Olympics each quarter keeps things lively as groups vie for points by winning competitions and exhibiting our school pillars—events like Friendsgiving remind us that we're all part of one larger LHS family. Whether your Chapel Family is currently leading in the Olympics standings or cheering from behind, everyone comes together as equals around the Friendsgiving table.

As we celebrated the annual Friendsgiving this Wednesday, we're reminded that the best traditions often start small—with one family deciding to share a meal and open their hearts to gratitude. Thanks to Mrs. Urban's Chapel Family for inspiring this beautiful tradition, and to all our Chapel Families for making LHS a place where faith, community, and relationships thrive.

​Happy Friendsgiving, Mustangs! We're thankful for each and every one of you.

Lutheran High School of San Antonio's commitment to pursuing excellence was on full display this month as faculty members participated in specialized professional development designed to enhance student learning and support.

On Friday, November 7, the entire LHSSA faculty gathered for a professional development session led by UnboundED, focusing on a powerful approach to teaching: leveraging students' "funds of knowledge" to strengthen academic learning.

The core message was clear—when teachers intentionally get to know their students on a deeper level and connect learning to their lived experiences, engagement and understanding flourish. The session challenged faculty to move beyond surface-level relationships and discover the rich assets, experiences, and community knowledge that each student brings to the classroom.

Teachers worked through a structured planning process that asked them to consider:

• What assets and lived experiences do students bring that can strengthen their academic learning?
• How can student assets be embedded into grade-level tasks while maintaining rigor?
• What evidence shows that these connections are strengthening student learning?

The approach emphasizes practical strategies, such as differentiated choice boards for assignments and assessments, which allow students to connect their learning to their own experiences and strengths. The goal isn't to connect every lesson to every student—that would be impossible—but to ensure that with reasonable frequency, every student can connect meaningfully to multiple lessons throughout the year.

Faculty left the session with a clear mission:

• Reflect on whose knowledge shows up—and whose doesn't—in lessons
• Recognize opportunities to connect learning to students' lived experiences
• Revise lessons so student assets deepen—not replace—grade-level rigor
• Celebrate students' community knowledge and lived experiences as sources of strength

In addition to the whole-faculty training, LHSSA sent two key staff members to deepen their expertise in special education support. Liesel Urban, Dean of Student Success, and Amelia Hessong, a second-year mathematics teacher, attended the Herzog Foundation's Special Education training.

The Herzog Foundation Institute provides specialized training through three series—Leadership Development, Organizational Development, and Teacher Development—all designed to sustain growth in Christian education. The special education training equips educators with strategies and resources to better serve students with diverse learning needs within a Christ-centered educational framework.

This investment in specialized training reflects LHSSA's commitment to ensuring all students receive the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

These professional development opportunities represent more than just required training hours—they demonstrate LHSSA's dedication to nurturing faith and pursuing excellence with our students. By investing in faculty growth, the school ensures that teachers have the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to create classrooms where every student is known, valued, and challenged to lead lives of impact to the glory of Jesus Christ. 
​
As LHSSA faculty implement these new strategies and insights, the entire Mustang community benefits from educators who are committed to both excellence and equity in the classroom.

At Lutheran High School of San Antonio, service isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. On our annual Service Day, the Mustang community stepped out of the classroom and into action, living out our mission to lead lives of impact to the glory of Jesus Christ by serving others. Students, teachers, and staff spread across San Antonio and the Hill Country, lending their hands and hearts to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Several of our chapel families headed to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, a local organization dedicated to building and delivering beds for children who don’t have one. Mustangs measured, sanded, drilled, and assembled dozens of bed frames, learning that even small acts of craftsmanship can carry deep meaning. Each bed represented more than wood and screws—it was a gift of rest, dignity, and love.

Other chapel families traveled to Hill Country Daily Bread, where students sorted, packed, and distributed food for families in need. Working alongside volunteers and staff, Mustangs helped organize the food pantry, assemble care packages, and prepare donations for delivery. Through this hands-on experience, students saw how their time and teamwork could bring hope to those facing food insecurity.

Still other chapel families rolled up their sleeves to take care of the home they all share. Crews spread fresh mulch in flower beds, repainted parking lot lines, and helped with maintenance on the soccer and football fields. Their efforts not only beautified the grounds but also strengthened the sense of pride and stewardship that defines the Mustang community.

Service Day is a reminder that the classroom extends far beyond four walls. By serving both the wider community and their own campus, our students learned that faith becomes most powerful when it moves from words to deeds.

Lutheran High School of San Antonio is proud of our students for their hard work, joyful spirit, and servant hearts. Together, they lived out the truth of 1 Peter 4:10:
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

The halls of Lutheran High School of San Antonio were recently filled with laughter and creativity scent as chapel families gathered for our annual Pumpkin Competition. What began as a simple fall activity has transformed into a reminder of why chapel families are such a vital part of the LHS experience. 

At first glance, a pumpkin decorating contest might seem like just another fun school tradition. But for our students, it represents something much deeper—an opportunity to work together, support one another, and strengthen the bonds that make chapel families so special.

Each chapel family approached the challenge with enthusiasm and imagination. Some groups huddled together, brainstorming elaborate designs, while others dove right in with paint brushes and creative additions. The result? An incredible display of creativity that showcased not just artistic talent, but the unique personality of each chapel family.

For those new to LHS, chapel families are a cornerstone of our school community. Meeting twice a week in groups of about 12 students, these families create a space where students from different grade levels, sports teams, and clubs come together to grow in faith and character. When a student arrives at Lutheran High School, they're placed in a chapel family where they'll remain throughout their time here. It's a place where freshmen connect with seniors, where athletes bond with artists, and where students meet peers they might not otherwise spend time with in their daily routines.

In chapel families, students pray together, share snacks, and explore their Christian faith through devotions and meaningful conversations. These groups become an important home at school—a support system that helps students navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories of high school life.

The pumpkin competition perfectly illustrates what makes chapel families so valuable. As students collaborated on their designs—deciding on themes, dividing up tasks, and problem-solving together—they weren't just creating decorated pumpkins. They were building positive relationships, learning to work as a team, and experiencing the joy that comes from accomplishing something creative together.
Whether a chapel family created a funny design, an intricate representation of a favorite character, or a painted masterpiece, every pumpkin told a story of students coming together. Some groups discovered hidden artistic talents among their members. Others learned patience as they worked through challenging details. All of them experienced the satisfaction of creating something as a team.

At Lutheran High School of San Antonio, we believe in providing a foundation for a life of impact. Our mission is to develop followers of Christ who work as the hands and feet of Jesus, critical thinkers prepared for an evolving world while rooted in Biblical truths, and willing young adults ready to serve others. Chapel families are essential to this mission. Through activities like the pumpkin competition—and in the everyday moments of prayer, fellowship, and faith-building—students learn what it means to be part of a Christian community. They discover their God-given talents, practice servant leadership, and build the character that will serve them far beyond their high school years.

Lutheran High School's mission is to nurture faith and pursue excellence so that our students may lead lives of impact to the glory of Jesus Christ. This mission came to life in remarkable ways this year as 24 of our students earned recognition from the College Board as AP Scholars—a testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to academic excellence.

Each fall, the College Board's AP Program recognizes high school students who have demonstrated outstanding college-level achievement through their performance on multiple AP Exams. These awards come in several levels:

• AP Scholar is awarded to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP Exams—demonstrating solid college-level mastery across multiple subject areas.
• AP Scholar with Honor requires students to achieve an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, along with scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams—reflecting both breadth and consistent high performance.
• AP Scholar with Distinction, the highest level achieved by our students, is granted to those who receive an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams—a truly exceptional accomplishment that demonstrates sustained excellence across a rigorous course load.

These distinctions represent more than test scores; they reflect countless hours of study, intellectual curiosity, and the perseverance to tackle college-level coursework while still in high school.

A Community of Excellence Across All Grade Levels
The success of our AP Scholars spans the breadth of our student body, demonstrating that the pursuit of excellence is woven into the fabric of Lutheran High School at every level.

• Senior Class: A Legacy of Achievement
  
  • Our Class of 2025 led the way with an impressive 15 AP Scholars, including five students who earned the prestigious AP Scholar with Distinction award. One senior achieved AP Scholar with Honor recognition. These graduating students exemplify what it means to pursue excellence while maintaining their commitment to faith and service. As they prepare to step into their futures, they carry with them the values and academic foundation that will enable them to lead lives of impact in their colleges, careers, and communities.
• Juniors: Rising to the Challenge
  
  • Seven of our 11th grade students earned AP Scholar recognition, demonstrating the strong academic culture that continues to grow within each class. These juniors have shown remarkable commitment to challenging themselves academically while balancing the many responsibilities of high school life. Their achievement positions them well as they prepare for their senior year and college applications ahead.
• Sophomores: An Exceptional Start
  
  • Perhaps most impressive is the achievement of our 10th grade class, where two students earned AP Scholar with Distinction honors—the highest level of recognition among our sophomore scholars—while two others earned AP Scholar status. These young students have demonstrated extraordinary initiative and capability, setting a high bar for themselves and inspiring their peers to embrace academic challenge early in their high school journey.

Excellence Rooted in Faith
These achievements reflect more than academic ability; they represent the fruit of a community committed to nurturing both faith and intellectual growth. Our AP Scholars have shown that pursuing excellence in the classroom and living out one's faith are not competing values but complementary callings.

As we celebrate these 24 outstanding students, we give thanks to God for the gifts He has placed within each of them. We also recognize the support of families, the dedication of our faculty, and the encouragement of our entire school community. Together, we continue help build a firm foundation of knowledge, character, and faith for our students—not for accolades alone, but so that they may lead lives of impact to the glory of Jesus Christ.
​
Congratulations to all of our AP Scholars. Your achievement honors God, inspires your peers, and sets a standard of excellence for Lutheran High School of San Antonio.

When most students think about their weekend plans, they might picture relaxing or hanging out with friends. For Lutheran High School student Carson, weekends mean training rides, fundraising efforts, and preparing to make a real difference in the fight against multiple sclerosis.

Carson has reached an impressive milestone in her fundraising efforts for the National MS Society, raising $3,525 as she prepares for this weekend's bike ride. Her dedication has far exceeded her initial goal of $2,500, demonstrating the enthusiasm and support she's generated throughout the Lutheran High School community and beyond.

This won't be Carson's first time participating in an MS bike ride. As a returning participant, she brings not only experience but a deepened commitment to the cause. Over the past two years, Carson has formed meaningful connections with the MS community, including a friendship with Karen—a mother of two, wife, doctor, and inspiring individual who lives with and rides with MS. Karen's team has been incredibly supportive of Carson's efforts, and through these interactions, Carson has witnessed firsthand how fundraising dollars make a difference by funding research for treatments and providing vital support to those living with MS.

The training regimen requires dedication and discipline—qualities Carson demonstrates both on and off the bike. Early morning rides, weekend training sessions, and careful attention to nutrition and recovery have all become part of her routine as she prepares to meet the physical demands of these challenging events.

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body. The National MS Society supports research efforts to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure, while also providing programs and services for people living with MS.

By participating in MS bike rides, Carson joins thousands of cyclists across the country who are turning their passion for cycling into meaningful action against this disease.

Carson's fundraising success reflects not only her own dedication but also the mission of Lutheran High School to help students build a solid foundation of knowledge, character, and faith so that they are prepared to make a positive impact in their community.

As Carson prepares for this weekend's ride, the Lutheran High School community celebrates her commitment to service, her athletic dedication, and her compassion for those affected by MS. Her journey illustrates how one student's efforts can create ripples of impact far beyond the finish line.

To learn more about the National MS Society or to support research efforts, visit nationalmssociety.org.

This Sunday, September 21st, marks National Back to Church Sunday, which happens annually on the 3rd Sunday of September. The National Back to Church Sunday theme for 2025 is "Life Is Better Together," a timely message in a world where loneliness and disconnection are all too common. 

National Back to Church Sunday, which started in 2009, is "the largest community-based outreach effort in the nation". It's a wonderful opportunity for anyone who may be searching for a church home, looking to reconnect with their faith, or simply curious about what worship offers.

As part of the Lutheran High School community, we're blessed to have five wonderful Lutheran congregations who are a part of our association. Whether you're looking for traditional liturgical worship, contemporary services, or a close-knit community feel, these congregations offer warm welcomes to visitors.

Concordia Lutheran Church

• Location: 16801 Huebner Rd, San Antonio, TX 78258

• Sundays @ 8 am / 9:30 am / 11 am
  
• ​https://www.concordia.cc/
  

Crown of Life Lutheran Church

• An Evangelical Lutheran congregation in Stone Oak, on the north side of San Antonio, Texas. Crown of Life is a member of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
• Divine Service at 8:00 am and 10:45 am
• https://www.crownoflifesa.org/
  

Mount Calvary Lutheran Church

• Mt. Calvary is a traditionally worshiping Lutheran congregation in the heart of San Antonio
• Sunday Divine Service is at 10:00 AM every week. Sunday School for all ages is at 8:45 AM
• https://mtcsa.org/
  

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church

• Shepherd of the Hills is located in the medical center at 6914 Wurzbach Road
• ​Saturday Contemporary: 6 pm, Sunday Classic Hymn: 9 am Sunday Modern Hymn: 10:30 am
• https://www.shepherdlutheran.com/
  

 Messiah Lutheran Church - Boerne

• Located just north of San Antonio in Boerne at 9401 Dietz-Elkhorn Road

• Bible class at 9:15 am followed by worship at 10:30. 
• https://www.messiahboerne.org/
  

Additional Congregations 
St. John's Lutheran Church - Boerne

• Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM
• 315 Rosewood Ave., Boerne, TX 78006
• https://www.stjohnlutheran.com/
  

Our Savior Lutheran Church

• 11503 Vance Jackson San Antonio, Texas 78230
• Worship time Sundays @ 9:00 am
  

• https://www.osl-sa.org/ 

Trinity Grace Church

• Meets in our own Lutheran High School gymnasium
• Worship at 10:00 am
• https://www.trinitygracesa.org/

Oak Hills Church

• A nondenominational church right down the road from Lutheran High School
• Location: 19595 W IH 10, San Antonio, TX 78257
• https://www.oakhillschurch.com/

This is a great opportunity to remind your neighbors, co-workers, and friends that the Church is still a place of love, community, healing, and hope. This Back to Church Sunday, why not visit one of these wonderful congregations and discover how "Life Is Better Together" in Christian community?

Lutheran High School is proud to be part of this vibrant Lutheran community in San Antonio. Whether you're a current family looking to connect more deeply with a congregation or someone exploring faith for the first time, we encourage you to take advantage of this special Sunday to experience the warmth and welcome of Lutheran fellowship.

Two ambitious Lutheran High School students - Rehan Raj and Ben Storandt traded their typical Wednesday classroom setting for the bustling entrepreneurial ecosystem of Geekdom, to participate in San Antonio Startup Day to talk about their plan to redefine sleep. Dressed professionally in sharp business suits, these young entrepreneurs immersed themselves in the city's premier quarterly startup event, demonstrating that entrepreneurial spirit knows no age limits.

The students made the most of their time at the event, engaging with established entrepreneurs and industry veterans. Among their notable conversations was a meeting with the founder and CEO of Rent Bamboo, an investor-backed startup founded by a former UTSA student. This interaction provided them with firsthand insights into the journey from student entrepreneur to successful business leader. "We talked to various powerful and impactful people in the San Antonio startup ecosystem," one of the students noted, highlighting the diverse range of professionals they encountered throughout the day.

The young entrepreneurs caught the attention of event organizers, earning a feature on Geekdom's official social media as part of their "Pitch It to Win It" campaign. This recognition showcases not only their professional presentation but also their ability to stand out among a crowd of experienced business professionals.
​
Beyond networking, the students participated in educational sessions that provided practical business knowledge. They attended workshops focusing on startup financing, learning "how to get cash and credit for your startup," along with receiving what they described as "a free quick marketing and leadership lesson."

These learning opportunities represent exactly what San Antonio Startup Day aims to provide. According to event organizers, the quarterly gathering features "a full day of resources, networking, and expert-led talks to energize entrepreneurial ambitions."

Their presence at Geekdom, the downtown innovation hub, also connects them to Launch SA's mission of supporting local businesses and startups through resources and community engagement. These Lutheran High School students are breaking traditional barriers by actively participating in professional startup events typically attended by college graduates and seasoned entrepreneurs. Their initiative demonstrates that entrepreneurial education and networking can begin well before college, potentially giving them a significant advantage as they develop their business ideas and prepare for their future careers.

What sets these students apart is that they're not just playing entrepreneur – they're addressing real market needs. Their research into sleep disruption has led them to tackle temperature spikes that interrupt deep sleep cycles, environmental noise that prevents mental relaxation, and jolting wake-ups that cause cortisol spikes and day-long grogginess. You can find out more about their product at aurumsleep.co This level of market analysis and problem-solving demonstrates business acumen that extends far beyond typical high school projects.

As these young entrepreneurs return to their high school routine, they carry with them valuable connections, practical knowledge, and the confidence that comes from successfully navigating a professional business environment. Their experience at San Antonio Startup Day serves as an inspiring example for other students who may be considering entrepreneurship as part of their future plans.
Their story also highlights the accessibility of San Antonio's startup community and its willingness to welcome and nurture entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey – from high school students with big dreams to seasoned professionals launching their next venture.

The Mustang Riders club at Lutheran High School is back and hit the ground running with their first lesson of the year Friday, September 5. Students had the opportunity to work hands-on with horses while learning the fundamentals of riding in what proved to be an exciting and educational experience for all involved.

The club offers students a unique chance to develop horsemanship skills, build confidence, and connect with these magnificent animals in a supportive environment. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some riding experience, the Mustang Riders welcome students of all skill levels.

"It was a great afternoon working with horses and learning to ride," shared the club organizers, highlighting the positive energy and enthusiasm that marked the first session.

Looking ahead, the club has scheduled their next lesson for October 17th, giving interested students another opportunity to join this growing community. The timing is perfect for students who may have missed the first session or are still considering whether to participate.

For students interested in joining the Mustang Riders, no prior experience is necessary. The club is designed to accommodate beginners and provide a welcoming introduction to the world of horses and riding.

To learn more about the Mustang Riders club or to sign up for the October 17th lesson, students can contact Ms. Urban at [email protected]. 

This past weekend, our Lutheran High School community witnessed a beautiful testament to our mission of nurturing faith that builds a firm foundation. Andrew Entzenberger and his wife Danielle (also an LHS alum) brought their daughter to be baptized in a ceremony that perfectly embodied how faith foundations built at LHS ripple through generations.

The Entzenberger family story beautifully illustrates the interconnected nature of our Lutheran community. Andrew's faith journey began at Concordia Lutheran Church and School, while Danielle grew up at Shepherd of the Hills. Both found their paths converging at Lutheran High School, where they not only received an excellent education but were equipped with the spiritual foundation that would guide their adult lives.

Today, as Andrew serves on our faculty, he continues the cycle of faith formation that once shaped his own character. The firm foundation of faith that Andrew and Danielle received during their LHS years is now being passed along to their daughter, demonstrating the lasting impact of Christian education that extends far beyond graduation day.

What made this baptism particularly special was the overwhelming support from the broader LHS family. Current students, fellow faculty members, and alumni gathered to celebrate with the Entzenbergers, creating a living picture of our school's mission in action. This gathering wasn't just about one family's milestone—it was a reminder of how Lutheran High School creates bonds that last a lifetime and a community that shows up for one another in life's most meaningful moments.

At Lutheran High School, we believe that nurturing faith isn't just about classroom instruction or chapel services—it's about creating an environment where students can develop a personal relationship with Christ that will sustain them through all of life's seasons. The Entzenberger family exemplifies what it means to live a "life of impact" as graduates who continue to serve their community, raise their children in faith, and contribute to the next generation of Christian leaders.

As we watched Heidi receive the waters of baptism, surrounded by the love and prayers of her extended LHS family, we were reminded that our work as educators goes far beyond preparing students for college and careers. We are partners with parents in raising young people who will make a difference in their families, churches, and communities for years to come. Stories like the Entzenbergers' remind us why our mission matters. When we invest in nurturing the faith of our students, we're not just impacting one generation—we're planting seeds that will bear fruit in families yet to come. Heidi's baptism is a celebration of new life in Christ, but it's also a celebration of the continuing legacy of faith that flows through our Lutheran High School community.
​
Congratulations to Andrew, Danielle, and baby Heidi! May God bless your family as you continue to grow in faith together, and thank you for being such a beautiful example of lives lived with lasting impact.