|
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.
0 Comments
 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:
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.
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
Additional Congregations St. John's Lutheran Church - Boerne
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.  It is always a blessing to see LHS students and alumni living out our mission to develop students who will make a meaningful impact in their community to the glory of Jesus Christ. This summer, we're reminded of how powerfully that mission continues to ripple outward through the life and legacy of our alumni. The San Antonio Zoo will soon be home to the Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab – a groundbreaking 937-square-foot facility dedicated to coral conservation, research, restoration, and education.
The Brewer family's decision to be a part of this transformative gift demonstrates the servant heart that we strive to cultivate in all our students. The lab is slated to open in summer 2026 and will sit beside the Friedrich Aquarium, focusing on conservation, research, restoration, and education. Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse and threatened ecosystems on the planet and are vital to the global ecosystem. Rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and disease have devastated reefs globally," said Tim Morrow, president & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. The Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab will address this critical need by showcasing deep-water Texas and international coral species, featuring interactive elements including a touch tank that will engage visitors of all ages. Perhaps most significantly, the coral restoration program is part of a larger Association of Zoos & Aquariums initiative, which aims to cultivate corals for reintroduction off the Texas coast — specifically at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary — and internationally. This means the lab won't just educate visitors about conservation – it will actively participate in restoring damaged coral ecosystems. The Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab beautifully exemplifies how science and faith work together as complementary ways of knowing God's Truth. Rather than being antagonistic forces, scientific inquiry and Christian faith unite in revealing the intricate design and wonder of God's creation. Through rigorous marine research and conservation efforts, scientists can discover the remarkable complexity of coral ecosystems – each discovery serving as a testament to the Creator's wisdom and calling us to faithful stewardship of the natural world He has entrusted to our care. Alum Robert Brewer and his family have been a part of the Lutheran High School story since early in our existence. It is wonderful to see how early pioneers in our story exemplify the lasting impact of Lutheran High School graduates long after they leave our campus. His approach to marine science reflects the harmony between faith and scientific exploration – understanding that studying God's creation through scientific methods deepens our appreciation for divine truth and strengthens our calling as stewards of the earth. His dedication to education, his passion for stewardship of God's creation, and his family's commitment to continuing that legacy through meaningful philanthropy embody the values we hold dear. The Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab represents more than just a new attraction at the zoo – it represents how a love for learning and environmental stewardship can inspire countless visitors to care for our planet's precious ecosystems. Most importantly, it demonstrates how scientific research and Christian faith can work hand-in-hand, each enriching the other in the pursuit of God's Truth and the faithful care of His creation.  While most high school students are struggling to get enough sleep, a group of entrepreneurial Mustangs has taken a different approach—they're working to revolutionize sleep itself. Meet Aurum Sleep, an innovative startup founded by Lutheran High School San Antonio students with the ambitious goal to "Redefine Rest."
Aurum Sleep isn't just another student project—it's a sophisticated venture that addresses real problems millions of people face every night. The student founders identified three major sleep disruptors: overheating during the night, ambient noise, and jarring alarm clocks that spike cortisol levels. Their solution? A line of premium sleep masks that blend luxury materials with cutting-edge technology. Innovation Meets Comfort What sets Aurum Sleep apart in the crowded wellness market is their thoughtful integration of advanced features: Adaptive Thermal Control automatically adjusts the mask's temperature throughout the night, preventing overheating that can disrupt deep sleep cycles. No more waking up hot and restless. Bone-Conduction Audio delivers soothing soundscapes or guided meditations directly through bone conduction technology, allowing users to relax while still remaining aware of their environment—perfect for parents who need to hear their children or anyone concerned about safety. Gentle Sunrise Wake Light simulates natural dawn to provide a soft, gradual awakening that minimizes the cortisol spikes associated with traditional alarm clocks, helping users start their day feeling refreshed rather than jarred awake. A Product Line for Every Sleeper The student entrepreneurs have demonstrated impressive market understanding by developing four distinct product tiers: Aurum Core ($89): "Better Sleep for Everyone" - A foundational model focused on comfort and basic light-blocking with premium materials. Aurum Natural ($129): "Nature Meets Rest" - Appeals to eco-conscious consumers with organic fabrics, sustainable packaging, and built-in aromatherapy features. Aurum Travel ($159): "Rest, Anywhere" - Designed for frequent travelers with a compact, foldable design, noise-dampening capabilities, and a portable charging case. Aurum Max ($299): "Rest, Elevated" - The flagship model featuring high-end silk exterior, customizable hardware, and app-driven personalization for the ultimate sleep experience. Strategic Business Thinking Beyond the impressive technology, Aurum Sleep showcases sophisticated business acumen. The team has developed a sleep-finder quiz to help customers identify their ideal mask, demonstrating customer-centric thinking. Their direct-to-consumer launch strategy, complete with a password-protected website and exclusive waitlist, builds anticipation while gathering valuable market data. The positioning of "Luxury Meets Science" places them at the intersection of wellness and technology—two of the fastest-growing consumer sectors. Lutheran High School's Impact This venture exemplifies the innovative spirit that Lutheran High School San Antonio cultivates in its students. The combination of entrepreneurial thinking, technical problem-solving, and market awareness didn't happen by accident—it's the result of an educational environment that encourages students to think beyond traditional boundaries. These student entrepreneurs aren't just building a business; they're addressing a universal human need with creativity, scientific understanding, and genuine care for improving people's lives. Looking to the FutureAs Aurum Sleep prepares for their market launch, the possibilities seem endless. With hints at companion app development and potential for sleep data tracking, these students are positioning themselves at the forefront of the sleep-tech revolution. The success of ventures like Aurum Sleep and StarForm 3D demonstrates that our students aren't just preparing for their future careers—they're already creating them. For more information about Aurum Sleep or to join their waitlist, visit aurumsleep.co or follow them on Instagram @aurumsleepco. The Mustang Express is proud to showcase the innovative entrepreneurial spirit of our students. These ventures represent the best of what Lutheran High School San Antonio stands for: excellence, innovation, and service to others. Innovation Lab at Lutheran High School San Antonio has always been a place where students can explore their passions and turn creative ideas into reality. This year, one of our students has taken that mission to heart, using his Genius Grant to launch StarForm 3D, a 3D printing business.
The student entrepreneur behind StarForm 3D has leveraged the resources and mentorship available through Lutheran High School's innovative programs to build something truly impressive. By combining technical skills learned in the classroom with real-world business acumen, he's created a venture that serves both individual customers and commercial clients. StarForm 3D offers two distinct service paths for customers. Those with specific ideas can work directly with the team to bring custom concepts to life, while customers who need inspiration can browse through a carefully curated collection of "tried-and-true, tested, and loved pre-modeled products that are ready to go." This dual approach demonstrates sophisticated business thinking, addressing different customer needs while maximizing the company's potential market reach. This success story exemplifies exactly what Innovation Lab was designed to achieve. By providing students with dedicated time, resources, and mentorship to pursue their passions, the program creates an environment where entrepreneurial dreams can flourish alongside academic excellence. The Genius Grant program has proven instrumental in this journey, providing a space where students can transform a classroom project into a legitimate business venture. It's a powerful reminder that when we invest in our students' innovative thinking, the results can exceed our wildest expectations. For those interested in learning more about StarForm 3D or placing an order, the company can be reached through their website at starform3d.com, or their Facebook page. |
Archives
October 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed
