by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal This year I have the privilege of participating in an intensive principal training program based in Chicago called Principal 360. Over the course of the year, I will complete five courses led by educational experts through bi-weekly online classes and three in-person sessions in Chicago. The program culminates in a […]
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The Best of the LEST
by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal LEST stands for the Lutheran Elementary Schools Tournament, which occurred in mid February in Tacoma. This year’s tournament was truly outstanding, filled with energy, school spirit, and success. I was incredibly proud of how our students represented Hope and worked hard to share the gifts God has given them. Of all the favorite […]
Cheerful Encouragement
by Kristen Warfield, Hope preschool teacher and cheerleading coach The annual Lutheran Elementary Schools Tournament (LEST) is one of the most exciting times in the middle school year. There are so many activities at the tournament spanning arts, academics and athletics – and everyone in grades 5-8 is encouraged to participate. As Hope’s cheerleading coach, […]
All In For Hope!
By Kristen Fluke (Co-VP of PTH) When you hear casino night, you might think of flashing lights, clinking chips, and taking a chance. But we’re not betting on luck — we’re betting on our kids. This year’s school auction theme, All In for Hope, is a reminder that the most meaningful wins in life don’t […]
Celebrating Lutheran Schools Week: A Legacy Worth Honoring
by Sally Heit, Director of Marketing/Communication This week, Hope School proudly celebrates Lutheran Schools Week—a time to recognize the lasting impact of Lutheran education across the country and to give thanks for the mission we share. It’s a legacy worth celebrating. Lutheran schools have a long and meaningful history rooted in faith, access, and excellence in […]
We’ve Got You
By Tim Caudle, 8th grade homeroom teacher Last Monday was a difficult day for me. On Sunday, our family said goodbye to our oldest son as he flew back to college. After 18 years of daily life together, that goodbye is still not easy. Also over the weekend, I learned that one of my high school […]
WOH, Tuesday, January 13, 2025 – Rising to the Challenge
by Kristen Okabayashi, principal Rising to the Challenge – LEST here we come! Students in grades 5–8 are preparing now to compete in the annual Lutheran Elementary Schools Tournament (L.E.S.T.) next month! The first L.E.S.T. was held in 1962 at Concordia University–Portland with just four schools competing in a basketball tournament. Over the years, the […]
WOH, Tuesday January 6, 2026
by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal Happy New Year Hope families! I’m praying you all had relaxing and recharging time off. As we step into 2026, I’m grateful for all of you and your role in our Hope school community. From all of us at Hope, thank you so much to our PTH and our parents […]
WOH December 16, 2025 – Merry Christmas!
by Kristen Okabayashi, Hope Principal As we step further into the Christmas season, we are reminded what a special time of year this is for our school community. December brings a sense of joy, reflection, and togetherness, and we are grateful to share these moments with your children each day as we prepare to celebrate […]
WOH, Tuesday, December 9, 2025 – Joy to the World!
by Patra Mueller, Family Life Minister I love this time of year as we prepare for Christmas. What a delight to walk into a store and hear the words of our favorite Christmas carols. One of my favorites is Joy to the World. I love the reminder that God sent Jesus into the world to offer […]
