Amanda Graham was selected to receive Lutheran Education Association’s 2020 Distinguished Lutheran Elementary Teacher Award. Ms. Graham teaches fourth grade at Central Lutheran School in New Haven, Indiana.
Amanda earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and is working on a degree as a reading specialist, both from Ball State University. She also completed the LCMS theological Colloquy Program. Amanda has served Central Lutheran her entire ten-year ministry.
In support of Amanda’s nomination, her principal said, “She is a dedicated teacher who puts in long hours preparing unique and fun lessons for her students. But her service extends beyond her classroom. Miss Graham is very active in her congregation, taking lead roles in Vacation Bible School and other congregation initiatives. She has lived out the great commission by serving on mission teams to Africa. Every aspect of her ministry is that of service for others in the name of our savior Jesus.”
One parent commented, “Amanda truly shines for Jesus not only in the classroom, but wherever she goes. As a teacher, she taught her class the value of working hard and helping others. There were many projects my daughter learned to work with others on (NOT all her friends), and was encouraged to problem solve with others, and how to use these skills in the real world. She encouraged out of the box thinking and I watched my daughter flourish and get excited about learning. Since then, Miss Graham is always there for my daughter to talk to, always there to listen, and ALWAYS there to pray for her.”
Amanda’s pastor said, “In 2018, Amanda volunteered to be a part of a Mission Team to Point of Grace Academy in Kisumu, Kenya. Accompanying myself and nine other team members, she used her teaching skills, participating in Vacation Bible School, home visits, and other activities that enabled her to communicate the Gospel and the love of Christ to over 600 students and others in need. It was a joy to have her there with such an upbeat attitude as she blended with the team and reached out to others with energy and compassion.”
Congratulations to Amanda on this special award!