Practicing Essentialism in Lutheran Schools - 6-12

In today’s fast-paced and increasingly distracted culture, even our Lutheran schools—rooted in centuries of tradition and a Christ-centered mission—are not immune to the pressures of doing more, adding more, and being everything to everyone. This session explores how the mindset of Essentialism—the disciplined pursuit of less but better—can help Lutheran educators refocus on what is truly essential: nurturing faith, developing character, and providing academic excellence in the light of the Gospel.

Brad Essig is the Building Principal at St. Croix Lutheran Academy and also serves as head coach of the varsity baseball team. He earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Martin Luther College in 2013 and completed his master’s degree in educational leadership from Concordia University, St. Paul in June 2024. Brad is grateful to be part of St. Croix’s outreach-focused ministry, working alongside a dedicated faculty and staff and serving a richly diverse student body. His previous roles include teaching grades 6–8 and serving as principal at Resurrection Lutheran School in Aurora, Illinois, as well as Middle School Director at SCLA. Brad and his wife, Kate, have been married for nine years and are the proud parents of two boys, Luca and Kyler.

Nate Kallies - St. Croix Lutheran Academy Principal for Enrollment and Engagement, Admissions

Nate is a 2003 graduate of Martin Luther College and a 2014 graduate of their master's program with a degree in educational leadership.  Nate has taught at St. Paul's, Cannon Falls, MN (2003-2009); St. Paul, Appleton, WI (2009-2017); and SCLA (2017-present).  Nate and his wife, Sara, have two grown girls - Olivia (2020 grad of SCLA) and Avery (2025 grad of SCLA).