ST. LOUIS, MO — November 13, 2025 —

The Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA) is proud to announce that Melissa Bergholt, Principal at Word of Life Lutheran School, has been honored with the Jane and Mel Kieschnick Urban Education Leadership Award. The award, presented by the Center for Urban
Education Ministry (CUEM), recognizes outstanding leadership and a steadfast
commitment to Christian education in an urban setting.
Mrs. Bergholt has been an educator for nearly 25 years, including the past 12 years at
Word of Life. She has served eight (8) years as Principal. In addition to her current role
as principal, Mrs. Bergholt has taught 6th and 8th grade homeroom, middle school
math, and science. Known for her dedication to student success, she works tirelessly to
ensure her students grow both academically and spiritually.
CUEM recognized Mrs. Bergholt for transforming Word of Life into a thriving
multicultural environment for faith-based learning. She has implemented three key
strategies to strengthen cultural inclusion and support for students and families:
 Creating staff positions to help immigrant students and their families
successfully navigate school life at Word of Life.
 Providing professional development for staff focused on breaking down
cultural barriers and fostering inclusivity.
 Offering cultural learning opportunities for students both in the classroom and
through schoolwide cultural appreciation celebrations.
Through these initiatives—and by building partnerships with multiple churches and
community organizations—Mrs. Bergholt has helped Word of Life grow into a vibrant
school community representing students from 15 different countries.
As part of this recognition, Mrs. Bergholt received a special certificate and a $1,000
award from CUEM.
Mrs. Bergholt exemplifies LESA’s mission to equip families, Lutheran schools and faith
communities for dynamic, Christ-centered education, and LESA celebrates her ministry
to Lutheran schools.

About the Center for Urban Education Ministry (CUEM)
The Center for Urban Education Ministry (CUEM) is a nonprofit organization whose
mission is to “relentlessly strengthen urban education.” Guided by its core
values—Christian, Collaboration, Celebration, and Commitment—CUEM provides
professional development, resources, and recognition for outstanding educators who
embody these principles in their work.
About LESA
More than 9,700 children attend LESA-member Lutheran schools in the St. Louis Metro
Area, making Lutheran schools the second-largest private school system in the Bi-
State area. A Recognized Service Organization of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod,
LESA represents 38 elementary and high schools and five related agencies. For
more information, visit www.LESAstl.org.
# # #

Media Contact:
Amee Colvin
Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA)
acolvin@lesastl.org
314.200.0797, 314.750.4254-text

Ministries
Word of Life Lutheran School