Celebrating 121 Years: The Closing of St John’s Lutheran School, Eudunda
The closing service of St John’s Lutheran School, Eudunda, held on 11 December 2025, brought together past and present members of the school community to give thanks for 121 years of faith, learning and community.
The morning began with fellowship over morning tea in the school hall, followed by the closing service at St John’s Lutheran Church, Eudunda. Students, staff, families, parish members and guests gathered to reflect, remember and honour the generations of students, staff, families and friends who have shaped the school’s story for more than a century. Former student and local historian, Samuel Doering, shared a detailed presentation on the 121-year history of St John’s, offering rich insight into the school’s beginnings, growth and ongoing significance within the Eudunda community.
During the service, School Board Chair, Alison Schutz reflected on the school’s journey, ‘St John’s has been a treasured part of the community for more than 121 years. Since 1904 it has faithfully served the Eudunda community—shaping generations of students through Christ-centred education, nurturing friendships and fostering excellence in learning.
‘The legacy of this place is extraordinary, and it has left an imprint on this town, this region and on every heart represented here today. We give thanks for that legacy and we honour all who have played a part in it.’
Alison also acknowledged the difficult decision to close the school, ‘The Board was faced with a deeply difficult and emotional decision this year. The decision to close St John’s was not taken lightly. It came amid significant enrolment decline, despite the unwavering dedication of our staff, families, parish, and the broader Lutheran education community.
‘This has been a historical moment—one filled with grief, but also one grounded in responsibility, faith, and care for the future of our children and community.’
Alison has shared a long connection with the school, beginning as a teacher in 2004 (Miss Hewett) before starting her family in 2013. She admits she never quite managed to leave with her regularly attending chapels and assemblies, celebrating exhibitions, returning as PYP Exhibition mentor, volunteer bus driver, relief teacher and a participant in the footy tipping competitions. In 2022, Alison joined the School Board and has served as the Board Chair for the past two years.
She reflected on a Bible verse presented to her when she was first installed as a staff member, ‘Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.’ Proverbs 3:5-6.
‘This verse has carried me through many seasons of joy and challenge here at St John’s, and it has certainly anchored me throughout this year,’ she said.
‘Today, those words feel especially fitting. As we close this chapter and look toward the future, we do so in trust—trust in God’s plans, his faithfulness, and his ability to work good even through difficult change.’
During the service, heartfelt thanks were expressed to all who have contributed to the life of the school over many years, including the LESNW leadership, the School Board, St John’s Lutheran Church, families and friends, and to the staff who have served the school community with dedication and care.
Special acknowledgement was given to the School Board: Chair Alison Schutz, Vice Chair Tyna Neuman, David Field, Julian Schubert, Katie I’Anson, Daniel Jenke, Julia Schutz and Chris Doecke for their extraordinary wisdom, courage and compassion.
Pastor Jacob Fabich was thanked for his spiritual guidance, and the Parish Council for their partnership and commitment.
Special appreciation was extended to staff Shelley Schild and Renae Ruediger, who stepped into the unprecedented role of Co-Teachers in Charge during the final year, and to Caroline Krause, who unexpectedly became Alison’s personal assistant and managed everything with remarkable efficiency and care.
Finally, gratitude was expressed to the whole school community for their support, understanding, and courage, and for the way they have carried one another through this year.
Alison concluded with a reflection: ‘May we hold tightly to gratitude — to our memories, to our faith, and to the legacy of a school that has shaped lives for 121 years.’
The St John’s Lutheran School, Eudunda closing service can be viewed online at:
https://streamadelaide.live/st-johns-closing-service
Further reflections and tributes honouring the school’s legacy, can be found on St John’s facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/stjohnseudunda
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