Sixth Grade

Other Information

Biography

Mr. Arndt graduated from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN, in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. He has taught combinations of 3rd through 8th grade for 30 years. He previously taught in Western Minnesota for 6 years, Wisconsin for 2 years, Illinois for 8 years, and is now in his 15th year back in Minnesota. He has served as a principal for 10 years in Wisconsin and Illinois. He currently teaches 5th-6th grade primarily and teaches a few 7th and 8th grade classes to allow principal-release time. He also serves as the Athletic Director for Good Shepherd.

5th-6th Grade Highlights

• Field trip to the Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America
• Field trip to Feed My Starving Children
• Field trip to the Minnesota State Capital and History Center
• Field trip to the River Rendezvous in Bloomington
• Field trip to the Science Museum
• National Geographic Geography Bee (Grades 5-8)
• School Spelling Bee (Grades 5-8)

Teaching Philosophy
The goal of my teaching, and the center of my philosophy, is training future leaders in Christ’s church. I would like to accomplish this goal by helping students gain necessary skills needed to become lifelong learners. Once they learn these skills, then they can apply them to all areas of life, including their life of service in Christ’s church.

Other Information

Biography

Mrs. Birkholz graduated from Martin Luther College in 1997 with a BS in elementary
education (English concentration). She first taught 3rd grade at Crown of Life in W. St.
Paul, followed by preschool at Shepherd of the Hills in Inver Grove Heights. Additional
education experience includes teaching for the St. Croix Lutheran Academic (SCLA)
summer ESL program, serving on the Bloomington Lutheran School accreditation
board, and substitute teaching for area WELS Lutheran schools. As a volunteer, Mrs.
Birkholz leads the Women of Hope ministry program at Living Hope Lutheran and
serves on the SCLA Alumni Board. She lives in Savage with her husband, Josh, and
their three daughters.

5th and 6th Grade Highlights
● Avid classroom participation in prayer requests
● Individual and Group research projects on different cultures and people groups
● Active group discussion of thought-provoking literature
● Blossoming in self-expression through writing

Teaching Philosophy
Mrs. Birkholz believes every child is a gift from God and dearly loved by our Savior.
God has provided each Christian with unique gifts to serve His kingdom and the people
of the world. It is her greatest privilege to help students recognize and grow in these
gifts through academic study and daily encouragement.