WLA Update: Moving Forward in Faith
Winnebago Lutheran Academy’s Plenary Board gathered on November 10, 2026, to review ministry updates, celebrate God’s blessings, and discuss the next steps toward a new campus.
The board approved moving forward with the construction bidding timeline, with bids due December 15. Following a review of those bids, the Plenary Board will reconvene on Wednesday, January 13, 2027, at 7 p.m. to discuss and vote on proceeding with groundbreaking.
The goal remains to begin construction in spring 2027 and complete the campus in August 2028, God willing.
Plans call for an approximately 135,000-square-foot campus featuring a chapel and auditorium, modern classrooms, an agriculture classroom and lab, welcoming commons, and a gym slightly larger than WLA’s current gym. The initial project also includes campus infrastructure and grass practice areas. Outdoor competition facilities and a second gym are outside the current project’s scope.
Site preparation continues, with utilities and water installation completed and grading underway. The WLA agriculture group has also helped care for the property through soybean production, invasive plant removal, tree planting, and other improvements.
At the time of the meeting, reported fundraising totaled approximately $18.4 million, with a goal of reaching $25 million in cash and pledges by December 31, 2026. The estimated campus cost is $45–50 million, pending construction bids. Fundraising results and bid amounts will help determine whether adjustments to the design are necessary.
Congregational presentations and donor conversations continue as WLA invites its entire association to participate. Mission advancement efforts also support annual operations, student aid, donor relationships, alumni engagement, business partnerships, and community events.
Life at the Academy remains active, with student accomplishments in athletics and the arts, preparations for the annual Christmas Celebration, Senior Service Day on December 1, and a two-week experiential learning term following Christmas break.
Through every step, WLA remains centered on its mission: nurturing students to live as Christ’s children within their families, congregations, and communities. We invite the WLA family to continue praying, giving, and sharing updates as we move forward together in faith.
