Get to know our Principal

In July 2025, Mr. Jason Schapekahm joined our ministry at Mount Lebanon as our principal. He grew up in New Ulm, Minnesota where he lived for 23 years. After graduating from Martin Luther College in 2005, he received his first teaching assignment and has served here in Milwaukee for the past 20 years. In 2019, he received his master’s degree in school leadership from Wisconsin Lutheran College. He has been married to his wife, Lizette, for 20 years and God has blessed them with three children: Henry, Oliver, and Livia. We asked him a few questions to help you get to know him. You can read the full interview on our website.

What inspired you to become a principal, and what do you love most about leading a school?

I have always had an interest in leadership stories, mindsets, and the systems that make it all work, but originally stepped into the role of principal because my school had a need. I was grateful for the opportunity to serve in that way and have learned a lot since taking on that position in 2016. Previously, I had served full time in the classroom for 11 years, so it was also neat to have the opportunity to view ministry, through a completely different lens. 

I absolutely love seeing the growth and achievements of our scholars and of those I am privileged to serve alongside. I am continually amazed to see how God uniquely equips and blesses his people and uses them to impact others in such meaningful and life-changing ways. In a Lutheran school like ours, what an amazing opportunity, privilege, and blessing it is to share Jesus with our students and families every single day. 

What’s most important to you when working with students, staff, and families?

I pray that my interactions with others can help point them to Jesus. Aside from a focus on Christ, I think it would be to try to understand each person and situation as well as you can and especially from the perspective of the other person. Although having an understanding does not always change an outcome or what needs to happen next, it does open the door for compassion and grace, and often leads to a more gentle approach and response which is helpful to many situations. The reality is, everyone’s earthly journey is different, and as a result, will bring to each situation a unique perspective and lens based on their own beliefs, worldview, and experiences. As much as we would like to, it is never possible to fully know what another person is going through. You may think you know a person, situation, and even why something may be happening, but the reality is you may be completely wrong or just scratching the surface. So…know yourself and your impact…meet people where they are…and walk alongside them as Jesus did…with a servant mindset…humbly and gently.

What’s one thing about you that might surprise people at Mount Lebanon?

I don’t know if it would surprise anyone, but I have a difficult time throwing things away…especially if I think it may serve another purpose one day. And just for the record…most things can...sometimes with a little help. It brings me such joy when the day finally comes and I discover a use for an item I had been holding on to. I recently had that experience with an old metal towel holder I had sitting in my basement for the last 19+ years. Then the day finally came. I had a need…and an idea. I cut that thing apart and used it to repair the base of a small outdoor Christmas tree that is now standing strong again in my backyard. I was thrilled. 

Reflecting on your first half of the school year, what’s been the most rewarding or memorable experience so far?

I wouldn't say there has been a single “most rewarding or memorable experience,” but just a continuous appreciation, sense of gratitude, and awe for how our God has so richly blessed our congregation and school. We have such amazing, talented, and faithful people who are constantly striving to get better and do all of the “little things” that in the end make a big impact. We truly have been blessed beyond measure and I am excited to see God’s plans for the ministry here at Mount Lebanon as we continue to partner together to transform children and families for life and eternity.

What’s your favorite way to start the day or stay energized during a busy school day?

My favorite way to start a day is with coffee before the sun rises…when everything is quiet. It’s a time just to be still, to think, and to pray. Now as nice as that may sound to some, I must admit…I don’t do it as much as I’d like. Far too many mornings still start with an open computer instead…like this morning did…as I dropped off my vehicle for repair and now finish my responses to these questions from the Community Room of Mount Lebanon well before the sun comes up. With beautiful Christmas music playing in the background…I still love it though…as I watch the world slowly wake up to another day of God’s goodness and His grace.