Founder's Story

At the end of 2013, Laurel's founder, Alfrieda Baldwin, retired after practicing law for 32 years.  Starting a school was not on her "Bucket List," but God had other plans.  After spending a portion of her retirement time volunteering in various classrooms, she started to reflect on the outstanding, life-changing education she received from grades 4 through 8 at the Lutheran school she attended. During these volunteer opportunities, Alfrieda became curious about educational philosophies, curriculum, and pedagogy. Discovering Charlotte Mason, Marva Collins, and E.D. Hirsch during her research led her to believe a new Christ-centered educational option was needed. 

Alfrieda desired to establish a school that was accessible to families from all income levels. Her dream included offering a knowledge-rich curriculum delivered using the best instructional method for each subject. Above all, her vision was to create an educational setting filled with the fruit of the Spirit. Fostering a love for learning, giving children the chance to work and play alongside students who reflect the ethnic variety of the Twin Cities, and expose children to the Good News of Jesus Christ was the foundation of the vision that birthed Laurel Community School. 

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23