SD Swasta Latihan YP HKBP is a vibrant and growing Christian primary school of 336 students and 27 staff. Each year the school welcomes more children, reflecting the trust of families and the strong leadership of its new principal, Lasmaria Evelina Sinagah, who has served in the role for ten months. Previously Vice Principal at […]

SD Swasta Latihan YP HKBP is a vibrant and growing Christian primary school of 336 students and 27 staff. Each year the school welcomes more children, reflecting the trust of families and the strong leadership of its new principal, Lasmaria Evelina Sinagah, who has served in the role for ten months. Previously Vice Principal at a senior high school an hour away, she stepped into this new position with a deep sense of calling rooted in her faith, and a commitment to strengthen both academic quality and Christian identity.

One of her first priorities was to reshape the learning environment. Previously, one teacher handled all subjects for a class. Now, teachers specialise across curriculum areas- a change that has improved teaching quality and allowed staff to use their God-given gifts more intentionally. She also introduced morning devotions, inviting pastors to share God’s Word and giving students space to express their gifts in singing and dancing. Parents warmly welcomed these changes, particularly her encouragement for children to participate in sports, science competitions, and cultural activities.

Lasmaria’s passion for Christian education is deeply shaped by her own spiritual journey. Growing up within Huria Kristen Indonesia, (HKI), later attending a Chinese Reformed Church, and then being formed through the ministry of The Salvation Army, she experienced first-hand how different Christian traditions nurture the faith of children. These ecumenical influences convinced her that Christian education is strongest when the whole Body of Christ shares its gifts with one another. She even draws inspiration from the Catholic school her children attend, observing how they weave faith through every subject, and has adapted these strengths to her SD Swasta Latihan YP HKBP school context.

“Our leader is Jesus,” she says, “so everything should point to Him.”
Her vision is that every subject (not only Christian Studies) reflects Christian values and the transforming hope of the gospel.

Yet leadership has not been easy. When she entered the role, teacher discipline was low, and some parents urged her to immediately terminate staff they considered underperforming. Lasmaria resisted these pressures. “I prayed,” she said, “and I remembered that each person is loved by God.” Rather than remove teachers, she chose the slower and more grace-filled path of mentoring, accountability, and rebuilding trust. She implemented punctuality expectations and a reward-and-consequence system, even when this resulted in complaints against her. But through what she describes as “God’s grace sustaining my heart and mind”, teachers have gradually grown, attitudes have shifted, and families now see real improvement.

The school continues to face practical challenges. Indonesian BOS (School Operational Assistance) funding supports maintenance and student needs, but offers nothing for teacher development. Computers are scarce, limiting student participation in online science competitions and restricting teachers’ access to government-supported online training. Often, the principal brings her own family’s computer so students do not miss out.

It is in these moments where the school is learning most deeply what it means to rely on God. For the principal, reliance on God is not abstract. It is experienced in daily prayers for wisdom, in courage to make difficult decisions, and in the quiet assurance that God is present in every classroom, conversation, and child.

In this context, partnership matters deeply. Unity College in Murray Bridge, SA has a connection with SD Swasta Latihan YP HKBP. Partnership is not merely an exchange of resources; it is an expression of the unity we share in Christ. When we pray for one another, encourage one another, and strengthen each other’s ministries, we participate in God’s mission together. The hope is that their cooperation will embody the unity of Christ’s body and help this school in Indonesia flourish in their mission.

As Lasmaria reflects, “Everything that has happened is only because of God’s grace.” She sees God guiding her leadership, shaping her through challenge, and nurturing a school where children (whether from stable homes or broken ones) are welcomed, supported, and taught the love of Jesus.

Schools interested in connecting with the mission of God through an LCA International Mission service-learning and ministry partnership are invited to phone Erin on 0447 354 122 or email erin.kerber@lca.org.au. For more information, visit www.lcamission.org.au/join-gods-mission/service-learning/

Read more stories about school partnerships and school service-learning at www.lcamission.org.au/category/stories/local-partners/schools/