A Faithful Presence ~ Honoring Peter Baur

"Peter’s influence on me as a teacher, a man, and a friend is a significant hallmark in my life. Peter has not only impacted me, but many others as well. The way he went about leading us along, getting input from every corner of our community to develop the Basic Understandings, was done with true leadership acumen that let everyone have a say. This clarity has been vital to the life of the school and to the greater Christian Classical community. Thank you Peter. Thank you for your service to FCS and the lasting input in my life."

"When I first met Peter (when I was starting as a math teacher at FCS) I came home and immediately told my husband, "This is one of the best leaders I have ever personally known. I would follow him anywhere!" Every meeting we have together, he always asks, 'Mrs. Brown, how are you?' and he truly means it. He cares deeply about his people and always puts our spiritual, emotional, and physical health as a top priority. I am the leader that I am today because of Peter's leadership. I am not half the leader that Peter is, but anything great I learned about leadership came from him (and Tess).

"Twelve years ago, by the providence of God, Peter Baur was called to Faith Christian for “such a time as this” and he has faithfully answered that call. There is no greater tribute I can give than to state Peter Baur is a man of God! His legacy is how his faithful leadership and his steadfast Christian witness have strengthened FCS’ academic rigor while keeping FCS unapologetically Christian.

"Peter leads like a shepherd, caring for each of his sheep professionally and personally. I appreciate his kindness, generosity, encouragement and care for each person he encounters in an unhurried manner. Faith Christian School is a more grace-filled community with a better understanding of what is good, true and beautiful thanks to Peter’s leadership.

"The element of gratitude that he has included through communications and events like the Thanksgiving service with families has made a difference in teacher's lives and the relationship with families. The level of respect that the faculty and staff have for Peter is the beyond measure. Only God will know the true impact of his service at FCS, but I know it is significant. "

"Peter was always my biggest cheerleader with all projects. He walked with me, the school, and families on their spiritual journeys. Peter, you made and continue to make a lasting impression on my life and my job. Thank you for your time and for teaching me how to become the best I could be. You showed selfless humbleness to give others credit and tireless energy to making every facet of the school better. You will be deeply missed, and I hope you know you have made a lasting impact on the school community."

"Sometimes, when my dad had to come in on snow days, Mr. Baur and I enjoyed running around the office, throwing hacky sacks at each other, often throwing them relatively hard where bruises and thumps were felt and heard around the office. Mr. Baur and I had many talks in his office. I would sit in his chair and we would talk about college soccer and his experiences doing so. He deeply encouraged me to strive to get the best out of school and soccer at the collegiate level while using time management to the best of my ability. Mr. Baur, keep having fun with the ones around you because they look up to you, just like I did growing up."" "

"When we first came to Faith, my oldest was in first grade and it was our very first year at the school. She was asked to present a timeline project for Are You My Mother? in front of the entire school. Mr. Baur stood beside her at the podium the whole time, a calm and steady presence. Afterwards, he wrote her a handwritten card telling her how proud he was. She still has that card today. His presence and encouragement meant so much and made me even more thankful to be at FCS. I have always left meetings with him feeling valued and heard. He never chose the easy path, but instead asked thoughtful questions, sought godly counsel, and made decisions he believed were in the best interest of the school. "

"Mr. Baur, I just wanted to thank you for all of the time that you have spent at Faith. I know that you have left such a special impact on this place. One of my favorite memories was when you sat down with me before a huge interview, practicing strategies to help sell my time at Faith Christian to the panel that was interviewing me. This short session changed the way I have viewed every interview that I step into. From the clothes that I wear to the manner in which I carry my body movements, you changed the way I have chosen to conduct myself. Congratulations on stepping into this new season of life, sir.""

It's hard for me to summarize the 10 years that I have known Mr. Baur. From the beginning, he has served as an example of kindness and intellect. His ability to offer sound guidance and strong support in any situation is truly remarkable, and I still reflect on words he has spoken to me after many years. Whether it was my completion of Faith's curriculum, navigating dating scenarios, the three years I spent as staff, my brief service as Interim Facilities Director, or even a shared attendance at funerals, Mr. Baur's words and gestures have impacted me greatly. I am beyond thankful for his service to this school, but I am even more thankful for the lasting impact he has had on me""

Mr. Baur was an incredibly enjoyable person to have as the 11th grade boys' advisor. The activity we landed upon: launching model rockets on the warrior field. It was very fun, and I had a blast getting to light the fuse and watch as the rocket soared into the air. I believe what makes Mr. Baur so special and why he'll be so missed is that he has become an innate part of FCS. He is approachable, good-natured, and interested in you as an individual. Mr. Baur, you will be deeply missed, and I hope you know you have made a lasting impact on the school community."

"Peter- In just a short time, you have made a lasting impression that will not be forgotten. I am so grateful to have been able to work with you over this past year. I pray that you and Lois get to enjoy time with your family, children, and grandchildren. Thank you for letting me be on this journey with you! Forever grateful.""