A Legacy of Grace: Celebrating Mrs. Diane Selvig’s Retirement

After 35 remarkable years in the classroom, Hillcrest Lutheran Academy is celebrating the retirement of a beloved teacher, mentor, and prayer warrior—Mrs. Diane Selvig. Her name has become synonymous with grace, faithfulness, and an unwavering commitment to the hearts and minds of young students. Though this marks her second retirement, her legacy of discipleship and partnership with families continues to echo through the halls of the Lower School and into the lives of generations she has shaped.

Great schools are made great not simply by their programs or buildings, but by teachers like Mrs. Selvig—educators who understand that teaching is more than transferring information. It’s guiding children to know God more deeply, helping them discover who they are, and encouraging them to walk confidently in the unique giftings and callings He has placed on their lives. Diane has modeled this with gentle persistence, consistent prayer, and remarkable humility.

Four years ago, after retiring from decades of full-time teaching, Diane heard the Lord’s whisper calling her back. She returned to the classroom part-time to co-teach 1st grade alongside her dear friend and colleague, Mrs. Sue Moore. With quiet strength, she stepped once again into what she loved most: teaching children to read, nurturing their spiritual growth, and making learning a joyful journey of discovery.

Lower School Academic Dean Julie Stender notes that Mrs. Selvig is a master teacher, especially passionate about phonics and literacy, but it’s her heart for discipleship that has made her impact immeasurable. Diane does not simply instruct; she shepherds. Her lessons are seasoned with wisdom, her interactions marked by grace, and her commitment to each child grounded in prayer.

As Hillcrest made its bold transition into classical Christian education, Diane’s experience and voice became a stabilizing force. She stood at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, helping shape a curriculum rooted in timeless truth. Her presence was instrumental in ensuring that Hillcrest’s discipleship program remained focused not just on academic rigor, but on nurturing virtue, character, and a deep love for Jesus in the youngest students.

As we celebrate Diane’s retirement, we don’t just mark the end of a career—we honor a life of faithfulness. Her story reminds us that the most important things taught in a classroom are often invisible: the seeds of truth planted in a young heart, the gentle encouragement during a moment of struggle, the quiet prayer whispered for a child who doesn’t even know they’re being prayed for.

Mrs. Selvig, thank you for living your calling so beautifully. Hillcrest—and the Kingdom of God—is richer because of you.