On September 5, our 2026 Retreat brought together nearly all of our students—and, for the first time, several host families—for a full day of learning, reflection, worship, and celebration. It was a rare moment when our entire community gathered under one roof, and it felt like a milestone in our journey together.

Introduction

We began the retreat with a “Speed Friending” icebreaker to help students learn each other’s names and build new connections.

I then introduced the House Framework we use at Premier Education Partners. Our long‑term goal is to help students succeed not only in high school, but also in college and career. To do this, we encourage our community to do hard things with love—in academics, extracurricular activities, community service, and outdoor adventures. But the entire “house” rests on one solid foundation: the homestay life each student experiences daily.

I also introduced the major programs planned for this year, including ongoing community service opportunities and seasonal events, and encouraged students to participate fully.

The Best Learning Comes From Each Other

This year, we intentionally stepped back and allowed the students to speak—and they responded with honesty, vulnerability, and surprising maturity.

Michael (Junior at Westwood), Alice (Junior at Savio), and Chloe (Junior at Hill Country Christian School) shared openly about their struggles and victories over the past two years, offering practical advice to their peers.

Then four college students—John and Jason (both in graduate programs), and Max and Phyllis (new college freshmen)—reflected on their high school experiences, their challenges, and what they wish they had known earlier. Their stories helped our students see high school not only as a present challenge but also as preparation for college and life beyond.

An Immigrant’s Story and the Meaning of Life

At 4 p.m., we welcomed my friend Linda Lewis, who graciously hosted our retreat in her beautiful home. She shared her powerful life story—from growing up in El Salvador, surviving civil war, immigrating to the United States, succeeding in business, and eventually responding to God’s call to serve communities like ours.

She then led a worship workout, guiding students in dance and movement. The girls jumped in enthusiastically; the boys looked awkward at first, joking around—but eventually most joined in, and the room filled with joy.

I danced with them too—also awkwardly. As I watched our students, the phrase “young and awkward” came to mind. Yes, this is the generation we are working with. Many have just arrived from China or Taiwan, living in Austin without their parents. They are talented but make mistakes often. They love their screens and don’t socialize naturally. Our job is to help them grow—from young to mature, and from awkward to confident.

A Night of Celebration

At 5 p.m., we gathered for a Chinese dinner. The room buzzed with conversation, laughter, and the joy of simply being together.

After dinner, our student worship team—Alice, Chloe, Michael, Tian Ge, and Maria—led us in worship. They did a beautiful job guiding the whole group to focus on God.

At 7 p.m., we began the pool party. Students swam, played basketball, laughed, and took group photos. It was a beautiful sight—young people connecting, relaxing, and simply being kids. My friend’s son Sean, a recent college graduate, served mocktails throughout the evening, adding to the fun and celebration.

Get Back to Basics

After worship, I shared my expectations for the new school year. They were simple and foundational.

A Word to Students

Basic Disciplines

• Good sleep
• Good diet
• Enough movement
• Manage screen time
• Clean up after yourself

These five disciplines form the foundation of a healthy life.

Basic MannersFive simple phrases we want every student and host family to practice:

• How can I help you?
• I’m proud of you.
• I love you.
• Thank you / I’m sorry.
• Please.

These small phrases carry big weight. They shape respect, gratitude, humility, and connection—qualities essential for life together.

Basic Rules of Life

• “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” — Benjamin Franklin
• “You are free to choose, but you are not free from the consequences of your choices.” — Zig Ziglar
• “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

I reminded the students:We want you to succeed. Your parents want you to succeed. But 80% of your success depends on your effort. Only 20% comes from external support—your teachers, host families, and parents.

A Word to Host Families

I then turned to our host families and shared reflections from my 12 years as a host dad.

First, remember the mission: Our mission is heart transformation, not behavior modification. We are not trying to produce perfectly behaved kids with hardened hearts. We are here for the good news of Jesus Christ, and we pray for their hearts to be softened toward Him.

**Second, remember our role:**We are not police officers. We are witnesses—light, salt, and good soil. Our job is to create an environment where the seeds God plants can grow.

**Third, remember our strategy:**Love.There is no other way.

My friend Ricky Moser then shared his testimony of hosting students for many years and building relationships that lasted long after graduation. His story moved many of us.

This year, we organized our expectations for students in homestay families into a formal document. This document will be shared with all host families, students, and parents. Once we reach a shared understanding, we will begin implementing it step by step.

I have emphasized repeatedly that our goal is not perfection, but the development of self‑management skills in our students. What we look for is progress, not flawlessness. Our role is that of a coach, not a caretaker—we accompany, guide, and encourage, but ultimately we want students to learn to take responsibility for their own lives.

A Verse That Anchors My Calling

I closed with the verse I’ve been memorizing and meditating on:

1 Corinthians 9:19*“I am a free man with no master, but I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ.”*

After 12 years of hosting, it is easy to slip into routine or lose heart. But this verse reminds me why God called me into this work. Over 20 years as a Christian, God has freed me from many sins—greed, lust, and others. I am no longer a slave to those things. But I have become more and more a slave to Christ.

To bring many to Christ, I want to serve my students, host families, and parents with humility—like a servant. Whether I’m driving students to school, picking them up from the airport, or simply listening to them, I want to remember the calling God gave me.

Working With This Young Generation

Reflecting on the retreat, I am more convinced than ever that this young generation needs connection. They need love. They need a circle of caring adults—not perfect people, but faithful ones—walking with them, encouraging them, and doing life with them.

We are building a safe community around them so they can grow.

And we will continue this work as long as God continues to bless us with these children.