John Kolander

Dr. John Kolander is an off-campus instructor in the Master of Science in Education program at Martin Luther College (MLC), part of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). With over 30 years of experience in Lutheran education, he has served as a principal, teacher, academic dean, and provost across various institutions, including Wisconsin Lutheran College and Fox Valley Lutheran High School. He holds a PhD in Educational Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction from UW-Oshkosh. His work focuses on strengthening Lutheran schools globally, particularly through his involvement with the Hoenecke Vulnerable Children’s Foundation, which supports schools in Zambia.

Education Background:

• Bachelor’s Degree: DMLC (1981)
• MA in Curriculum & Instruction: University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
• PhD in Educational Administration: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Research Interests: Dr. Kolander emphasizes school improvement, leadership development, and equitable education access for vulnerable populations. His international work with schools in Zambia highlights his commitment to global Lutheran education. He advocates for Christ-centered curricula and sustainable educational systems.

Professional Roles: He has held leadership roles such as principal (Samuel-Marshall MN and Immanuel-Waupaca WI), assistant principal (Fox Valley LHS), academic dean (Wisconsin Lutheran College, 5 years), and provost (2 years). His current role at MLC supports educators through graduate programs.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the Hoenecke Foundation to manage schools in Lusaka, Zambia, serving vulnerable children. Family involvement in education spans generations, with his wife and children pursuing roles in Lutheran schools and seminaries.