Mr. Philip Wilke was recognized as a Distinguished Lutheran Secondary Educator by The Lutheran Education Association for their 2026 awards.
This award is associated with the Secondary Educators Network (SECnet) for teachers in grades 9th-12th with four or more years of experience. The qualifications are listed below as nominees must:
- demonstrate a strong commitment to serving Jesus.
- are active in the local community as well as the Lutheran community.
- are committed to excellence and to meeting the social, emotional, spiritual, and cognitive needs of students.
- are equipped and willing to profess and teach the Christian faith from a Lutheran perspective.
- demonstrate effective professional skills and relational skills.
- are a member of one or more professional associations.
- teach grades 9th-12th
Phill Wilke teaches Theology focusing on Apologetics and Ethics with additional instruction in World Religions and Logic at Concordia Lutheran High School, Tomball, Tex. He is also the Head Strength Coach and Assistant Athletic Director. Called to Concordia 28 years ago, Phill previously spent 8 years at Lutheran South High School in Houston. Wilke earned a B.A. in secondary education with a math minor from Concordia University Wisconsin. He also has a M.A. in Fitness and Human Performance from the University of Houston—Clear Lake.
“My greatest joy in working with students is seeing them begin to understand what God is doing in their lives and to recognize His faithfulness and presence even in the midst of their questions and struggles. It is a blessing to walk alongside them as they grow in faith, “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). I am deeply grateful for the relationships that develop over time—relationships rooted in trust—where students feel comfortable coming to me with questions they might not ask anyone else. Being invited into those moments of honesty and searching is both humbling and a reminder of the sacred responsibility and joy of this calling” Wilke states.
The administration representing Concordia Lutheran High School depicted Mr. Phill Wilke as someone who always "demonstrates a sincere concern for the well-being of all students. He models compassion, faith, and respect, serving as a positive role model and mentor. His influence extends beyond daily lessons, helping students grow in character, faith, and confidence. He exemplifies absolutely everything a Lutheran school educator should as he carries out the ministry of our Lord.”
Wilke's personal mission statement is “to help high school students know who Christ is and to live lives that reflect faith in Him. I strive to be a light in their lives, seeking each day to show them Christ through my words, actions, and relationships, just as Jesus calls us to do: “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14–16). By living as an example of Christian faith, integrity, and service, I desire that students would see not me, but Christ at work through me, following the encouragement of the apostle Paul, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).”
Congratulations to Mr. Wilke, we are very proud of you!