By Brianna Dehn
On June 30, during daily chapel at the LCMS International Center in St. Louis, Dr. Eric Semler was installed as head of school for Concordia International School Shanghai (CISS). Semler has worked at CISS since 2009, serving in several different roles, including elementary school principal and assistant head of school of teaching and learning. He was called to serve in this new role during the 2024–2025 school year. CISS currently serves more than 1,150 students from over 30 different countries.
Semler was installed by the Rev. Kevin Robson, LCMS chief mission officer, who also preached and served as liturgist. “Today we install a man into a high office as head of our international school in Shanghai, a school that serves … students, their families [and] hundreds of faculty and staff,” said Robson. “Eric, this morning our prayers are with you, dear brother. Let [the students] know that they have been brought near by the blood of Jesus. Announce His peace, that they would, by His Spirit, join a multitude in … chorus of acclamation and praise that will continue into eternity.”
Since its founding in 1998, CISS has served students and their families by providing both an academically rigorous education and opportunities for faith formation. Areas of focus include academics, athletics, fine arts and applied learning programs. Plans are underway to build an indoor pool facility and a new performing arts center.
Semler noted the ever-present need at CISS for Lutheran teachers with a strong commitment to Lutheran identity. “We’re looking for teachers whose faith is … important to them,” said Semler. “I’ve been very impressed with Lutheran educators. … I think they are willing to go above and beyond. It’s not just a paycheck; it’s a calling. They want to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world, an ambassador and a witness.”
Semler began serving at Lutheran international schools in 1994, and has taught and held leadership positions in Hong Kong, Japan and Indonesia. In the U.S., Semler served at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and School in Collinsville, Ill., and Concordia Lutheran School in San Antonio.
Semler earned bachelor’s degrees in music and elementary education from Concordia University, Nebraska, Seward, Neb.; a master’s in educational administration from Concordia University Chicago, River Forest, Ill.; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Fla. He and his wife, Karin, have two children, Gavin and Elena, who are both in college.
Semler is both honored and excited to lead CISS and help continue its mission. “The visionaries who started this school wanted the Gospel to be shared,” he said. “They wanted people to know Jesus.”
Brianna Dehn is a freelance writer in St. Louis.
Posted Aug. 20, 2025
