Through his work, Dr. Galster is preparing the next generation of educators to teach with focus, grace, and purpose.
Dr. Don Galster has dedicated over 30 years to education, working in diverse settings across multiple states. His journey has taken him from public school classrooms to administrative leadership, and now, to a meaningful role at Cross Trainers Academy, a Christian school serving students in Milwaukee and a part of the Milwaukee Rescue Mission. As an adjunct professor at Concordia University, Dr. Galster brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to future educators and aspiring school leaders. His work is deeply shaped by his faith, his belief in the transformative power of education, and his commitment to serving where he is most needed.
Bringing Experience into the Classroom
Dr. Galster teaches ED 1103 – Human Relations for the Educator/Teacher and EDG 6100 – Leadership in Administration and Cultures of Change at Concordia. He particularly enjoys working with non-traditional students in his undergraduate course, many of whom are already employed as teaching assistants.
“I did not have this course in my own teacher preparation program, and I had no knowledge of how to communicate with key parties, including students, colleagues, administrators, and parents. ED 1103 provides this valuable learning, essential to the success of new teachers,” he explains. “It’s also rewarding to help TAs, who already understand the classroom setting, take the final steps toward earning their teaching degree.”
His graduate-level course allows him to mentor aspiring school administrators, many of whom already have experience in education. “I enjoyed being able to share my practical knowledge with these professionals,” he says. “And I even learned a few things about organizational leadership from students coming from healthcare backgrounds!”
From Business to Education: A Calling to Teach and Lead
Dr. Galster initially studied economics and business administration but soon realized his true calling was education. He pursued a master’s degree in curriculum development with secondary education certification and began his career as a high school social studies teacher on the west side of Chicago.
“It was valuable experience, but a rough area. After a few years, I moved to the suburbs and later to Florida, where I enjoyed the beach life,” he recalls. “There, I was encouraged to explore school administration, and after starting a family, the idea of making a greater impact—and earning a better salary—became appealing.”
What initially felt like a reluctant move away from coaching basketball soon became his passion. “I realized it was the leadership aspect that motivated me—the ability to create and facilitate improvement and change in an entire school rather than just in my own classroom. I became a leadership-theory junkie, and that’s been my path ever since.”
After earning a specialist’s degree in school administration, principal certification, and eventually a PhD and superintendent’s license, Dr. Galster served in various educational leadership roles before moving back to the Midwest.
Finding Purpose at Cross Trainers Academy
Nine years ago, Dr. Galster experienced a deepening of his faith and a shift in his career path. “Through God’s guidance, I moved from 25 years in public education to Christian education. I transitioned from the highest-performing schools in Wisconsin to some of the lowest. I prayed for God to lead me where I was needed, and He led me to Cross Trainers Academy.”
The transition was humbling. “I had to admit that all of those suburban districts I worked in would have done just fine with or without me. But going somewhere where people feel achieving success is almost impossible—that’s where I am meant to be. I am exhausted by the challenges, but I am more motivated by challenge than anything else.”
Dr. Galster sees the impact of his work daily. “Many of our students come from trauma-filled backgrounds. Some don’t have any role models at home, and many parents are incarcerated. Schools become social workers, teachers, and providers of basic needs. If there’s still time and space, there can even be schooling.”
But the rewards are immeasurable. “The most meaningful moments are watching seniors graduate because I know how hard their journey has been. I love when they finally ‘get’ why I have high expectations. And when students come to faith in Jesus Christ, the change is something only God can bring about.”
The Realities and Rewards of Urban Education
Dr. Galster is a strong advocate for educators considering careers in urban education. “It is the best place to learn. Educators who gain strong experience in an urban setting can succeed anywhere. The same cannot be said for those who start in suburban schools.”
But he is also honest about the challenges. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint. It’s not for everyone, and many walk away. But there is nothing more genuine than helping a child in an urban setting succeed when so many obstacles exist in their path. In an urban school, when a child succeeds, you know you played a part.”
Faith in Action: A Christ-Centered Approach to Leadership
Dr. Galster’s faith is central to his work as both an educator and administrator. “Before my faith journey became real, I existed as two separate people—a neutral professional at work and a Christian believer outside of work. It dawned on me that if I could apply the strength and wisdom of my Christian faith to being a school leader, the result would be powerful. That’s when I left public education for private Christian education. My work is now a ministry, not just a job.”
This perspective has reshaped his leadership style. “As a Christian leader, I still maintain high standards, but I lead with more gentleness, grace, and forgiveness. Helping struggling students succeed through love does not mean we are weak—it means we are strong, resilient, and determined.”
A Lasting Impact on Education
Dr. Galster’s work at Concordia is an extension of his ministry. “Every time I am asked to teach a course at Concordia, I am thrilled. Seeing students improve based on my feedback, hearing how they’ve landed new jobs, and receiving their thank-you notes at the end of a term—it all reinforces why I do this.”
Through his leadership at Cross Trainers Academy and his teaching at Concordia, Dr. Galster continues to shape the next generation of educators and administrators, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and faith to transform lives.
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. Our Education programs focus on optimizing your abilities to serve students, schools, and the community through education. We develop well-rounded educational professionals that can teach and lead in rural and urban communities. With a Christian-centered focus, relevant curriculum, and engaging faculty you can play a meaningful role in the world of education.
Dr. Adam Paape is assistant dean of the School of Education at Concordia University Wisconsin.