Our Saviors Lutheran Day School in Crookston

Welcome to Our Savior's Lutheran Day School, a cornerstone of faith-based education in the heart of Crookston, Minnesota. For families seeking an academic environment where Christian values and learning go hand-in-hand, our school offers a nurturing and supportive community. We believe in educating the whole child—mind, body, and spirit—within a caring, close-knit setting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what makes our school a special place for young learners to grow and thrive.

Our Foundation: A Mission Rooted in Faith

Our Savior's Lutheran Day School was established as a ministry of Our Savior's Lutheran Church. Our primary mission is to provide an excellent academic education integrated with the teachings of Jesus Christ. We strive to create a loving and respectful atmosphere where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their God-given potential.

We understand that choosing a school is a significant decision. Our approach is built on the understanding that children learn best when they feel safe, known, and spiritually grounded. Our small class sizes allow our dedicated teachers to give personalized attention to each student, fostering not only academic success but also strong character development.

A Closer Look at Our Academic Programs

We offer educational programs for young children, typically from pre-kindergarten through the elementary grades. Our curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Early Childhood Program (Pre-K): Our early childhood program focuses on school readiness through a balance of structured learning and play. In these formative years, we introduce children to foundational concepts in literacy and numeracy in a joyful, engaging way. More importantly, we help them develop essential social skills like sharing, cooperation, and empathy, all within a framework of Christian love and care.

Elementary Program (Grades K-6): Our elementary curriculum covers all core subjects, including:

• Language Arts: We use a phonics-based approach to build strong reading skills. Our students learn to love stories and develop their own abilities as writers.
• Mathematics: Our math program emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving to make concepts concrete and understandable.
• Science: Students explore the wonders of God's creation, developing curiosity and analytical thinking skills.
• Social Studies: Children learn about their community, their country, and the world, fostering a sense of global citizenship and understanding.

A key feature of our school is our library media center. We believe a love of reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give a child. Our library provides a quiet space for students to explore books and resources that support their classroom learning.

A Typical Day in Our School

A school day at Our Savior's Lutheran Day School is both structured and spirit-filled. While each day brings new discoveries, a typical schedule might look like this:

• Morning Welcome: The day often begins with a morning meeting or devotion, setting a positive and purposeful tone.
• Core Academic Blocks: The morning hours are typically dedicated to focused instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics.
• Lunch and Recess: Students enjoy a break for lunch and outdoor play, which is crucial for socialization and physical activity.
• Afternoon Studies: The afternoons are reserved for science, social studies, and specialty areas like art or music.
• Integrated Faith: Throughout the day, Christian principles are woven into lessons and interactions. Prayers before meals and Bible stories are a natural part of our routine.

With a school day lasting approximately 6.67 hours over a 169-day school year, we provide a consistent and comprehensive educational experience.

Our Campus and Community

Our school shares a campus with Our Savior's Lutheran Church, creating a strong sense of community and providing access to excellent facilities. Our environment is designed to be a "home away from home," where students feel a sense of belonging.

Family Involvement: We view parents as essential partners in their child's education. We maintain open communication through regular newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and casual conversations. Families are encouraged to participate in school events, volunteer opportunities, and celebrate milestones together. This partnership between home and school is vital to a child's success and happiness.

Life Beyond the Classroom: Education at Our Savior's Lutheran Day School extends beyond academics. Students participate in:

• Chapel Services: Regular gatherings for worship and song.
• Service Projects: Opportunities to give back to the local community, teaching the value of compassion and service.
• Special Events: Seasonal celebrations like Christmas programs and thanksgiving feasts that build cherished school traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What grades does Our Savior's Lutheran Day School offer?

Our Savior's Lutheran Day School typically offers programs ranging from Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) through the 6th grade. This allows us to provide a continuous, faith-based educational foundation during a child's most formative years.

Is your school accredited?

While specific accreditation details should be confirmed directly with the school administration, many Lutheran schools in Minnesota seek accreditation through recognized bodies like National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA) or state-level organizations. Accreditation ensures the school meets high standards of educational quality.

What are the tuition costs?

Tuition varies by grade level and program. We understand that investing in private education is a significant decision, and we strive to keep our costs accessible. Many Lutheran schools offer multi-child discounts and financial aid or tuition assistance programs. We encourage you to contact the school office at (218) 281-5191 for the most current and detailed tuition information.

Do you offer before and after-school care?

Many schools of our size offer extended care programs to support working families. This is a crucial service that provides a safe and supervised environment for children outside of regular school hours. Please inquire directly with the school to confirm the availability and hours of before and after-school care.

What is the student-to-teacher ratio?

A key advantage of a school like ours is our small class sizes. While the exact ratio can vary, our focus on personalized attention ensures that classes are small enough for teachers to know and nurture each student individually. This low student-to-teacher ratio is a cornerstone of our educational approach.

Are your teachers certified?

Yes, our faculty consists of dedicated and qualified professionals. Our lead teachers are typically state-certified and many have additional certifications specific to Lutheran education. They are not only experts in their fields but are also committed to modeling Christian values in the classroom.

Do students need to be Lutheran to attend?

No, students do not need to be Lutheran to attend. Our Savior's Lutheran Day School welcomes families from all faith backgrounds who are supportive of our Christian mission and values. We respect the beliefs of all families while providing an education grounded in the Lutheran tradition.

How does the school handle safety and security?

The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority. Our school implements comprehensive safety protocols, which typically include controlled access to the building, emergency response plans, and staff training. We maintain a safe and secure environment where children can learn and grow without worry.

What extracurricular activities are available?

While offerings may vary from year to year based on student interest, we often provide opportunities beyond the core curriculum. These can include things like choir, art clubs, or seasonal sports. We focus on providing a well-rounded experience that nurtures diverse talents and interests.

How can I schedule a tour of the school?

We strongly encourage families to schedule a tour to experience our community firsthand. The best way to arrange a visit is to call the school office directly at (218) 281-5191. We would be delighted to show you around, answer your questions, and let you feel the warmth of our school.

The Admissions Process: How to Join Our Family

We strive to make our admissions process straightforward and welcoming. If you believe our school could be the right fit for your family, here are the typical steps:

1. Reach Out: The first step is to contact us! Call our office at (218) 281-5191 to ask questions and schedule a personal tour. Seeing our school in action is the best way to feel our community spirit.
2. Submit an Application: After your tour, if you decide to apply, we will provide you with an application form to complete.
3. Conversation: We like to meet with prospective families to discuss your child's needs and ensure our philosophy aligns with your expectations.
4. Enrollment: Once accepted, you will complete the enrollment paperwork and provide necessary documents, such as a birth certificate and health records.

We welcome inquiries from all families who support our Christ-centered mission.

Conclusion: Building a Strong Foundation for the Future

Choosing Our Savior's Lutheran Day School means choosing an education that values character as much as academics. It means your child will be known by name, nurtured in faith, and challenged to excel. We are more than just a school; we are a family dedicated to helping children build a strong foundation for a fulfilling life. If you are looking for a caring, Christian educational environment in the Crookston area, we invite you to discover the difference at Our Savior's Lutheran Day School.