Choosing a school home for your family is about far more than academics—it’s about values, relationships, and the formation of the whole child – your child. At St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Oconomowoc, we understand that families are entrusting us with one of God’s greatest gifts: their children. For families seeking a Christ-centered education, it’s important to know what truly defines a Christian school and how to discern whether it is the right fit for your family.
As you consider Christian education, here are four key areas every family should thoughtfully explore.
1. A Safe and Nurturing Learning Environment
Children learn best when they feel safe, known, and valued. A Christian school should provide more than physical safety—it should offer an environment rooted in respect, care, and grace. At St. Paul’s, students are encouraged to grow in confidence as they learn alongside peers and adults who model kindness, accountability, and compassion.
Our classrooms are places where students are supported academically, socially, and emotionally. Teachers and staff partner with families to ensure that every child is seen as an individual, created by God with unique gifts and abilities.
Further, our building is using industry-standard safety tools including keyless, remote locking exterior doors, 50 video cameras to see all areas of the building’s hallways and main gathering spaces, and the Raptor Visitor Management System, just to name a few components, that digitally verifies that the visitors and other non-staff persons are appropriately vetted to enter our school building. Safety is a priority for us.
2. High-Quality Academics Led by Dedicated Teachers
Strong academics matter. Families should look for a school that challenges students, fosters curiosity, and prepares them for future success. At St. Paul’s Lutheran School, high-quality instruction is delivered by caring, qualified teachers who are committed to excellence in education. 50% of our staff have earned their Master’s Degrees and all of our classroom teachers are LCMS-commissioned workers. We have teachers that have been serving anywhere from three years to 40 years in the teaching vocation.
Our educators do more than teach content—they guide students in critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance. Small class sizes allow teachers to know their students well, provide meaningful feedback, and tailor instruction to meet individual learning needs.
Additionally, St. Paul’s is blessed to offer academic support through intervention, recovery, and extension activities. We work closely with the Oconomowoc Area School District and parents to provide an inclusive-based education tailored to meet individual needs
3. Spiritual Formation and Character Development
Christian education is not an “add-on” to the school day—it is woven into every aspect of learning. At St. Paul’s, Christ is in All Things — He is the center of all we do. Students grow in their understanding of God’s Word through daily prayer, Bible instruction, chapel, and the integration of faith across all subject areas.
Just as importantly, students are guided in developing Christ-like character. They learn what it means to serve others, take responsibility, forgive, and live out their faith in everyday life. Our goal is not only academic growth, but hearts and minds shaped by the love and truth of Jesus Christ.
In addition to using the Bible and Luther’s Small Catechism, we use Friendzy as our Social-Emotional Learning program that aligns students in 4K-8th grade in a framework to teach skills that build character development, grow healthy relationships, manage stress, improve focus, and reduce disruptive behavior.
4. Alignment with Family Beliefs and Values
A strong partnership between home and school is essential. Families should feel confident that the school they choose supports and reinforces the values they teach at home. At St. Paul’s Lutheran School, our mission is clear: teaching the truth in Jesus Christ, growing as a family, and serving mind, body, and soul.
We believe in open communication, shared expectations, and walking alongside families in the joyful—and sometimes challenging—work of raising children in faith. When beliefs are aligned, students experience consistency, encouragement, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning and discipleship.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Family
Choosing a Christian school is a prayerful decision. We encourage families to visit, ask questions, and experience the community firsthand. At St. Paul’s Lutheran School, we strive to be a place where students are known, challenged, and loved—where Christ is in all things, and where children are prepared not only for the next grade, but for life.
If you are exploring Christian education in Oconomowoc, we would be honored to walk with your family as you discern the best school home for your child. Contact us today to schedule a tour.