Family FAQs

Find answers to your questions.

General Questions

What kind of school is Good Shepherd?

Everything we do at Good Shepherd centers on the message of what Jesus Christ has done for us.  

We are a member of a worldwide Christian denomination called the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (www.wels.net). WELS operates the fourth largest private school system in the country.

Do I have to be a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church to send my child to your school?

No, you do not need to be a member.  

However, your child will learn about what our church believes about the Bible.

You might find it beneficial to take our Bible Information Class to learn more about what we believe and the principles upon which our school is built. Going through this class does not obligate you to become a member.

How do Good Shepherd students perform on standardized tests?

The Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) tests, developed by the Northwest Evaluation Association, are given at Good Shepherd in grades 3-8. These tests measure achievement and progress in the areas of Math, Reading, Language, and Science. We track progress throughout the school year, so that each student is being monitored for growth.

Good Shepherd students regularly score far above grade-level average.

Can I visit my child's classroom?

Parents are encouraged to come and visit their child’s classroom. Simply reach out to your child's teacher to schedule a classroom visit.

Curriculum Questions

Is there a lot of homework?

Classwork is assigned every day. The amount will change day to day and vary by grade level.

A time-honored rule of thumb is the "Rule of 10." Students can expect 10 minutes of classwork for every grade level. For example, 1st grade = 10 minutes, 4th grade = 40 minutes, 7th grade = 70 minutes.

When the classwork isn't finished at school, it is expected to be completed at home. Some students rarely have homework, some students regularly have homework.

If a student is regularly spending more time than the "Rule of 10" suggests, the parents and teachers will partner together to make adjustments or accommodations to meet the student's needs.

Are computers used in the classroom?

Good Shepherd offers a 1:1 technology environment for grades 3-8. Chromebooks are used in grades 3-8 and other devices are incorporated into the instruction at the teacher's discretion in grades K-2.

In our world of ever-advancing technology, we try to balance students use of technology with traditional learning tools. The devices are specifically used as educational tools meant to enhance the learning experience, not replace the teacher and social environment.

Student Life Questions

Does Good Shepherd require school uniforms?

No, Good Shepherd does not require school uniforms, but does have a dress code policy in place as outlined in the School Handbook.

Does Good Shepherd have a hot lunch program?

Good Shepherd offers hot lunch daily. You can learn more about purchasing options for hot lunch in our school handbook.

Does Good Shepherd offer sports or extracurricular activities?

Good Shepherd offers a variety of sports and extracurriculars for kids in grades 3-8 to participate in. Students are also taught both life and sports skills as part of our regular curriculum.

Students currently have the opportunity to participate in: Cross Country, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Track, and Cheerleading.

In addition to sports, Good Shepherd offers fine arts opportunities, including band, choir, handchimes, and school musicals. A variety of other activities are offered as well, including forensics, Pioneers, and more.

Enrollment & Tuition Questions

Where can I apply?

Learn more about our application process.

How do I make tuition payments?

Families can choose between a full payment option, paid at the beginning of the school year, or through regular ACH payments withdrawn from your bank account. 

Online payments can be made through your Sycamore account.

Where can I find information about tuition, fees and financial assistance?

More information on our tuition rates and discounts is available on our Tuition & Fees page.

Tuition assistance is also available for eligible families through grants, scholarships, and the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program. Learn more about financial assistance at Good Shepherd.

Does Good Shepherd participate in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program?

Yes. Good Shepherd participates in the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program.

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply.

More Questions

Can I schedule a tour at Good Shepherd?

Yes! Click here to begin the Admissions process and learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran School.