Business Details
31 Years
experience
Christ-Centered Education in Watertown, SD
Great Plains Lutheran High School has been dedicated to providing Christ-centered education for 30 years. Our mission focuses on nurturing students as lifelong disciples of Christ through academic excellence and a supportive community environment. With 140 students and a student-teacher ratio of 11:1, we offer personalized attention and a curriculum designed to prepare graduates for college, technical schools, or the workforce. Our faculty includes 40% instructors with advanced degrees, and 94% of graduates pursue postsecondary education. We maintain one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation through generous community support and endowment programs. Our campus fosters a family-like atmosphere where teachers and students demonstrate mutual respect and care.The school's 24-acre location in Watertown, South Dakota provides modern facilities including 1:1 chromebook access and an average class size of 15 students. We serve an international student population of 4% and maintain a 97% participation rate in co-curricular activities. Our 5-year average ACT score of 24 reflects academic rigor, while our dormitory program supports students from diverse geographic backgrounds. Through donor programs and annual support initiatives, we continue expanding our capacity to impact young lives through faith-based education.
Services
Academic Programs
College Preparation
Co-Curricular Activities
International Student Support
Donor Programs
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of experience in Christ-centered education
- Our 11:1 student-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention
- 94% college enrollment rate among graduating seniors
- Maintain lowest tuition rates through community support
- Safe, family-like environment with mutual respect culture
What people say
Lifelong discipleship
Supportive teachers
Affordable tuition
Strong academics
Spiritual growth
Services
Academic Programs
Our academic programs combine college preparatory coursework with Christian values. Students receive personalized instruction in classes averaging 15 students, with 40% of faculty holding advanced degrees. The curriculum prepares graduates for success in higher education, technical training, or immediate workforce entry.
Co-Curricular Activities
We offer comprehensive co-curricular opportunities with 97% student participation. Programs include athletics, fine arts, and academic competitions. These activities develop leadership skills while maintaining our commitment to Christian character development in a supportive community environment.
International Student Support
Our international student program serves 4% of the student body with specialized support services. The dormitory program accommodates students from diverse geographic backgrounds while maintaining our Christ-centered educational philosophy and family-like campus culture.
Donor Programs
We provide multiple donor program options including endowments, scholarship funds, and capital projects. These programs help maintain affordable tuition rates while supporting facility improvements and financial assistance for students with demonstrated need.
Community Partnerships
Our community partnership programs connect students with local businesses and organizations for service learning opportunities. These partnerships reinforce our mission of developing students' Christian character through practical application of faith-based values in real-world settings.
People
David Maertz
President
Rev. David Maertz leads Great Plains Lutheran High School with 30 years of educational experience. He oversees academic programs, spiritual development, and community outreach initiatives. His leadership maintains the school's mission of nurturing lifelong Christian disciples.
Questions
What makes your school unique?
Our Christ-centered education combines academic excellence with spiritual development in a supportive community environment.
How do you support student success?
We provide personalized attention through 11:1 student-teacher ratios and 97% co-curricular participation.
What financial assistance options exist?
Student Assistance Fund provides tuition reductions for families with financial need through donor support.
Are international students accepted?
Yes, 4% of our student population comes from international backgrounds with specialized support services.
How do donations impact the school?
Donations maintain low tuition rates, support facility improvements, and fund scholarship programs for students.
What college preparation programs exist?
Our college preparatory curriculum achieves 94% postsecondary enrollment with average ACT scores above national averages.