Bethesda Lutheran School and Early Learning Center is a Christian school serving children ages 3-Grade 4. Its mission statement is "Partnering with families to share the love of Jesus and provide an excellent Christ-centered education." National Lutheran Schools Accreditation Board and the State of South Dakota accredit it. The South Dakota Department of Social Services licenses Bethesda's Child Care.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-4
- Enrollment: 26 students
- Yearly Tuition: $3,100
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 10 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Bethesda Lutheran School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in South Dakota for:
Category
Attribute
Affordability
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-4
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia
Year Founded
1980
Summer School Offered
Yes
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
26 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
11%
State avg.: 22%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
3 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition is Kindergarten – Grade 4 - Registration fee $125
Member Tuition: $155/month
Non-member Tuition: $310/month
Preschool tuition Registration fee $225
and $200 a month
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 81%
School Notes
- School Motto: Healing Waters... Reflecting The Son!
- Preschool for children ages 3-5 is available from 8:00 - 12:00. Accredited by National Lutheran Schools Accreditation Board.
- School-year Child Care services are available from 7:15 A.M. to 8:00 A.M. and again from noon to 5:30 P.M. for $4.00 per hour.
- Weekly & monthly rates are available. Child Care is also available every Friday from 7:15 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.
- Child Care and Enrichment services are available during the summer.
- The South Dakota Department of Social Services licenses Child Care.
- Charges are incurred for the entire hour regardless of how much of the hour the child is in attendance. If a child is picked up after 5:30 p.m., a fee of $5 per every 15 minutes late will be charged at pick-up time.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Bethesda Lutheran School cost?
Bethesda Lutheran School's tuition is approximately $3,100 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Bethesda Lutheran School?
The acceptance rate of Bethesda Lutheran School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 79%.
When is the application deadline for Bethesda Lutheran School?
The application deadline for Bethesda Lutheran School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
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