Bethesda Lutheran School

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

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
Bethesda Lutheran School Student 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).

School Reviews

Endorse Bethesda Lutheran School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:

  • Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
  • Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
  • Academic or athletic awards
Endorse this school:

Recent Articles

The End of Teacher Tenure As We Know It?
The End of Teacher Tenure As We Know It?
Teacher tenure in our public schools is under attack. Will tenure as we know it survive? Some thoughts here.
Schools for Gifted Children
Schools for Gifted Children
Teaching gifted children requires deft handling. These children need intellectual and sensory stimulation. But they also need guidance and careful nurturing so that they grow up handling their special gifts and themselves appropriately.
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed Educators
Navigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.

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

Request Information

Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in South Dakota is $6,497 for elementary schools and $7,804 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in South Dakota is 79% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

Quick Links