First Lutheran School, established in 1957, is owned and operated by First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Torrance.
First Lutheran is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and provides instruction in all subjects required by the State of California.
In addition, First Lutheran's daily curriculum includes enrichment courses in vocal music, religion and computer technology.
The First Lutheran teaching philosophy includes critical thinking, cooperative learning skills, and a phonetics approach to teaching beginning readers.
Our goals are to provide a caring environment to our school and the community, to prepare students intellectually with a strong academic program, and to nurture children and families in the Christian faith.
First Lutheran offers a first-rate Christian education where Christ is taught in the classroom and where the Christian principles of love and forgiveness are taught and practiced in every arena of school life.
A high level of parent involvement is found at every grade level throughout the school. First Lutheran School, rooted in Christian faith and the assurance of God's grace, provides our diverse community of children a quality education, preparing them to participate in the world through lives of service and leadership.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: Kindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 493 students
- Yearly Tuition: $7,800
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Average class size: 18 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
First Lutheran School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Student Body
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Kindergarten-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1957
Summer School Offered
Yes
Summer Program Details
Student Body
Total Students
493 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
80%
State avg.: 51%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
21 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
23:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
18 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
no uniforms
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition varies somewhat by grade, with a discount for church members.
Acceptance Rate
90%
National avg.: 81%
Admissions Director
Margarita Robertson
Application URL
Sports
Total Sports Offered
3 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
After-school Spanish language class, Church youth groups, LEAD student council
Arts and Music Programs:
Church youth choir, First Kids after-school arts program
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Interscholastic Sports
After-school Spanish language class, Church youth groups, LEAD student council
Arts and Music Programs:
Church youth choir, First Kids after-school arts program
Recreational Athletic Programs:
Interscholastic Sports
School Notes
- First Lutheran School, established in 1957, is owned and operated by First Evangelical Lutheran Church of Torrance.
- First Lutheran is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and provides instruction in all subjects required by the State of California.
- First Lutheran's daily curriculum includes enrichment courses in vocal music, religion and computer technology.
- The First Lutheran teaching philosophy includes critical thinking, cooperative learning skills, and the Open Court approach to reading.
- Our goals are to provide a caring environment to our school and the community, to prepare students intellectually with a strong academic program, and to nurture children and families in the Christian faith.
- First Lutheran offers a first-rate Christian education where Christ is taught in the classroom and where the Christian principles of love and forgiveness are taught and practiced in every arena of school life.
- A high level of parent involvement is found at every grade level throughout the school.
- First Lutheran School, rooted in Christian faith and the assurance of God's grace, provides our diverse community of children a quality education, preparing them to participate in the world through lives of service and leadership.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does First Lutheran School cost?
First Lutheran School's tuition is approximately $7,800 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of First Lutheran School?
The acceptance rate of First Lutheran School is 90%, which is higher than the national average of 80%.
Does First Lutheran School offer a summer program?
Yes, First Lutheran School offers a summer program. Visit their summer school page for more information.
What sports does First Lutheran School offer?
First Lutheran School offers 3 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Soccer and Volleyball.
What is First Lutheran School's ranking?
First Lutheran School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Largest student body.
When is the application deadline for First Lutheran School?
The application deadline for First Lutheran School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is First Lutheran School located?
First Lutheran School is located in the Madrona neighborhood of Torrance, CA. There are 2 other private schools located in Madrona.
School Reviews
5 12/1/2021
This school was great. I had this school from 1st-3rd and I'm in 7th grade now. I've had a lot of great memories here and I miss the bible songs they were so catchy.
Endorse First 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
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