The purpose of Pacific Lutheran Jr./ Sr. High School is provide a Christ-centered high quality education to students in grades six through twelve.
Due to the school's small class sizes (generally 15-18 students per class) Pacific Lutheran is able to form strong bonds between students and teachers in a supportive learning environment that allows them to maximize their God-given potential. Pacific Lutheran boasts the most affordable junior-senior high school price point of any school in the greater Los Angeles area and offers an impressive array of co-curricular options including sports, clubs, student council and class field trips.
Quick Stats (2024-25)
- Top Ranked CA School
- Grades: 6-12
- Enrollment: 118 students
- Yearly Tuition: $7,500
- Acceptance rate: 75%
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 6-12
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia / Language-based or Mild Learning Differences
Year Founded
1998
Student Body
Total Students
118 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
69%
State avg.: 50%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
15 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
8:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
70%
Average Class Size
15 students
Number of AP Courses
7 courses
List of Courses Offered
Advanced Courses
AP Calculus, AP English Literature, AP Psychology, AP Statistics, AP U.S. History, AP World History
Average SAT score
1100
(Out of 1600)
Classroom Dress Code
Formal
Collared shirt and dockers for boys
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Junior High $5750
Senior High $7,500
International Student rate - $16,000
Annual Enrollment Fee - $500Sports and books are free
% on Financial Aid
10%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$1,000
Acceptance Rate
75%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Lucas Fitzgerald
Sports
Total Sports Offered
5 sports
Sports
Extracurriculars
Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
10 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
3-D Printing Club, Boys Bible Study, Craft Club, Health Club, Robotics, Student Government, video Game Club, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Musical Theater, Performing Arts Praise Band
3-D Printing Club, Boys Bible Study, Craft Club, Health Club, Robotics, Student Government, video Game Club, Yearbook
Arts and Music Programs:
Musical Theater, Performing Arts Praise Band
School Notes
- Chapter I: Student/Community Profile and Supporting DataCommunity Profile -
- Pacific Lutheran is an approximately 100 student 6th-12th grade school located in Gardena, California in an urban setting. Gardena is located in the South Bay (southwestern) region of Los Angeles County, California, United States. The population was 58,829 at the 2010 census, up from 57,746 at the 2000 census. The racial makeup of Gardena was 24.6% White, 9.3% Non-Hispanic White, 24.4% African American, 0.6%Native American, 26.2% Asian, 0.7% Pacific Islander, 18.9% from other races, and 4.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race was 37%. During 20092013, Gardena had a median household income of $48,251 with 15.5% of the population living below the federal poverty line.
- Student Profile/DataStudent Denominational Demographics - Students attend Pacific Lutheran from a wide array of Christian backgrounds including Lutheran, Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal, Presbyterian and non-denominational. Several students who do not profess Christian beliefs also attend the school, thus making it a true "missional" school. Non-Christian students are admitted on a case by case basis as long as they are not antagonistic to the school`s Christian mission and are willing to participate in the theological dimensions of the school (i.e. Theology class, chapel, Christian code of conduct).
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School cost?
Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School's tuition is approximately $7,500 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School?
The acceptance rate of Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School is 75%, which is lower than the national average of 84%. Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in California with low acceptance rates.
What sports does Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School offer?
Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer and Volleyball.
What is Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School's ranking?
Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in California for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School?
The application deadline for Pacific Lutheran Junior / Senior High School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
5 6/7/2024
The best school i could have put my daughter in. It's a more intimate learning environment so my child isn't left behind. Staff is amazing! Warming atmosphere. I don't have to worry about her safety when she's is at school. Look forward to my child growing here
5 5/31/2024
Pacific Lutheran Is a great school!My child loves it here, and she will be coming back next year.I would very much recommend this school; they truly are a faith-based school that is Christ centered. The staff are all very kind, and it is a very safe learning environment with small class sizes.The school happens to be one of the more affordable options for a private Christian education. They always keep the parents in the loop about the things involving the school and the students. Excellent communication!Pacific Lutheran uses Gradelink, which is an excellence platform for parents too, I just open the app and see the calendar, schedule, grades, assignments, transcript, alerts, attendance, and discipline all just one click away.
5 6/2/2023
I am very thankful, content, and in so much joy to have my daughter attend this school and follow in the beliefs of Christ. Not only does she come home very happy, but she comes home from being educated thoroughly on all necessary subjects, including Christian beliefs. She`s taught to be a good, willing, and considerate person. I recommend this school to those who want to follow these steps. This school gives me faith in the good.
5 6/2/2023
Pacific Lutheran Jr/Sr High School has proven to be the best school for my grandson. The curriculum is challenging, the teachers are vested in the student's growth and development and the school overall is committed to the whole child all in a Christ-centered environment. The only thing I would like to see more of is the variety of electives offered.
5 5/5/2023
This school is a great school to have your kid with a great principal and teachers. Always very helpful.
5 5/5/2023
My daughter is just finishing her first year here and will be going here til she graduates from high school. Great school and faculty. Especially love that this is a Christ-centered education.
5 5/5/2023
One of the best spiritual and educational investments you will ever make for your child. A God-centered education, staff that truly love what they do and sincerely care about our kids, great teacher-to-student ratio, safe, and diverse.
5 12/30/2022
We love Pac Lu. The staff is amazing and cares for the students. They don't just care but they are willing to help parents ensure each student has what they need to succeed. Classes are rigorous and college preparatory. Our son said his college classes are easier than they were at Pac Lu.
5 6/3/2022
Pacific Lutheran school is a quality education where any student can thrive. My son entered as a 6th grader in 2021 and has grown tremendously in academics, responsibility, and faith. The school has caring, dedicated, Christ-centered teachers who are able to give individualized care to their students. This school community is a very close-knit group and has every opportunity to be well informed of their student's progress and challenges. Thank you PacLu for being such a wonderful blessing to our family.
5 6/3/2022
This school is great! What a treasure to have a fantastic principal, teachers, and staff that shines Jesus Christ. Both my girls have attended PACLU and I highly recommend it.
5 6/2/2022
My student has been at Pacific Lutheran for the last four years and has been a blessing to my child. The teachers show a genuine interest in the student's academic success as well as their spiritual growth. All of the staff have proven to be very knowledgeable, kind, and compassionate in providing a positive academic experience for the students.
5 5/31/2022
Pacific Lutheran High School is a great school! My child attended this school as a freshman and is about is graduate as a senior. This school has been nothing but a blessing to my family. Not only do they have stellar academic offerings, amazing teachers, and staff, but this school truly cares about its students. They have been there for me and my child countless times. I don't know any school where the principal gives out his personal telephone number and truly means it when he says to call anytime. Pacific Lutheran is more than a school, it is a family. If you are looking for a great private school for your child, PacLu is an amazing place and you will not be disappointed.
5 5/20/2022
As a mother, this is an excellent school for students to cooperate more with God and build a better relationship with God, and the teachers always help their students when they need any help. I`m thrilled and very calm about keeping my daughter in this school.
5 5/19/2022
This is a great school! My son has been going there since the 6th grade and we are very happy with the quality of education he has received over the past two years. I highly recommend this school.
5 6/21/2021
I am a single mother who is raising a son, and Paclu helps fill the gap. They keep me informed regularly about his lessons, homework and grades. Everybody has noticed an improvement in my son's behaviors. They have a Christ centered orientation and I am glad my son is more engaged in the religion. I can now confirm that I did the right choice. Sean is becoming a confident young man who does his homework independently.
5 5/17/2021
This year has been something different for schooling. Paclu has done an amazing job to educate my daughter and keep her engaged! She has done really well this year. I honestly praise GOD for Paclu, the staff is truly a blessing. Their ability and willingness to pivot for the wellness of their families and students was a great sight to see & experience. The focus on GOD is always a plus!!
5 12/18/2020
Pacific Lutheran Jr./Sr. High School has a God-centered education. Not only do they focus on academics, but I love that they always bring God into every subject just as it should be. During this "pandemic" the teachers are working overtime to make sure these kids have a proper education as well as give them rich truths from God's word to encourage their souls. There are several opportunities each week when students are encouraged to join in remote social platforms such as chapel, career talks, STEM clubs, etc.. which help to give them a sense of community. They are encouraged to think outside the box to find new ways to meet their social & emotional needs with new virtual clubs. This school is wonderful and although everyone has room to grow they give many opportunities for parents to give thoughts, opinions and suggestions with surveys and monthly parent meetings because every student, parent and staff matters. This I appreciate so much.
5 9/3/2020
Both of our daughters attended high school at PacLu. They had previously attended public school. They had an amazing experience! The teachers are credentialed, smart and caring. The campus and learning atmosphere is top notch and creates a safe learning environment. The teachers adapt to the learning style of the individual. Both of our kids are excelling academically in college and we are delighted we decided to send our girls to PacLu! We are thankful that PacLu invests in the lives of their students and provides an optimum learning experience.
5 8/21/2019
Good Christian school and nice teachers. Have much good education system and program. There is a very good relationship between teachers and students.
5 8/10/2019
PacLu is a great school. Not only did I notice that my son is finally being challenged educationally but is also growing spiritually. The principal and teachers really make efforts to be available and attentive to the children's needs and safety. I really appreciate the Christ-centered atmosphere and look forward to seeing what's in store for this Fall.
5 5/8/2019
Pac Lu, in short, is a pretty good school. The principal, Mr. Fitz, is a very caring and compassionate person. I had the pleasure of spending time with five of their teachers and a couple of the parents on their annual camping trip and it was a delight.
5 3/2/2019
My son came to Pacific Lutheran after the school year had started. The principal and staff were warm and welcoming. They helped make this transition go smoothly and quick. The teachers are very knowledgeable and care for their students eduacation and well being.
5 2/23/2019
My child transitioned from homeschooling to PacLu this year and it has been a wonderful change! The staff truly care about the kids and their well-being, offering prayer and checking on them with me regularly. I feel completely comfortable knowing the kids are safe and having fun. It's a drama-free school. Definitely check it out!
5 2/23/2019
Pacific Lutheran Jr/Sr High School provides small class sizes, a safe environment, and a caring environment. The staff is supportive to the individual needs of the students.
5 2/23/2019
It`s a blessing to have Pacific Lutheran Jr./Sr. High school in our area. I am currently a 5th grade teacher at a christian private school. I like to recommend my graduating students to Pacific Lutheran Junior/ high school. We work hard to make sure our students grow academically and spiritually ; the partnership with Pac Lu is great because the ministry continues. My former students tell me that they love being a Pac Lu. There are a lot of resources and personal attention. It is an intimate family atmosphere that the students are used to.
5 2/23/2019
Good school. Christian based and nice community within. Extremely affordable.
5 2/23/2019
Pacific Lutheran High School is an ideal school for students to learn and apply their learning effectively. The leadership is fair and maintains a moral posture. Parents are encouraged to be part of the school family. This a great school!
5 2/23/2019
Paclu is a hidden treasure. I have two boys that go and it has been a breath of fresh air, in their education, friendships and finding a community that encourages them to stay on task and do their best.
5 2/23/2019
Everyone at PacLu made the transition from elementary school to middle school easy and as comfortable as can be for my son. Thank you for the support!
5 2/23/2019
I appreciate the communication between staff and parents and how there is so much to offer. As a small school, I was surprised at the availability of a 3D printer, Science labs, Spanish, Choir, sports, and more. Because of their WASC accreditation we don't have to wonder if our students will be ready for college, we already know. Overall, I would recommend this school and have :)
5 11/2/2018
I love Pacific Lutheran-jr-sr-high-schoolI have a daughter in high school and Jr high schoolPacific Lutheran has the best teachers and students.Christ center environment. If you are currently looking for a Jr high or high schoolI would totally consider calling to schedule a tour.
5 6/23/2017
Our family has been here for the past three years and I can honestly say that our experience has been a great one. The staff at Pacific Lutheran High School strives for excellence and are committed to integrity and godliness as well as promoting academic achievement. I highly recommend this school for those looking for a Christ-centered education.
5 6/12/2017
Pacific Lutheran is a place where you can experience a family-like environment that is driven by values that instill Christ-like ethic. Along with that, the academic environment is challenging and college preparatory. The faculty and staff have a high regard for truth and love and care for each child like they are their own! My daughter is now going off to college with scholarships in hand and I credit much of her success to Pac Lu! Thank you Pac Lu!!!
5 4/6/2017
Paclu has been a blessing to my kids! The faculties and staff are very knowledgeable, very pleasant, and welcoming!The school have great academic program to help students to achieve their goals.
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