Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to be Lutheran to attend St. John Lutheran School?
No. Families of our school come from all different denominational backgrounds. St. John is a ministry outreach to families of both our congregation and community.

2. Is St. John accredited?
St. John is accredited by the National Lutheran School Association. The standards either meet or exceed those set forth by the state of Indiana. St. John Lutheran School is also a member of the Indiana Non-Public Education Association. Due to the accreditation process, St. John is committed to an ongoing process of evaluation and improvement.

3. What is the process for enrolling my child?
Each applicant must complete an application form. Children entering grades 1-8 will have an interview with the principal. In some cases, it may be necessary to conduct a skills assessment. The principal will present the application to the Board of Christian Education with a recommendation to either approve or deny the registration. The decision of the Board will be made in writing to the family. Each new student must serve a 6 week probationary period. Final acceptance will be determined after that 6 week period. Again, notification will be made in writing to the family as to the decision regarding final application.

4. How much does it cost to send my child(ren) to St. John?
Please click on the "Tuition and Fees" tab for the tuition rates, based on church membership and multiple child discounts. Multiple child discounts do not apply to the Pre-Kindergarten program. Click on "Pre-Kindergarten 4 year Old Class" for specifics regarding our Preschool program.

5. Do students in multi-grade classrooms learn as much as those in single grade classrooms?
Yes. Our dedicated faculty and administration work very diligently to provide opportunitites for each student to learn to the best of his/her God-given ability.

6. Does St. John follow the same calendar as South Dearborn Community Schools?
In most cases, we do follow the same calendar. However, there will be slight differences. Therefore, it is important that you follow the calendar given to you at final registration.

7. Can my child(ren) ride the bus to and from school?
Bus service is provided for children of St. John in grades K-8 who live in the South Dearborn school district. More information may be obtained by calling the South Dearborn Administration Office.

8. Is there a hot lunch program?
Yes, our school is proud of the hot lunch program that we offer. The cost for lunch is $2.00 per day. Students may substitute the entree for a peanut butter & jelly or cheese sandwich or a cheese sandwich. Extra milk may be purchased for 30 cents, and extra entrees are 75 cents. We participate in the federal free and reduced lunch programs for qualifying families.

9. Does St. John offer an extended care program?
Yes, we currently offer extended care after school until 6:00 p.m. for all St. John students. A snack is served at 3:30. A nominal fee applies for extended care services. Before school care beginning at 6:45 is available with a reservation. 

10. Does St. John have an early entrance policy for Kindergarten?
According to state policy, children must turn 5 years of age before August 1st to enter Kindergarten. A parent who has a child that will be 5 years of age before September 1st may make application to the Board of Christian Education for early entrance into Kindergarten.

11. Do St. John students have the opportunity to participate in sports or extra-curricular activities?
Yes, St. John offers extra-curricular activities. Students in grades 4-8 may participate in volleyball in the fall and in basketball in the winter. Students in grades 5-8 may participate on the yearbook committee. Students must be academically eligible to participate. These eligibility requirements are found in the school handbook.

12. Who do I need to ask if I have any questions?
Many people are available to you to answer any questions you may have. Pastor Davis, Mrs. Terri Schmeltzer, and our office manager, Lisha Seibert, should be your first resources. You may also send questions via email to sjohnschool_639@comcast.net.