Our school has two objectives:

1. To prepare your child to live as God's child forever in heaven.
2. To educate your child to live as God's child here on earth.

Our Christian education program is therefore set up to help your child begin the lifelong process of developing spiritually, academically, emotionally, and physically, according to their gifts given to them by God.

Spiritually
We prepare your child for life; a life that we know will continually face temptations to turn away from the Lord. There is no better way to prepare your child for such a struggle than by working diligently and cooperatively together, demonstrating our commitment to carrying out our God-given privilege and responsibility of teaching his word to the next generation.

Spiritual development includes: Daily Bible Study, Spiritual Devotions, Chapel Services, Praying for Others, Christian Fellowship, Sharing Jesus’ Love, and Confirmation Class.

Academically
Our curriculum is based on the requirements of the State of Michigan and the “Wisconsin Synod Course of Study for Lutheran Schools.” Nationally standardized tests may be used to help the teachers discover your child’s strengths and weaknesses. Our teachers have the flexibility to give your child extra help or advanced work as appropriate for his or her needs. At Good Shepherd, your child will be academically prepared to enter ninth grade.

Academic development includes: Challenging Courses, Sensitive to Abilities, Regular Assessment, Parental Partnership, Qualified Teachers, and a Balanced Curriculum of Religion, Social Studies, Science, Reading and Language, Music and the Arts, Mathematics, Field Trips

Emotionally
Joy, excitement, fear, nervousness, anger, loneliness, pain, sorrow, grief, peace. These are just some of the emotions children feel. Emotions are easier to manage when you have caring friends with which to share them.
When emotions run high, your child and your family are taught to lean on your Savior, Jesus. We rely on the gracious promises of God and his unconditional love for us as recorded in the Bible. This makes it possible for us to love and forgive others and develop Christian friendships that can last a lifetime.

Emotional development includes: Unconditional Love, Forgiveness, Lasting Friendships, Christian Support, Teamwork, Sense of Family, and a Loving, safe environment.

Physically
Research demonstrates that sound minds and spirits are best developed in sound bodies. The value of physical health in maintaining total wellness is unquestioned in today’s fitness focused world. Add that to what the Bible says, that our bodies are the God-given temples of the Holy Spirit, and you understand that they must be cared for with great respect.
Our school provides your child with a rich program of physical education, health instruction, and interscholastic sports to help your child develop the physical gifts God has given him or her.

Physical development includes: Physical Education, Health Instruction, Safety and Security, Fitness Activities, Sports, and Christian Wellness.

School Handbook - Revised October 2008