Kindergarten Admissions
IMPORTANT REGISTRATION DATES
FOR THE 2024-25 SCHOOL YEAR:
DECEMBER 4, 2023
NEW STUDENT ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONS OPEN
JANUARY 8, 2024
RE-ENROLLMENT BEGINS (CURRENT FAMILIES)
JANUARY 22, 2024
NEW STUDENT ADMISSIONS DECISIONS BEGIN
10 Traits of a Quality Christian Kindergarten Program
1. Christ-centered culture. From daily lesson content to weekly chapel services led by local pastors, everything we do at Sioux Falls Lutheran School revolves around learning how to faithfully and lovingly serve God and our neighbors.
2. Project-based instruction. Our kindergarten teacher uses a hands-on approach that keeps students engaged throughout the school year. She centers lessons in each individual subject around a common theme for each unit, and tailors instruction to specific student interests and needs.
3. Individualized attention for each child. Our elementary teachers use The Daily 5–an approach that promotes independent work in a small group setting–to strengthen reading, writing, and math skills. In addition to helping students develop independence and accountability, The Daily 5 provides teachers with opportunities to administer more one-on-one instruction and individual assessments.
4. Math and reading resources. Foundational math and reading skills are strengthened through the use of classroom resources, including manipulatives, technology, and a word wall referenced by students during reading and writing time. Our kindergartners also spend time reading with buddies from our middle school twice each month.
5. Complimentary Classes. In addition to core subjects, we incorporate art, music, physical education, and Spanish into our school day. Our music program is particularly strong and includes classroom music and Suzuki-based violin instruction in kindergarten.
6. Active or zoned recess. Our kindergartners participate in zoned recess multiple times every day. The program provides a physically and emotionally safe “zoned” play space that promotes improved student health, behavior, and academics. Activities are determined by our Active Recess Committee and rotate through zones on a weekly basis. In 2017, our program was identified by the National Lutheran Schools Accreditation Commission as a “research-based, powerful, and replicable” best practice.
7. Brain boosts. An extension of our zoned recess program, our classroom movement integration program incorporates “brain boosts” into the school day every 20 minutes. The boosts are designed to increase brain activity and help students get 30-60 minutes of daily physical activity, which helps improve academic performance and overall wellbeing.
8. Constructive use of technology. Our teachers are cognisant of screen time exposure, especially during the early elementary years, and incorporate technology into the classroom in age-appropriate ways. In kindergarten, promethean boards are used in small doses to enhance educational activities throughout the school day.
9. Practical conflict resolution strategies. At Sioux Falls Lutheran School, we use resources from Peacemaker Ministries to teach our students Christ-centered conflict resolution skills. By following the Christ-centered four-step process, our students learn problem-solving skills that will serve them well throughout the course of their lives.
10. Strong community. As kindergartners, our students are welcomed into family groups comprised of students in grades K-8. Group members work together throughout the school year to complete a variety of service projects and activities. Kindergartners participate in numerous other multi-grade activities throughout the year, including music programs, chapel services, and field day.
Schedule Your Campus Visit
Setting foot on campus plays an important role in helping us understand your family’s needs and giving you a true understanding of what it means to receive a Sioux Falls Lutheran School education. As a result, the first step in our admissions process is to schedule a campus visit. Please contact our admissions team at 605-335-1923 to book your visit. We look forward to meeting you!
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Sioux Falls Lutheran School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational or admission policies, athletics, and other school administered or sponsored programs.
SCHEDULE YOUR
VISIT TODAY
Call 605-335-1923
What families are saying:
“Each of my children attended kindergarten at a wonderful Christian school, but I can truly say that SFLS offers the most well-rounded kindergarten experience. The academics are excellent and the co-curricular components—such as art, music, religion/faith formation, and PE—are the perfect compliment. SFLS offers a challenging, yet nurturing, well-rounded approach to education and the growth of the entire child. We love the holistic approach it takes.”
–Rebecca, SFLS Parent
“I trust that our kids are safe and cared for at SFLS. I know they are learning at a rapid rate in each school subject, and most importantly–they are learning about how to be a Christian.”
–Brian, SFLS Parent
“I know many parents cringe at the sound of a beginner playing the violin… the squeaks and squawks of the bow… but not me. I enjoy every single minute of it and am overcome with how wonderful the Suzuki-based program is.”
–Jen, SFLS Parent
"We love Sioux Falls Lutheran School. It is a home with a family-friendly atmosphere. All the teachers know my children–even the ones that have graduated."
–Jane, SFLS Parent
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