Bethesda Lutheran School
and Early Learning Center
Primary School Grades K-4
Our mission is to partner with families to share the Gospel and love of Jesus Christ, and to provide an excellent Christ-centered education.
Bethesda’s multi-level classrooms allow teachers to give each child the support and encouragement he or she needs to thrive. We offer a rare combination of caring teachers, small classes and volunteers for personal attention.
A developmental approach in teaching is used to integrate subject matter.
The curriculum of Bethesda Lutheran School has a two-fold approach. As an accredited school by the South Dakota Department of Education we follow the prescribed curriculum and standards for all children in accredited schools in South Dakota in all subjects. At the same time, we are a Christian school, a vital ministry of Bethesda Lutheran Church. We are committed to teach the Scriptures. The values taught at Bethesda Lutheran School are based on God’s Word, and it is God’s Word that teaches us who God is, His saving love for us, and His purpose for our lives. The Word of God is woven into all our learning and our relationships.
Besides the usual core subjects, religion will also be taught. Children in religion class will be taught events and teachings from the Bible, how to pray, and Christian music. In addition, students will be assigned memory work to accompany the lessons taught in religion class. Some historical events, such as the Reformation, will be represented from the Lutheran perspective. However, respect and Christian love will be extended to children of all faiths. In those situations where there may be conflict between what is taught in school and what is taught in the individual child’s church or home, the parents are encouraged to use this conflict as a learning experience and an opportunity to present to their child their own viewpoint.
Students will be allowed to check out books to take home for their enjoyment.
Tinker Time (STEAM) and library skills are taught once a week. Music and Physical Education are taught twice a week.
Bethesda Lutheran School students have access to an ever-increasing world of electronic information. Students in grades K-3 will be practicing typing skills two afternoons a week.
Science includes hands-on learning activities to make it our favorite time of day. Many creative times, trade-books, and online videos also add to the Science program.
Tinker Time (STEAM) and library skills are taught once a week. Music, Art, and Physical Education are taught twice a week.
Field trips are considered to be part of the curriculum of the school because they contribute directly to the education of the child. Teachers plan field trips throughout the year.
Children will celebrate Reformation Day, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter/Passover.
Field trips are considered to be part of the curriculum of the school because they contribute directly to the education of the child. Teachers plan field trips throughout the year.
Science includes hands-on learning activities to make it our favorite time of day.
In addition to the regular religion class held in the classrooms, students will participate in a weekly chapel service every Wednesday from 8:45 – 9:15 a.m. These services are conducted by the pastor, faculty, various guests, and at times, the students themselves. Parents and friends of the children are welcome to attend.
An offering is gathered during these services and is used to help special ministries such as missionaries, new churches, and others. These mission opportunities are designated annually.
Bethesda 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, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies,
admissions, and other school-administered programs.
Church Email: bethesda@gwtc.net
School Email: bls@goldenwest.net
1537 Baltimore Avenue
Hot Springs, SD 57747
Church Phone: (605) 745-4834
School Phone/Fax: (605) 745-6676
