About

Welcoming. Diverse. Faithful.

Steeped in tradition.

Grace Lutheran School first opened its doors in 1896 to prepare students to be witnesses to the good news of Jesus Christ in their everyday lives and vocations. Our vision today remains the same: to equip every student for a life of faithful service through strong academics and a focus on character development. We serve students in River Forest, Oak Park, Melrose Park, Maywood, Forest Park, Elmwood Park, Chicago, and many other surrounding communities.

Our mission statement.

Our mission is to bring in, build up, and send out disciples for Jesus Christ. We prepare students for a life of service by helping them grow in faith, knowledge, and character.

Our whole-child approach.

At Grace School, education is a shared effort between teachers, students, parents, and church. We take a whole-child approach, guiding students’ academic, personal, and spiritual growth. And not just in the classroom, but in worship, on the playground, on athletic teams, and through service. Our educational community is flexible and responsive to the needs of all students, ensuring we cultivate the unique gifts and abilities of every child.

What we strive for.

Faith-focused

We center our lives around God’s grace and love. We worship God in daily devotions, prayer, and weekly chapel services. Children learn the story of Jesus’ love for us in religion classes. We put our faith into action in service projects and in the way we live with one another every day.

Academically rigorous

We provide challenging academics in an environment responsive to the unique needs of our students. Through individualized attention and support, our students consistently test well above national averages and are admitted into prestigious, college-preparatory high schools throughout the area.

Service-minded

We teach children to care for one another and for our world. We support and encourage them to be servant leaders, always striving to be an example for others. Whether in the classroom or on the playground, we guide our students as they learn to serve, stand up for each other, and take responsibility for their actions.

Our Lutheran heritage.

Our school is part of Grace Lutheran Church, an independent Lutheran congregation grounded in the promises of God through Jesus Christ. We firmly believe there is a place for everyone in the family of God. We welcome people of every race and ethnicity. Our church leadership is not restricted to men. We see people of all sexual orientations and gender identities as one with us, as children of God. And we believe God gives each person unique strengths and gifts that are meant to be cultivated, so they can become who they were created to be.

Grace Lutheran Church

Testimonials

I cannot express how well our child has transitioned from public school to Grace. From academia to after school activities, the experience has been spectacular! The school curriculum aligns with our vision for a good education. There is a focus on learning, mentoring, and guidance to help our child adjust and excel as an individual student. Grace is preparing her with techniques and learning that provides her with good life skills. The sports program has been great for her mind and body. We have seen the significant and positive influence that Grace School has had on our child. The entire staff and student body at Grace welcomed our child with open arms. We feel right at home.
Ursula, parent of 5th Grade student

Grace has been an amazing school for my three children. We have found that the school is very collaborative and parents, students, teachers, and other staff work towards maximizing the student experience. There is a focus on hard work, character, and faith development and all staff is there to make sure no one slips through the cracks. The teachers love what they do and bring energy, compassion, and excellence to the classroom. I am blessed to have found this wonderful school for my children.
Marni, parent

Even though we live in a highly regarded public school district, we have never regretted the money we give to send our kids to Grace. My husband and I are both teachers ourselves and can’t say enough about having our kids in an environment that is small enough to individualize instruction, tend to their spiritual selves, and encourage their participation in everything from basketball to handbells. I can’t say enough about the top-notch teachers who set high standards while also loving our kids fiercely.
Amy, parent

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