About

Welcome to GSLS

Message From Head of School

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We're Glad You're Here

Welcome!

Welcome to Good Shepherd Lutheran School!

We are a school community that has come together with the common purpose of making a difference in the lives of children. Our mission describes it best, “It is the mission of Good Shepherd Lutheran School to offer an enriched environment with academic excellence in a nurturing Christian setting.” The school environment includes professional teachers partnering with highly involved parents who share their talents in meeting the needs of each student.

The uplifting school culture permeates everything we do—it can be seen in the joyous faces of our students, their self-confidence when performing in the school’s premier drama and music productions, and when they flourish academically. The whole child is supported to reach their full potential at GSLS, allowing them to thrive academically, socially, physically, and emotionally. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about our school and all the truly unique experience that is GSLS!

Best wishes,

Dr. Scott Root / GSLS Head of School

Good Shepherd Lutheran School is accredited by:

The Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC)

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Academics:

Our students enjoy a dynamic, research-based program that aims to serve the whole child. GSLS students average nearly one standard deviation above the norm on the Stanford10 standardized tests, and our eighth graders go on to premier high schools such as Marin Catholic, Branson, Marin Academy, San Marin STEM, Marin School of the Arts, and more. Students develop a deep love of learning beyond the years spent at GSLS by nurturing and encouraging a passion for exploring, examining, and engaging.
Best Pedagogical Practices:

GSLS is based on a mastery-learning program of study that emphasizes the school’s commitment to help each student succeed. Our teachers create highly planned lessons using cutting-edge, best pedagogical practices. The curricular review process uses research to emphasize project-based learning, varying learning modalities, and a counseling approach to social-emotional growth.
Community:

Joining GSLS is about more than finding a school for your child, it’s about being a part of a community of child-centered, like-minded educators and parents who want to work together to prepare each child for the 21st century. From teachers to staff members and administrators, we feel privileged to be involved in the aspirations of each child and blessed to be part of the excellent learning at GSLS.
Enrichment:

The K-5th grade Enrichment Program includes Spanish, STEM, music, band, drama, art, and physical education. Each enrichment class is taught by a Specialist Teacher who is an expert in their field. These programs are highly refined, dynamic, and engaging. The school is also renowned for its exceptional field trips and exciting Outdoor Education program. Middle School students enjoy a robust elective program featuring all the classes listed above and more.
Low Student-Teacher Ratio:

The GSLS preschool student-to-teacher ratio averages 8:1, elementary class sizes are below 24, and a teacher aide assists homeroom teachers in all K-5th grade classrooms. Aides work in differentiating instruction to meet the needs of each child. In Middle School, core classes do not exceed 26. Subject-area specialist teachers teach all 6th through 8th grade core classes.
Social-Emotional Development:

Social-emotional skills underlie interactions with students by adults who lead by example and use positive, restorative counseling practices that motivate students to take ownership of their learning and behavior. It takes a dedicated, student-centered community to create an environment where every student feels valued, understood and cared for.