About

Welcome to GSLS

Message From Head of School

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We're Glad You're Here

Welcome!

At Good Shepherd, we believe children thrive when they are both deeply known and deeply challenged.

That belief shapes everything we do, and it is one of the reasons I am so proud to lead this remarkable community.

When children feel known, supported, and valued, they develop the confidence to embrace challenge and think critically, solving problems creatively and discovering what they are capable of achieving. At Good Shepherd, academic excellence and a nurturing environment are not competing priorities, they strengthen one another.

As we celebrate Good Shepherd Lutheran School's 50th year, we are grateful for the generations of students, families, faculty, and staff who have built this community. We also recognize our responsibility to ensure that Good Shepherd continues to thrive for generations to come, preparing both our students, and our school, for the future with confidence and purpose.

One of the greatest joys of my work is spending time in classrooms. On any given day you might find kindergarten students discovering the joys of reading, fifth graders leading chapel, middle school students debating big ideas, musicians rehearsing for a performance, or students collaborating to solve authentic problems. These everyday moments capture who we are: A joyful community where learning is meaningful and relationships matter, and every child is encouraged to become their very best self.

Those moments are made possible by exceptional teachers who know their students well, inspire curiosity, and create classrooms where every child is challenged and supported, where they are encouraged to grow. Every day I have the privilege of working alongside educators whose expertise, care, and commitment make Good Shepherd a special place.

One of the greatest strengths of Good Shepherd is our community. Families are true partners in their children's education and shared values guide the way we learn and lead. We strive for a community where every child has a genuine sense of belonging.

Throughout my career, one belief has remained constant: great schools never stop learning. We celebrate what we do well, remain open to new ideas, and continually look for thoughtful ways to make an exceptional school even stronger. Our commitment is to provide an educational experience that prepares students not only for success in high school, but for lives of purpose, curiosity, and meaningful contribution.

I hope you'll visit our campus. You’ll meet our wonderful students and teachers, and experience for yourself what it means to be part of a community where every child is deeply known and deeply challenged. I would be delighted to welcome you personally.

Warmly,

Joanne Walsh
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.