Immanuel Lutheran School

We researched and visited many schools in Westchester, Hillside, Melrose Park and Oak Park and selected Immanuel Lutheran. We are impressed by many things, but one important aspect of Immanuel that I did not see at other schools was the ability to partner with the teacher and develop an individual plan for my child. The teachers are not only highly educated, but take the time to learn the strengths and weaknesses in each child and due to the small class sizes, they are able to work with each child and develop specific plans for them. My son excelled in math and reading, so he is able to go to the next grade for math and reading. Most schools, due to large class sizes, are not able to accommodate children in this way. Although our family are not members of a Lutheran church, the spiritual guidance and influence my son receives does not differ from our Christian teachings. My son also enjoys playing soccer and being a part of the boys scouts (which are both offered through the school). We are very involved parents and understand the value of good education. I couldn't imagine sending my son to any other school than Immanuel Lutheran.
--Submitted by a parent

We sent our son to Immanuel for kindergarten during which time he excelled. For first grade we thought we would save our money by sending him to our local public school. That school was highly rated so it sounded good. What a mistake that was. He not only regressed academically, but learned wonderful things; such as profane language ( yes, in first grade.) Now he's back at Immanuel and has been for the last two years. He's back on his academic track, in third grade reading and doing math at a fourth grade level. Plus he's getting a solid moral and practical background. The sports programs are great. Couldn't be happier worth every penny. One of the lowest tuition's around.
--Submitted by a parent

As a Lutheran School, their mission is to give children a Christian education. However, the highly qualified staff and small class sizes ensures that each child receives the core curriculum, necessary enrichment and individual attention he or she deserves in addition to a spiritual foundation that can be built upon at home. The church supports the school with direct donations, tuition assistance, volunteering for PTL fundraisers and by splitting their own fundraising dollars. This helps keep the tuition low in comparison with other local private schools. The school goes on many field trips, offers before and after school care, piano, cooking club, math club, tutoring, martial arts, sports, monthly PTL events and more. The teachers are disciplined and united, yet caring, concerned and open-mined. They support each other and work together with parents to provide academic and spiritual growth. We couldn't be happier.
--Submitted by a parent

If your child is not Lutheran, then don't send them here. They say they won't try and indoctrinate your child but they do. The teacher brow beat my child and made him feel like an outcast because we are not Lutheran and do not believe their teachings. The library has books on how to be a witch and wizard (casting spells, etc.). When the principal was told about it, they down played it and kept the books. We took our child out! English class was good, but math was very poor. It's more like a cult, than a school. They have limited funds and even though you pay tuition, they're always looking for money. Also, part of the fundraisers goes to the church, which we do not support. They also force your children to sing in the church choir, even if they are not members, unless they sing at their own church. Very small school and it looks old, dusty with a gym floor in need of a cleaning and buffing.
--Submitted by a parent

I have been an Immanuel parent for 3 years now & I am very pleased. My child is thriving academically, socially & spiritually. The teachers communicate well with the parents and on the few occasions where I had concerns it was easy to sit down and discuss the issue & come to a solution. The staff will truly care for your child just like family and the girls volleyball & basketball teams are AMAZING! I also enjoy the way all gatherings open & close with prayer. The one improvement I would suggest is consistency with the written policies vs. the carrying out of those policies. All in all Immanuel is a wonderful place to call home!
--Submitted by a parent

My son is new at the school and so far so good. Everyone is extremely nice and friendly including most of the parents that I have met thus far. The only thing that I can see becoming an issue is the lack of extra help as far as an after school homework club, math club etc... Up until this point my son has attended all public schools and the major difference that I see is that there is little to no extra help offered for the struggling student. I was drawn to the school because of the small class size and Christian education and beliefs but I also was under the impression that because of that more 1 on 1 time witht the teachers would be offered. All and all we have had a good experience so far just wish more 1 on 1 help was available
--Submitted by a parent