Concordia Lutheran School

Concordia has gotten smaller over the past several years that our children have been there and it really isn't the same place we came to know and love. As the school has contracted in size, personnel have been pared down so that there is really not much depth in staff (Teaching & Administrative), this is compounded by the fact that key administrative positions are not held by qualified personnel with training in education. The principal is not engaged and defers the majority of administrative tasks to others. The science (and to a certain extent mathematics) education is simply not up to standard, and busywork with an unsynchronized curriculum is the norm. The music and English programs remain strong, however. (leading to the 2-star overall rating) Parental involvement in the school is a strong point, but because of the relatively weak administrative leadership, this leads to difficulties due to the fact that conflicts of interest arise due lack of clear boundaries between staff, families and students. If you are looking at Concordia I would urge you to spend time at the school and make your own critical appraisal. There are other reasonably priced private school options in Tacoma.
—Submitted by a parent

I was a student at this school during the 2012/2013 school year but left because I was not welcomed, assisted, or treated well at this school. I felt, academically, they were not as good as my last school.

My child attended this school in the 2012/2013 school year. It was an unfortunate experience for our family. My child was not treated well at this school. The reception for a newcomer was not a welcoming environment.
—Submitted by a parent

My daughter has been able to grow and excel at Concordia over the past four years. The school is large enough to provide some real-world challenges, but small enough to provide deeper relationships in a place where she feels safe and free to be herself. Like most schools, we are Blessed to have several stand-out teachers that rock! Overall, we have an above-average staff. I feel like my daughter is not only learning but also building upon a strong foundation of values. It's funny, we are Catholic, but we've never felt like outsiders, nor has anyone ever made us feel different because we attend church outside of the Lutheran network. We aren't judged and we have made a variety of friends from a range of backgrounds. In fact, we are happy to have grown close to so many families - and though we do not live next door, it feels like a community; certainly some friends for life.
—Submitted by a parent

Concordia Lutheran in Tacoma teaches to the "whole" child. They teach strong values in a positive, loving environment.
—Submitted by a parent

I have been a Concordia parent for 7 years. Both of my children have attended Concordia since Kindergarten. We have had an amazing experience in this school. In addition to getting a great education academically, they are turning into well balanced, well rounded people who care for others and who have developed a strong sense of who they are as Christians. I have to give credit where credit is due and say that the teachers at CLS have had a huge part in helping my kids grow into who they are today. If you are looking to provide your kids with a firm foundation for life, this is the place.
—Submitted by a parent

Concordia is a wonderful place. Teachers go out of their way to offer relevant learning and the Resource Room provides opportunities for kids who need help and also enrichment. Jesus is at the core of everything they do. The parent-teacher league is strong and active. My children have been nurtured and are very well rounded because of the education they received at CLS.
—Submitted by a parent

We transfered in from a smaller school, and I can not tell you how happy we have been with the Administration, the Teachers, the programs, and the educations, support and love this school shows every family. I really feel we have been blessed and plan to continue with them.
—Submitted by a parent

As a Concordia parent I had to address the neagative review by the person who only gave one star for this school....My kids have been attending Concordia for 6 years and I cannot say enough good things about it! The teachers are definately not 'my way or the highway' personalities as stated in that strange review. My kids have had 6 different teachers so far. So far I would say 5 out of the 6 are exceptional teachers and the other I would consider average. All 6 of them have been responsive to my children's needs academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. Personally, I couldn't be happier with the teaching staff. The administration staff has also been very accomodating. They are approachable, present on campus and always interested in the needs of the families.
—Submitted by a parent

I just graduated 8th grade from CLS. I went to school there for a total of nine years (kindergarten - 8th). I loved it there. The teachers make learning fun and easy. They show us how we're suppost to live our lives for God. I will miss it a lot next year.
—Submitted by a student

My children have been attending Concordia for 8 years now. From the very beginning the teachers surrounded my child with love and always exhibited examples of the grace of God. We are coming to the end of our time at Concordia and are checking out other schools for school as we can not afford schools in the private sector. I know that we have given our children a firm foundation to move into the world by providing them with their education at CLS. Science is lacking but they are making strives towards improvements. The teachers are a true blessing in their commitment to their students.
—Submitted by a parent

Concordia has been the best choice for our children that we've ever made. Our kids have attended for 5 years and we are completely satisfied. If you're wondering if it's worth the money- it is. Giving your children the gift of a well-rounded education provided in a loving environment is an investment that will pay you back so much more than you put in. Their music programs are wonderful (my 10 year old now plays the violin). They have numerous sports programs, etc. This is without a doubt the best school our kids have ever attended. From Pre-K on up, the teachers are involved and knowledgeable. Wonderful experience with every staff member- including Sue at the front desk!
—Submitted by a parent

Concordia Lutheran provides an individual approach to education, while constantly striving to challenge each child. I come from an extremely large family, whose children have gone through a wide range of schools, private and public. In comparison to the other schools available locally, Concordia is tops at academic education and spiritual growth. Jesus is the main focus in every classroom, hallway & play ground. Thank you Concordia for going above and beyond for my children!
—Submitted by a parent

When we first got into this school, it was like arriving in heaven. The people at Concordia are genuine. There are kids obviously enjoying their time with each other in all the classrooms. The evidence of a Christ-centered environment is apparent and reassuring.
—Submitted by a parent