Elementary and Middle at Salem Lutheran School

Where every student is known, challenged, and prepared—academically, spiritually, and socially.

Teacher teaching elementary and middle school students at Salem Lutheran School in Greenfield, MN

A Private School Where Students Thrive

Salem Lutheran School provides a rigorous, Christ-centered education for students in grades 1 through 8. Our campus in Greenfield, MN is built for personal attention—not crowds. Every child here is known by name and held to high standards.

 

Our two-grade classroom model sets Salem apart from other private schools in the area. Students receive personalized instruction, build deep relationships with their teachers, and develop leadership skills they carry into high school and beyond.

 

Families in Greenfield, Rockford, Hanover, Corcoran, Maple Plain, and Buffalo choose Salem because they want more than a school. They want a partner in raising confident, capable, faith-grounded kids.

The Two-Grade Classroom Advantage

Salem groups students across two adjacent grade levels. This model is research-backed and used in high-performing private schools across the country.

Students work at their actual level.

Not an artificial grade label. Advanced learners are stretched. Students needing support get it without stigma.

Older students become leaders.

Teaching and mentoring younger peers reinforces their own learning and builds real responsibility.

Younger students rise faster.

Daily exposure to older peers and advanced expectations accelerates academic and social growth.

Teachers know students deeply.

Students stay with the same teacher for two years. That means instruction is truly personalized.

Confidence grows naturally.

Returning students gain confidence as experienced members of their classroom community.

Explore Our Elementary & Middle School Program

Salem’s grades 1–8 program is built on three pillars: rigorous academics, well-rounded activities, and intentional classroom design.
Each one plays a role in preparing your child for high school and beyond.

Academics

Language arts, math, science, social studies, and more—all taught through a Christ-centered lens and aligned with state and national standards. Teachers meet each child where they are.

Extracurricular

Soccer, volleyball, basketball, band, piano, handbells, drama, and community service. Every student is encouraged to participate—no one gets cut.

Parent Resource

Two-grade classrooms (1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8) each with their own teacher, schedule, and expectations. Find teacher bios, supply lists, and daily schedules.

2026–2027 Tuition (Grades K–8)

Tuition as low as $5,510 and additional children discounts, with WELS/ELS and Anchored in Christ member rates available. Applications are accepted through FACTS beginning February 1.

What the Elementary and Middle Students Learn at Salem Lutheran

All courses at Salem are aligned with state or national standards and taught through a Christ-centered lens. We develop the whole child—mind, body, and spirit.

 
 

Word of God

Daily devotions, religion class, chapel, memory work, and catechism instruction in grades 7–8. Students grow in faith and learn to apply biblical truth to their lives.

Language Arts

Reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, spelling, phonics, speech, and communication. Students learn to use language effectively and think clearly.

Mathematics

Strong foundations in concepts, critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving. Skills that serve students well beyond the classroom.

Science & Social Studies

Life science, earth science, physical science, history, geography, civics, and current events. Students explore God's creation and their place in the world.

Specials

Music, art, physical education, and technology are part of every student's week. These subjects build creativity, coordination, and well-rounded confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salem's Elementary and middle School programs

Questions families ask when considering a private elementary or middle school.

What is a two-grade classroom, and how does it help my child?

A two-grade classroom groups students from two adjacent grades together—for example, 3rd and 4th. This model is backed by decades of research and is used in many high-performing private and Montessori schools.

 

It allows natural differentiation. Students work at their actual skill level, not a grade label. Older students develop leadership by mentoring younger peers, and younger students grow faster through daily exposure to advanced work. Teachers also know each student deeply over a two-year relationship.

How small are class sizes at Salem?

Our two-grade classrooms typically have 15–20 students with one teacher. This is significantly smaller than most public school classrooms and allows for truly personalized instruction.

 

Teachers know every child—not just their test scores, but their personality, learning style, and family. That kind of attention makes a real difference in how students learn and grow.

How does Salem compare to the local public elementary and middle schools?

Salem offers what most public schools cannot: small class sizes, personalized instruction, a faith-centered culture, and a two-grade model that builds leadership and confidence. Our curriculum meets or exceeds state standards, and students are assessed multiple times per year through FastBridge testing.

 

Beyond academics, we integrate character development and biblical values into every day. Parents are treated as true partners—not kept at a distance.

How does Salem prepare students for high school?

Our 7th and 8th grade program is intentionally rigorous. Students develop critical thinking, study skills, personal responsibility, and confident communication. They also complete catechism instruction during these years.

 

We maintain strong relationships with area high schools—both public and private—including West Lutheran High School. Salem graduates consistently perform well in their next educational setting.

What happens if my child struggles academically?

Because of our small class sizes, teachers notice struggles early and step in quickly. We differentiate instruction within the classroom, provide extra support during the school day, and communicate closely with parents.

 

Our goal is to build confidence through competence. We do not let students drift or fall behind without taking action

What extracurricular activities are available?

Salem offers athletics (soccer, volleyball, basketball, bowling, disc golf, and more), fine arts (band, piano, handbells, drama/public speaking), and service opportunities (mission offerings, Hanover Foodshelf, community projects).

 

Every student is encouraged to participate. No one is cut from teams or programs. We believe students grow when they are active, included, and challenged beyond the classroom.

How do you handle discipline and behavior?

Salem's culture is built on respect, accountability, and grace. Students address adults as Mr. and Mrs. Expectations are clear and consistent. When issues arise, we respond with both truth and love—just as we teach.

 

We are proactive. If a student is struggling socially or behaviorally, we notice early and work directly with the family to address it. Small problems get attention before they become big ones.

How are students assessed and how will I know how my child is doing?

Students take the FastBridge Assessment up to three times per year in math and reading. These results help teachers track growth, adjust instruction, and plan curriculum.

 

Beyond formal testing, you will hear from your child's teacher regularly. We communicate openly and often. If something is off, we do not wait for a scheduled conference to let you know.

Can my child transfer into Salem mid-year or from a public school?

Yes. Families are welcome to apply at any time. Because of our small class sizes and two-grade model, teachers can meet new students where they are and help them transition smoothly.

 

Many Salem families come from public schools in Greenfield and the surrounding area. We work with each family to understand their child's needs and make the adjustment as easy as possible.

Is private school worth the investment for elementary and middle school?

The elementary and middle school years are when academic habits, social skills, and character are formed. These are not years to leave to chance. At Salem, your investment goes toward small classes, personalized instruction, leadership development, and a faith-centered culture that shapes who your child becomes.

 

Multi-child discounts, member rates, and need-based financial aid are available to help make private education accessible for your family.

How involved can parents be at Salem?

Parents are partners at Salem—not spectators. We communicate clearly and respond quickly. You will have direct access to your child's teacher and regular updates on progress.

 

Families are welcome on campus and encouraged to participate in school life. We believe your involvement directly supports your child's growth and success. Learn more at our Parent Resource Center page.

What are school hours and is extended care available?

School runs from 7:45 AM to 2:15 PM. Extended care is available through our SailorCare program for families who need before- or after-school coverage.

 

Contact our office at (763) 498-7283 for current SailorCare hours and availability.

Ready to See the Salem Difference?

Schedule a tour and discover why families choose Salem Lutheran School for their children’s education.