Business Details
31 Years
experience
Christ-Centered Education for Lifelong Discipleship
Great Plains Lutheran High School has been dedicated to providing Christ-centered education for 30 years, beginning its 30th year in 2025. Our mission is to assist families in nurturing students as lifelong disciples of Christ through a program of quality academics that prepares students for college, technical school, or the workforce. With 140 students and a student-teacher ratio of 11:1, we maintain a safe, family-like environment where teachers and students demonstrate mutual care and respect. Our graduates consistently achieve a 94% enrollment rate in postsecondary education, supported by an average ACT score of 24 over five years.We prioritize affordability, keeping tuition among the lowest in the nation through generous donor support that covers the difference between educational costs and tuition payments. Our faculty includes 40% instructors with advanced degrees, and 97% of students participate in co-curricular activities. Located in Watertown, South Dakota, we serve a regional community with a 4% international student population and provide 1:1 chromebook access for all students. Our focus on spiritual growth, academic excellence, and community service reflects our commitment to Christian education as a transformative force in students' lives.
Services
Christ-Centered Education
College Preparation
Athletic Programs
Fine Arts Programs
International Student Support
Dormitory Housing
Student Assistance Programs
Endowment Opportunities
Community Donor Programs
Alumni Engagement
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We have 30 years of experience in Christ-centered education
- Our 11:1 student-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention
- 94% of graduates enroll in postsecondary education
- Tuition remains among the lowest in the nation through donor support
- 97% student participation in co-curricular activities
What people say
Lifelong discipleship focus
Supportive learning environment
Affordable tuition rates
Strong college preparation
Active community involvement
Services
Christ-Centered Education
Our academic program integrates Christian values with college preparatory curriculum. Students receive spiritual formation alongside rigorous academics in a supportive environment where teachers and students demonstrate mutual care and respect. The 11:1 student-teacher ratio ensures personalized attention while maintaining an average ACT score of 24 over five years.
Athletic Programs
We offer comprehensive athletic opportunities that develop character and teamwork. The 11th Annual GPL Open golf fundraiser supports these programs, providing equipment and facilities for student athletes. Our 97% participation rate in co-curricular activities includes regional competitions and community engagement events that build leadership skills.
Student Assistance
Through donor-supported funds, we provide tuition assistance for families with financial need. Endowment earnings and annual support programs help maintain affordability, keeping tuition among the lowest in the nation while covering the difference between educational costs and family payments.
International Program
Our international student population represents 4% of enrollment, creating cross-cultural learning opportunities. The program supports global perspectives through academic exchange and community integration, preparing students for service in diverse environments while maintaining a Christ-centered educational foundation.
Dormitory Housing
On-campus housing provides a structured environment for students requiring residential support. The facility includes modern amenities and communal spaces that foster spiritual growth and academic success, complementing our mission to nurture lifelong disciples of Christ through daily community living experiences.
People
David Maertz
President
Rev. David Maertz leads Great Plains Lutheran High School with 30 years of educational experience. He oversees academic programs, spiritual development, and institutional growth while maintaining personal connections with students and families in the school community.
Questions
What makes GPLHS different from other high schools?
Our Christ-centered education combines academic excellence with spiritual formation in a supportive community environment.
How do you support student spiritual development?
Daily chapel services, Bible classes, and service projects integrate faith into all aspects of school life.
What college preparation programs do you offer?
We provide college preparatory curriculum with 94% graduates enrolling in postsecondary institutions.
How can families receive financial assistance?
Student Assistance funds and endowments help reduce tuition costs for qualifying families.
What extracurricular activities are available?
97% of students participate in athletics, fine arts, and co-curricular programs.
Do you accept international students?
Yes, our international program supports 4% of our student population from diverse backgrounds.