Rooted in Christ
At Bethany Lutheran School, Christ is at the center of everything we do. Our students learn through a Christian worldview, growing not only in knowledge and skills, but also in faith. Our faith shapes how we learn, how we treat one another, how we serve, and how we use the gifts God has given us. We want our students to know who they are as children of God, recognize the gifts He has given them, and use those gifts to love Jesus and serve others. Our Middle School is a place where students are known, challenged, encouraged, and loved as they grow into confident young Christian leaders.
Preparing Students for High School and Beyond
Our rigorous academic program is intentionally designed to prepare students for the expectations of high school. Our middle school students benefit from an experienced and highly qualified teaching team. Dr. Reed, Mr. Rogers, and Mrs. Daskas bring advanced degrees and more than 60 years of combined classroom teaching experience to Bethany. In addition, all three have completed the colloquy coursework through Concordia University, providing them with a strong foundation in Lutheran theology and education. Their experience, knowledge, and commitment to Christian education allow students to be challenged, supported, and prepared for what comes next.
Students experience a strong core curriculum in Mathematics, Literature and Grammar, Humanities and Geography, hands-on laboratory sciences in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, along with advanced opportunities, including Honors Math (Algebra). Additionally, Civics and U.S. History are an important part of our middle school curriculum. Students study both the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions, while learning how our nation developed over time. Through a Christian worldview, students are prepared to become informed, responsible citizens of America, as one nation under God.
Technology is integrated throughout the middle school experience. Students use Google Classroom and other digital tools to help them develop the independence, responsibility, and organizational skills they will need in high school. Learning also extends beyond the core subjects through a wide variety of electives. Students can explore their interests and discover new talents through courses such as Home Economics, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Knowledge Bowl, Honors Literature, Drama, Arts, and more.
Opportunities to Compete, Lead, and Serve
Our students have many opportunities to find their place and get involved. Athletics include volleyball, cross country, basketball, cheerleading, and track. With our no-cut philosophy, students have the opportunity to participate, develop their skills, experience teamwork, and represent Bethany with pride. Our athletes have also enjoyed tremendous success competing at Lutheran Sports Association competitions at the state level.
Leadership and service are important parts of the Bethany experience. Students have opportunities throughout the year to put their faith into action by serving others. Qualifying students can also participate in the Lutheran Junior Honor Association (LJHA), which recognizes and encourages scholarship, leadership, service, and Christian character. All students are given meaningful opportunities to put their faith into action by serving our community, from recognizing and thanking local firefighters to cleaning up local roads, or writing cards and messages of encouragement to our senior citizens.
Some of the most memorable learning happens outside the classroom! Our sixth grade students enjoy a week of outdoor education experience at Walcamp, where they learn, grow in faith, build friendships, and experience God’s creation. Additionally, our seventh and eighth grade students have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. for a class trip. Students experience our nation's history firsthand as they visit historic landmarks, memorials, museums, and other important sites!