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OUR MISSION
is to prepare and equip students to excel in service, leadership, and learning while living as disciples who are rooted and grounded in the love of Christ.
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With every day comes an opportunity to live our mission: to guide students in pursuit of their goals, their growth, and their faith.
Joel S. Bahr, Head of School
“Lutheran West has given me a strong foundation through challenging, engaging classes and college credit opportunities. The teachers truly care and go above and beyond, focusing not just on grades but on learning skills that will benefit me long after high school.
Sophia Mende, Class of 2026
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Lutheran West students are encouraged to grow into lifelong learners under the guidance of dedicated Christian faculty.
High school academic programs allow students to solidify core topics and explore elective interests, preparing them for college and beyond.
Middle school students are prepared for success in high school and given a sampling of elective courses on which they may choose to focus in high school.
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With over 180 unique courses from 6th through 12th grade, Lutheran West provides an appropriately challenging core academic foundation while empowering students to explore a wide range of electives that reflect their personal interests and talents.
Christy Spiegel, Vice Principal of Curriculum & Instruction
In grades 6 through 8, students explore individuality and personal responsibility, grow as part of a supportive community, and lay the groundwork for high school.
MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM
Survey-Style Courses
Survey-style courses at the middle school level give students the chance to sample areas within a discipline, equipping them to make informed selections for high school classes in the areas of art, music, and world languages.
High School Credit Opportunities
Eighth grade students have the opportunity to earn high school credit through 10 unique courses designed to prepare them for success in Lutheran West’s high school curriculum.
Faith Development
Faith is at the core of our middle school experience. Students engage in dedicated faith programming, including weekly chapel services, Bible studies, and yearly faith-based classes and coursework designed to help them grow spiritually.
Camps & Educational Trips
Middle school camps and trips are crafted to enrich both academic learning and social development. Sixth graders participate in an educational overnight camping trip, while seventh and eighth graders take part in class trips to Washington, D.C. and throughout Ohio.
Extracurricular Activities
Middle school students are encouraged to explore their interests and passions through a variety of extracurricular opportunities. Offerings include theater, book club, academic challenge, robotics, art club, and more.
Athletic Programs
Students in grades 6–8 can participate in a growing number of athletic programs, developing their God-given talents alongside skills like leadership and perseverence. Current middle school sport offerings include football, basketball, volleyball, track, wrestling, cheerleading, and more.
Dedicated Middle School Area
At Lutheran West, middle school students have all of their core courses in a dedicated area of the building, while also experiencing all the opportunities and resources of the newly expanded campus.
HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
Honors, Advanced Placement, and College Credit Plus Courses
Lutheran West offers a wide range of Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and College Credit Plus (CCP) courses that allow students to deepen their learning, explore academic interests, and earn college credit—right on our campus. In total, 25+ of these advanced courses are offered at the high school level.
Lutheran West’s Centers of Excellence
Centers of Excellence provide students with the opportunity to focus their high school experience on areas that align with their interests, talents, and post-graduation goals. Current areas of focus include Business, Fine Arts, Athletics, Academics & Leadership, and STEM.
Extracurricular Activities
High school students are involved in a wide variety of clubs, service opportunities, leadership roles, and arts programs. From student government to theater productions, there’s something for every interest.
Athletic Programs
Athletic opportunities at Lutheran West include 20+ interscholastic sports, intramurals, and off-the-field roles such as team managers, broadcasters, and event staff, providing multiple ways for students to develop their God-given talents both on and off the field.
Faith Development
Students are encouraged to grow in their faith through religion curriculum, weekly chapel services, and engaging faith-based coursework. Our program challenges students to explore God’s purpose for their lives beyond high school.
Service Opportunities
Service is a cornerstone of Lutheran West student life. All students participate in annual service projects and dedicated days of service that promote compassion, responsibility, and leadership through action.
Traditions & Student Culture
Lutheran West’s rich traditions and vibrant student culture continue to shape the high school experience, creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
In grades 9 through 12, students dive deeper into curriculum, into their unique God-given talents and interests, into community and leadership, and into their faith.
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I was able to be a student-athlete and be active in the drama program at Lutheran West, I could do both. Centers of Excellence allow me to not only pursue both sports and the arts, but to dive deeply into those areas I’m so passionate about.
AJ Biascochea, Class of 2025
CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE
Centers of Excellence are curricular areas in which students can choose to focus their educational experiences according to their own emerging interests, talents, and goals. Unique to Lutheran West, this student experience positions graduates to become Christian leaders in growing and important fields.
The Senney Honors Academy
The Jochum Fine Arts Conservatory
The Senney Enterprises Business & Entrepreneurship Academy
Longhorn Athletics
The STEM Academy (coming soon)
“One of my favorite things about Lutheran West is that I can customize my educational path and really explore what I’m interested in. I’ve become so much more confident in what I want to do and in God’s direction for my next steps after my years at Lutheran West.
Chloe Campbell, Class of 2026
The Senney Honors Academy
The Senney Honors Academy encourages high-performing academic students to challenge themselves beyond traditional classroom learning in the areas of college preparedness, career readiness, and active leadership in our school community.
The Jochum Fine Arts Conservatory
Students in the Jochum Fine Arts Conservatory are immersed in their chosen arts discipline(s): visual art, instrumental music, vocal music, theater, or dance. They work alongside dedicated faculty, directors, and mentors to enhance their skills and express their Godgiven talent and creativity. They are poised to continue their craft beyond Lutheran West, whether in college, as a career, or as a positive contributor to their community.
The Senney Enterprises Business & Entrepreneurship Academy
The Senney Enterprises Business & Entrepreneurship Academy exposes students to valuable business and financial concepts and skills. Not only do they have classroom conceptual learning, but the Academy gives them the opportunities and resources to start and run their own real-world business ventures while still in high school. Exploration of a wide variety of business disciplines gives students who plan to pursue business in college or career a valuable insight into the area in which they’d like to focus. Students graduate with skills in financial literacy, management, sales & marketing, business operations, leadership, and more.
CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE
Longhorn Athletics
A cornerstone of the Lutheran West school community since the school’s 1958 founding, athletics drive home the Christian values for which Lutheran West students are encouraged to strive. Through athletic participation in a supportive faith-centered community, studentathletes build skills in perserverence, accountability, teamwork, communication, work ethic, and leadership. Each studentathlete is encouraged to use the gifts that God has given them to compete for their school and be a servant leader in their community.
The STEM Academy (coming
soon)
The STEM Academy will enable students to focus on the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathemetics, with courses that are immersive, hands-on, and modern. Students in the STEM Academy will dive deeply into these ever-expanding fields, preparing themselves for collegiate studies or careers in fields like Biomedicine, Coding, Engineering, Data Analytics, Robotics, Cybersecurity, and more. With state-of-the-art science and STEM labs, robotics equipment, a production studio, and experienced faculty, Lutheran West students are on the cutting edge of STEM disciplines. edge of these ever-expanding fields.
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Jesus got ahold of my life as a student at LW through friends and teachers. It was this experience that God used to motivate me to become a teacher so I could bring the same opportunity to my students.
Kurt Maechner ’94 Faculty
FACULTY AND STAFF
Lutheran West faculty and staff are more than teachers, coaches, mentors, and administrators—they are dedicated servant-leaders engaged in Christian ministry. With a deep commitment to nurturing the whole student, they support and encourage students to reach their fullest potential not only in the classroom, on the field, on the stage, and in the studio, but also in their relationship with God.
We believe that when students are guided by exceptional educators who also serve as Christian role models, their educational experience becomes richer, more meaningful, and rooted in purpose.
Chris Steinmann ‘00, Superintedent & CEO
I am beyond grateful for my Lutheran West arts experience, and could not imagine my high school experience without it. I’ve become a version of myself that I didn’t know existed: I’m more confident, more creative, more compassionate, and more excited for the future.
Grace Moore, Class of 2027
THE ARTS
At Lutheran West, we believe that creativity, music, and artistic expression are gifts from God. Through a rich variety of opportunities in the arts, students are empowered to develop their talents, express their unique perspectives, and celebrate their faith and humanity.
Through the arts, I’ve seen students grow in ways they never imagined— into mentors and leaders, into their Christian faith, into their own unique voices and perspectives, and into young adults who are confident in showing the world what they can do.
Caroline Pangrace, Director of The Jochum Fine Arts Conservatory
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When I’m in the art studio, I feel full and content. I have learned how to take inspiration from everything around me, and use it to create pieces that are beautiful representations of how I experience the world.
Avery Kollar, Class of 2029
Theater
Students explore their passion for theater and develop skills across all areas of production. In addition to performing on stage, they help to design and create sets & props, design and build costumes, manage lighting and sound, style hair and makeup, and more. Each school year features a full-length play in the fall, a musical in the spring, and a middle school play. Drama participants describe the award-winning program as a family—a supportive and rewarding community that becomes a cornerstone of their entire Lutheran West experience.
Instrumental Music
Lutheran West’s instrumental music program is open to students of all skill levels and offers a range of ensembles at the middle school and high school levels. Students grow in their musical abilities while rehearsing for and participating in performances, deepening their music theory knowledge, and celebrating God’s gift of music with their peers.
Vocal Music
At Lutheran West, the vocal music program invites students into a rich tradition of artistic expression and celebration of faith. Students cultivate both technical vocal skills and a lifelong love for the art of singing. Student vocalists lead peers in worship and rehearse diligently toward peformances that connect and inspire our community through the power of the human voice. With vocal ensembles offered at every level from 6th through 12th grade, all students with an interest in vocal performance are offered the opportunity to lift their voices in song.
ARTS PROGRAMS
Visual Arts
At Lutheran West, the visual arts are a space for discovery and self-expression. Students engage in both classical and modern disciplines—from the clay, paint, and canvas to the digital landscapes of photography and graphic design. Working alongside talented arts faculty, they explore endless possibilities of various creative media and the power of creating visual representations of their faith and their human experience.
Dance
In our state-of-the-art onsite dance studio, Lutheran West students take dance courses focusing on both dance technique and choreography. Dance methodology, history, and skill are emphasized, creating a well-rounded and immersive experience in the art of dance.
Being a student-athlete at West means the world to me. I’ve found my best friends, and we get to compete together for our school and encourage each other every day, not only on the basketball court and soccer field, but in every part of our lives.
Ella Heisner, Class of 2026
LONGHORN ATHLETICS
Lutheran West offers competitive interscholastic athletic programs that emphasize lifelong values like work ethic, perseverance, sportsmanship, and Christian leadership. Supported by exceptional facilities, a comprehensive athletic training and performance curriculum, and the supportive Longhorn community, student-athletes experience tremendous growth both on and off the field, court, and track.
“Each athlete is unique, and each needs different support to reach his or her goals. I’m blessed to be able to work with every Longhorn student-athlete to help them understand that being healthy, strong, and goal-oriented is a way to glorify God.
Dave Krieger ’08, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Sports Performance Teacher
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Our programs focus on both competitive success and the growth of each student as an athlete, teammate, and Christian leader. It’s inspiring to see student-athletes develop into confident young people who are prepared to embrace any challenge ahead.
Josh Malave ’08, Athletic Director
ATHLETIC PROGRAMS
High School
Men’s Baseball
Men’s Basketball
Women’s Basketball
Bowling
Cheerleading
Men’s Cross-Country
Women’s Cross-Country
Women’s Fast-Pitch
Softball
Men’s Football
Women’s Flag Football
Men’s Golf
Women’s Golf
Men’s Soccer
Women’s Soccer
Men’s Track & Field
Women’s
Track & Field
Indoor Track & Field
Women’s Volleyball
Men’s Wrestling
Women’s Wrestling
Middle School
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Basketball
Boys’ and Girls’ Bowling
Cheerleading
Boys’ and Girls’
Cross Country
Boys’ Football
Boys’ and Girls’ Golf
Boys’ and Girls’
Track & Field
Girls’ Volleyball
“Lutheran West is a place where each of us can play a role in making our school a positive and uplifting community. We all have different interests, and there’s room for everyone to get involved with something they find meaningful.
Adrianna Johnson, Class of 2025
STUDENT LIFE
Longhorns are active participants in our school community and are champions for one another. They create an environment rich with opportunities and meaningful ways to get involved.
Through clubs, activities, service, and support of one another in athletics and extracurriculars, students form meaningful connections and grow as leaders with a strong senses of purpose.
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I’m continually inspired by the creativity our students bring to building community. They’re always finding new ways to get involved—starting clubs, launching initiatives, and planning events that strengthen their connection to each other and make Lutheran West a truly unique place to be.
Jacob O’Hara ’07, Director of Student Life
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Having God at the center of my school experience has made everything more meaningful my courses, my extracurriculars, my friendships, and my direction for my future. Lutheran West has given me a foundation in faith that will never leave me.
Jayden Taylor, Class of 2027
FAITH & SERVICE
At Lutheran West, faith is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that academic excellence and spiritual growth go hand in hand. Through classes, athletics, arts, and extracurriculars, we strive to recognize God’s presence, follow His guidance, and reflect His love in all we do. Each students grows in a nurturing, Christ-centered environment—developing not only as a lifelong learner, but also as a compassionate leader and service-minded community member.
When academic excellence and faith development intersect, each student is nurtured, each individual is valued for their unique God-given attributes, and our entire community thrives.
Rev. Jeff Steele-Steeber, Campus Pastor
LUTHERAN WEST AT A GLANCE
Founded in
90%
college persistence rate (well above the national average of 78%)
20 average class size
745 students in grades 6-12
3
Dazzle Awards wins and 21 nominations during the past 6 years
5 Centers of Excellence: curricular areas in which students can choose to focus, supporting their emerging interests, talents, and goals
25+ student clubs active during an average school year
180 unique courses offered in an average school year
36,000 square feet of new academic and extracurricular spaces added in 2024
9,000+
hours of service to our greater community by Lutheran West students, faculty, and staff during an average school year
43 athletic teams in 18 programs
$21.5M
capital campaign, the largest in school history, enabling Lutheran West’s phsycial and programmatic expansion
35+
Honors, Advanced Placement, and College Credit Plus courses offered in an average year
6,000+ alumni around the country and the world
30
college credits with which the average Senney Honors Academy student leaves Lutheran West
21% of current faculty & staff are Lutheran West alumni
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I’m not entirely certain where my life will lead me, but Lutheran West has given me a foundation of education, faith, and confidence that I can apply to anything I choose to pursue.
Noah Csora, Class of 2025
BEYOND WEST
Lutheran West graduates are prepared for the next steps —whatever they may be. Longhorns know that they are ready to pursue their goals in continued learning, career success and fulfillment, and meaningful service to the world around them. While at West, each student is encouraged to consider their interests, talents, and God’s direction for their lives.
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I feel so fulfilled when students come to understand a clear direction for their lives beyond Lutheran West. We are sending them into the world as prepared and confident leaders.
Becky Slack, Director of Academics & School Counseling; Dean of the Senney Honors Academy
COLLEGE MATRICULATION
Lutheran West graduates are ready for anything that comes next. They’re poised to be Christian leaders in college, career, and community.
LUTHERAN WEST GRADUATES
in the last 5 graduating classes have been accepted to colleges and universities including:
FOREVER A LONGHORN
With over 5,000 graduates over 60+ years, Lutheran West alumni have made meaningful impacts in their careers and communities. They’ve taken diverse paths, but many credit their success to the foundation built at Lutheran West. Our alumni remain connected—supporting one another through career growth, personal joys and challenges, and shared faith.
I loved Lutheran West so much as a student, I couldn’t help but come back. Now, I get to help families explore and enroll at Lutheran West, the place that shaped and transformed my life. I know it will be just as impactful and important in their own family’s story.
Miranda Pflaum ’15, Vice Principal of Admissions
BECOMING A LONGHORN
Call 440-799-8328
Email Admissions@LutheranWest.com
Explore LutheranWest.com
Visit for a Scheduled Shadow Day or Campus Tour 3850 Linden Road
Rocky River, Ohio
Apply at LutheranWest.com/Apply
