Your FAQs Answered: Sierra Lutheran Middle School

1. What makes Sierra Lutheran Middle School different from other options?

Sierra Lutheran offers a Christ-centered, small-classroom environment with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio. Students are challenged academically, nurtured spiritually, and supported personally. Through academics, athletics, the arts, chapel, discipleship, and service, students discover their God-given gifts and develop strong character. They will also build relationships with teachers and staff, learn campus routines, and enter high school with confidence and a sense of belonging.

2. What is the cost?

3. Are there financial aid options?

Yes. Sierra Lutheran offers the following:

• Early Enrollment: New families who enroll by December 31 receive a $500 credit toward their first year’s tuition.
• Pay in Full: Families who pay in full by July 5, 2026 receive a 2% discount, a savings of $273.00.
• Multiple Students: Families with multiple students enrolled get $750 off.
• Church Worker: 25% off.
• Financial Aid: Need-based assistance of up to 33%, determined by the school’s financial aid policy and sliding scale.
• Scholarship Grant Organizations

4. Will middle school and high school have the same bell schedule?

We will have a shared bell schedule to simplify transportation. Separate entry points and other arrangements may help maintain age-appropriate spaces and routines.

5. When will middle school faculty be identified?

Staffing decisions will depend on enrollment numbers. Following the November 2, 2026, application launch, we hope to evaluate staffing needs by the end of December. We are also exploring potential candidates. If you know a qualified teacher who may be interested, please contact Tracy Fisher at tfisher@slhs.com.

6. How will the building accommodate middle and high school students?

The building was designed for approximately 300 students and currently serves 147, providing room for growth. We will have three designated classrooms for middle school students in one hallway. Middle school and high school will have separate lunch rotations and class rotations, while sharing chapel, honors classes, and select electives.

7. Will there be a parent information night?

Yes! We anticipate hosting several parent information nights. Our first parent information night will be Monday, December 7, at 5:30 p.m. at Sierra Lutheran.

8. How will you help students transition from elementary to middle school?

During the first week, students will participate in team-building activities and opportunities to make connections. Teachers will help them learn campus routines, classroom expectations, schedules, and available support resources. Our goal is for every student to feel welcomed, connected, and ready to learn.

9. How will you assess academic readiness and support different learning needs?

Students will complete brief baseline assessments in math and language arts to help us understand their readiness and identify areas where additional support may be needed. These assessments will take place the first week of school.

10. How will you address bullying and social conflicts?

We are committed to a safe, respectful, Christ-centered environment where every student is valued. We will take concerns about bullying, teasing, and exclusion seriously, respond promptly, and work with students and families as appropriate. We will also teach kindness, conflict resolution, and personal responsibility.

11. How will you help students develop independence and responsibility?

Teachers will explicitly teach students how to organize assignments, study for assessments, manage their time, and take responsibility for their learning.

12. How can parents get more information?

Parents can access school information through the Sierra Lutheran website or contact Tracy Fisher, Middle School Launch Director, at tfisher@slhs.com for more information.

13. What sports, electives, and extracurricular activities will be available?

Details are still being finalized and will be shared as they are confirmed.

14. How will you integrate faith into the middle school experience?

Faith will be central to the middle school experience. Teachers will integrate Christian perspectives into their curriculum, and students will participate in weekly chapel and small Falcon Family groups focused on Scripture, relationships, and spiritual growth. Our goal is to help students live out their faith through their actions, relationships, and service.

15. How will you prepare students for success in high school?

We are working with high school teachers to identify the academic and organizational skills students need to succeed. These expectations will guide middle school instruction and help create a strong, aligned transition into high school.

16. What will the curriculum look like?

Our curriculum will blend digital and traditional learning materials and align with Common Core Standards and educational best practices.

17. How will you create a developmentally appropriate environment for ages 11–14 while using high school resources?

We will provide age-appropriate expectations, dedicated learning spaces, and activities that build belonging and independence. Students will benefit from chapel, academic resources, electives, athletics, the arts, and positive connections across campus while receiving the guidance and supervision appropriate for their age.

18. Will students be allowed to use cell phones during the school day?

No. Cell phones must be powered off or silenced and stored out of sight throughout the instructional day, including classes, passing periods, and lunch, unless authorized by school administration.

Smartwatches may not be used for communication, texting, internet access, photography, or other phone-like functions. Headphones, earbuds, AirPods, and similar devices may not be used during the school day.

19. Where is Sierra Lutheran Middle School located?

The middle school will be located on the existing Sierra Lutheran High School campus in the Indian Hills area between Carson City and Douglas County.