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St. Paul Lutheran School is a living example of the blessings of the Lord and the value of persistence in faith. Virtually every pastor in the congregation’s 110 plus years of existence felt the need for a school in the congregation; circumstances and differences of opinion combined to prevent the establishment of Christian education for our children for almost 75 years.
In 1896, Rev. Paul Lehmann arrived to serve St. Paul. Immediately after his arrival the congregation voted to purchase desks at a cost not to exceed $35 and began a parochial school. Tuition was $1.25 for children over thirteen and $1.00 for those under thirteen. The teacher of the school was the pastor. When he accepted a call to another field, the school closed.
A second attempt was made in 1904 after the arrival of Rev. L. J. Roehm. The school opened with three students and eventually increased to eleven children. Unfortunately, the school closed in May 1905, largely because several children moved back to Europe.
Over the next several years attempts were made to institute a parochial school, even attempting a Saturday school. It was only after years of struggle in 1931 that a Christian Day School was again established as a result of the perennial efforts of Pastor Geisler. The determination of the congregation was tested once more when Pastor Geisler was called home to heaven and the “fiery trials of the depression” devastated our country. As a result, in 1934 the school closed its doors.
Many more attempts to revive the school occurred between 1935 and 1963. Through the leadership of Rev. Gerald Otte who arrived in May of 1963 and John Goeke, who was installed as Director of Christian Education and Youth in September of 1968, they were able to succeed in establishing a school where others had failed. Despite the pessimism of those who had seen previous attempts fail, a kindergarten was opened for the 1969-70 school year. Ms. Emily Schmidt taught the 15 students who attended that first year. In 1970-71, a preschool and a first grade were added; in each following year, one grade was added. By the time Mr. Goeke left St. Paul in 1975, the school was operating classes for children from preschool through fifth grade.
By 1977, the school as we know it today was well established. It is a place where the entire child is nourished, and the success of our graduates attests to the quality of the education received here.
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