Parent involvement is one of the strongest supports a child can have in school, and many families in Farmington want a Christian school that treats them as true partners. At St. Paul Lutheran School in Northville, the school-family partnership is part of the school's purpose. This page explains how parental engagement works at St. Paul, the involvement opportunities available, and how your family can take the next step.
A Christian School Built to Support Parents
St. Paul Lutheran School exists in part to assist parents in raising their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. The school's mission also includes "Valuing family life" and encouraging the development of Christian relationships in the home, school, church, and community.
This focus shapes how the school works with families every day. In the principal's welcome letter, smaller classes, dedicated teachers, and supportive, involved parents are described as a dynamic educational team that supports students from Kindergarten through 8th grade.
The impact reaches beyond the students themselves. St. Paul notes that its influence extends to families, and parents often share how much they learn from their children.
What a School-Family Partnership Looks Like
A strong partnership depends on trust, communication, and shared values. At St. Paul, parents are recognized as the primary guides in their children's lives, and the school works alongside them.
Parents Lead on Sensitive Topics
St. Paul recognizes that parents hold different views on when certain sensitive information should be taught. For this reason, the school leaves sex education to parents to discuss with their children. Appropriate teaching materials are available for parents to borrow and use at home.
The school's dress code reflects the same respect for families. It states that guiding children in proper clothing and grooming is primarily the role of Christian parents.
Open Communication About Curriculum
The St. Paul curriculum guide invites parents to discuss any questions about the curriculum with teachers or the principal. Parents are also expected to support the curriculum, which helps students hear a consistent message at home and at school.
Teachers Who Know Your Child
Small class sizes make parental engagement more personal and effective. Here are a few features that help teachers and families work closely together:
- Kindergarten classes have a maximum of 16 students.
- Grades 1 through 8 have a maximum of 20 students.
- The average teacher-to-student ratio is one to six.
- In most cases, teachers work with each child over two years, which gives parents a consistent point of contact.
Involvement Opportunities for Parents
St. Paul encourages parents who want to volunteer their time and talents to get involved. Parent volunteers serve either in a particular classroom or with general school tasks. Current volunteer opportunities include:
- Parent Teacher League
- Library
- Room Parents
- Field Trip Driver
- Christmas Shop
- VIP Luncheon
- School Auction
- Lunch Room Parent
Getting started is simple. Follow these steps to begin volunteering:
- Let the school know you are interested by contacting your child's classroom teacher or the school office.
- Complete a volunteer application and show a photo ID, which is required for all volunteers.
- Receive your placement. The principal or the classroom teacher makes all decisions regarding the placement and responsibilities of volunteers.
You can find full details on the Get Involved page.
The Parent Teacher League and School Community
St. Paul has an active Parent Teacher League (PTL) that brings families together and supports school programs. The PTL offers "Ice Cream Fridays," with a variety of ice cream treats at lunchtime on Fridays, and the proceeds support PTL programs for the school.
Families can also support the school community in everyday ways. St. Paul participates in the Kroger Community Rewards Program, which earns funds for the church and school whenever registered families use their Kroger Plus Card.
These shared efforts help build a school community where families know one another and work toward common goals. A family atmosphere in each classroom is one of the reasons St. Paul encourages families to consider the school.
Faith-Building Resources for the Whole Family
Christian education at St. Paul is designed to strengthen faith at home as well as at school. The school provides families with access to RightNow Media, a large library of faith-based videos for kids, youth, parents, married couples, and other adults. Families who do not yet have access can contact the school for an invitation.
Students also share their faith with the wider church family. Students in grades 3 and 4 sing in church at St. Paul at least four times a year, giving parents meaningful opportunities to worship alongside their children.
Extracurriculars That Involve the Family
Several extracurricular activities at St. Paul give families more ways to connect:
- Bible Quizzing: Students in grades 2 through 8 join teams to memorize God's Word, with weekly practices and competitions.
- Cub Scouts: The program includes a focus on family understanding, character development, and respectful relationships.
Support for Working Families
Many involved parents also have busy work schedules. St. Paul offers morning care from 7:30 to 8:30 am and aftercare from 3:30 to 6:00 pm, with the school day running from 8:45 am to 3:30 pm. For families commuting from Farmington to Northville, extended care can make daily schedules more manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my family need to be Lutheran to enroll at St. Paul?
No. St. Paul welcomes children of all faiths, socioeconomic, and ethnic backgrounds. Approximately 42 percent of the student body is non-Lutheran.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Contact your child's classroom teacher or the school office to share your interest. All volunteers complete a volunteer application and show a photo ID before serving.
What is the Parent Teacher League?
The Parent Teacher League is St. Paul's parent organization. It supports school programs through activities such as Ice Cream Fridays.
Can I talk with teachers about what my child is learning?
Yes. The curriculum guide invites parents to discuss any questions about the curriculum with teachers or the principal.
Which grades does St. Paul serve?
St. Paul offers a complete program of Christian education for students from Kindergarten through grade 8, so parents can stay connected to one school community for many years.
Take the Next Step Toward a True School-Family Partnership
Parental involvement shapes a child's education, and St. Paul Lutheran School welcomes parents as partners in that work. From volunteer roles and the PTL to faith resources for the whole family, there are many ways to be part of the school community.
If your family in Farmington is looking for a Christian school that values your role as a parent, we would love to meet you. Schedule a tour or request more information to see how your family can get involved at St. Paul.