FAQs
Below you will find a number of the most frequently asked questions that pertain to our school. We hope the questions and answers listed below will give you a picture of our school. Please feel free to contact us anytime if you have questions.
Since we are a Lutheran elementary school, religion is the most important subject in our curriculum, and Bible teachings permeate the secular curriculum wherever applicable. On the average, there is about one hour of formal religious instruction each day, but that too varies, depending on the grade level of the student. The students in grades 5-8 participate in regular catechism instruction where they are taught the doctrines of the Bible as proclaimed by the Wisconsin Ev. Lutheran Synod.
Our average class size varies. With combined 1st through 8th grade classrooms, total classroom size ranges from 15-22 students. Care is taken to see that a class does not get too large so that the teacher is able to give each child the individual attention needed.
Yes. We offer care before preschool, during the midday after preschool and when school students are excused at 2:15 pm until 5:30 pm. For specific hours and prices, check our homepage under Surround Care.
Luther High School, Onalaska, Wisconsin, does send a bus to Winona to pick up students who wish to attend the area high school which is supported by an association of Lutheran congregations, of which St. Matthew’s is a member. (Contact Mr. Schomberg for information about Luther High.)
Do your students have any problems transferring to the local high school after 8th grade graduation?
No. To date, we have not been informed that our graduates had problems when they entered the local high school. A number of our students have been in the top 25% or better of their class.
There is a dress code outlined in our school handbook. We do expect our students to wear clothing which shows good Christian judgment. The administration reserves the right to point out any grooming or dress habits they feel are not conducive to the Christian school environment.
Classes begin at 7:45 a.m. and are dismissed at 2:15 p.m. Our Kindergarten meets five full days a week.
Students who live within the boundaries of Winona School District #861 are eligible for bus transportation. Any question about transportation must be directed to the Transportation Office of District #861.
Yes. Our school participates in the state and federally funded National Hot Lunch Program. Information regarding meals and prices can be obtained from Mr. Schomberg.
Yes. St. Matthew’s has a sports program that involves activities throughout the entire school year. Students in grades K-4 participate in sports as part of their physical education program. Students in grades 5-8 are able to participate in interscholastic sports.
Chromebooks are used to enhance our curriculum through the uses of technology. SMART boards are in use in all of our classrooms. For more information, please contact Mr. Schomberg.
The amount of homework children have depends upon their grade level in school and their personal study habits. If children make use of free time and study periods, most of the daily assignments can be completed during the school day. In the middle school, regular homework is expected to be a part of the student’s training for higher education.
As a parent, you are always seeking to give your child the best education you can afford. St. Matthew’s serves to help children grow in their faith in Christ Jesus…the one thing your child will need now and in the hereafter. As the Bible so plainly put it, “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matt. 16:26
Kindergartners must be 5 years old and first graders 6 years old on or before September 1 of the year they want to enroll.
Tuition fees are based on church membership. Contact Mr. Schomberg for current tuition rates and details of the policy as it pertains to members of your congregation.
Worship is an essential aspect of a Christian’s faith-life. Parents and children will want to worship in the church of which they are members. If you do not have a church home, you are invited to attend St. Matthew’s and make our church and school a part of your daily life with Christ.
Yes! Starting in 5th Grade students can join band. We have a teacher that comes from Luther High once per week for lessons. We also have a piano teacher that comes once per week.
Should you need clarification of any of the above points or have any other questions, feel free to contact me at my office at any time.
Yours in Christ’s service,
Scott Schomberg, Principal
