A Note from Principal Retzlaff

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. You want a place where your child will be safe, challenged, encouraged, and truly known. At St. John Lutheran School, we’ve been blessed to provide exactly that for families in Libertyville and the surrounding communities.

Our mission is simple: to help children grow in faith, knowledge, and Christian character.

At St. John, students receive an excellent education in a caring, Christ-centered environment. Our dedicated teachers challenge students academically while nurturing the confidence, kindness, and integrity that will serve them throughout life. Because our classes are small, every child is more than just a name on a roster. Our teachers know each student personally, celebrate their successes, provide support when they need it, and partner closely with parents every step of the way.

What truly makes St. John unique is that Jesus is at the heart of everything we do. Throughout each school day, children hear the reassuring message of God’s love and grace. They learn that they are deeply loved by their Savior, forgiven through Jesus, and never alone. God’s Word shapes not only our Bible lessons but also the way we teach, encourage, and care for one another.

Our multi-grade classrooms in grades 1–8 create a family atmosphere where students learn alongside one another, develop leadership skills, and build meaningful friendships across grade levels. It’s one of the many reasons our students grow in confidence, responsibility, and compassion.

We believe education is about much more than preparing students for the next grade. It’s about preparing them for life. We want every child to leave St. John equipped with strong academic skills, a heart for serving others, and a faith that gives them hope and direction no matter what the future holds.

If you’re exploring private school options, we’d love the opportunity to meet your family. Come visit our campus, meet our teachers, and experience the welcoming community that makes St. John such a special place.

We look forward to showing you how your child can grow in faith, knowledge, and Christian character at St. John Lutheran School.

About David

David brings nearly four decades of educational leadership and teaching experience to St. John. A 1986 graduate of Martin Luther College, he earned his Master’s Degree in Elementary Education with a focus on leadership in 2016. Before moving to Grayslake in 2024, David served as a beloved teacher and principal at Christian schools in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

When he’s not at school, David and his wife, Bobbi, love exploring northeastern Illinois and southern Door County with their dog, Odie. You can also catch him out on a casual bike ride, hitting the golf course, or cheering on Wisconsin sports teams.