History of the School
Our school had its humble beginnings in 1905 in a building just north of the church on 11th street. Its first teacher was Henry Lankenau and for the next 30 years the school worked hard to fulfill its mission of bringing education and Christian teaching to its families.
The first school building in 1905
Henry Lankenau, Zion's first teacher
By 1934 enrollment had dropped and the congregation voted to close the school. For the next 20 years as our country suffered though a number of different hardships, Zion and Decatur were without the power of the Holy Spirit in a classroom setting.
In 1950 a new Parish-Education building began construction and in 1956 the school was reopened with 18 first graders. By the early 60’s, Zion School was back with 8 grades and enrollment numbers of 100 or more.
The Parish-Education building in 1956
Since then the school has been an important ministry and arm of Zion. The Preschool was added in the mid 70’s and over the best 40 years we have celebrated many accomplishments. From the academic achievements of our students in continuing education to the National Lutheran Basketball Champions –Boys Division in 2004, Zion Lutheran School has been a strong and positive influence with a Christ-centered education in North Adams County.
