A vision for a Missouri Synod Lutheran high school in the Washington/Ozaukee County area began over 25 years ago. Most recently under the leadership of Rev. Tim Niekerk, president of the board of directors, an association of LCMS congregations was formed. These congregations included St. John, West Bend; Immanuel, Cedarburg; St. Andrew, West Bend; St. Paul, Grafton; St. John, Fredonia, and Living Word, Jackson.
The process began in 1997 and land was purchased in the year 2000 in Jackson. The board made the decision to build before the school opened its doors. Ground was broken on over 50 acres in Jackson in December of 2000. Dr. Cary Stelmachowicz was called and began serving as the school’s first Executive Director in January of 2001.
The school opened on August 27th, 2001 with 39 students, freshmen and sophomores, and 5 full time faculty and staff. Year two, 2002-2003, brought a total of 81 students to the school. In year three, 2003-2004, a total of 102 students would attend including a graduating class of 11 students. Year four, 2004-2005, saw 131 students attend including the first four year graduating class of 26 students. The fifth school year, 2005-2006, saw an enrollment of 153 and graduates. Year six, 2006-2007, saw an enrollment of 157 students and 38 graduates. Year seven, 2007-2008, saw 162 students and 36 graduates. Year eight, 2008-2009, saw 166 students including 49 graduates. There are currently 11 full-time and 9 part-time faculty and staff serving at Living Word Lutheran High School.