Welcome Career Guidance at Luther

At Luther High School, we recognize that parents play the primary role in their children’s education. Since 1957, families have partnered with us in providing a Christ-centered education, and we are deeply grateful for that trust. Our teachers view their work as a calling, guiding students to grow in faith and preparing them for lives of service to their Savior, Jesus Christ. We are honored to support you as your children mature and prepare for adulthood.

A central role of the Luther High School Guidance Department is to help students look ahead and get ready for what’s next –  life after graduation.

  • We work closely with families to develop a personalized and balanced academic plan that reflects each student’s God-given abilities and interests.
  • Whether a student’s path leads to college, the workforce, military service, or training for ministry, we are here to provide guidance every step of the way.
  • We also help students and parents navigate the financial aspects of further education, including scholarships, grants, and loan options.

Throughout a student’s time at Luther High School, thoughtful course planning remains a priority. We strive to align each student’s schedule with their future goals while allowing room for growth and changing interests. In addition to our core curriculum, students have access to expanded opportunities through partnerships with online programs and colleges, including options to earn college credit while still in high school. Other opportunities such as the Work Release Program allow students to gain practical experience, explore vocational options and earn income simultaneously.

Centered on Christ, the education at Luther High School provides a strong foundation for both faith and future success. We invite you to learn more by exploring this Guidance page. Contact me with any questions.

Serving Christ with you,

Mark Loersch, M.S. Ed. Professional Development
Director of Guidance
(608) 783-5435 ext. 2570
loermark@luther.k12.wi.us

Loersch Picture

Google Classroom Resources

The Guidance Office uses Google Classroom to inform our parents and students of topics such as:

  • Scheduling guidelines
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendations
  • College & military representatives visits
  • Dual credit info
  • ACT info
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • College/career planning

To join the site click HERE 

Guidance Department Timeline

9th Grade

Freshman year focuses on establishing a strong academic base through core courses, along with a limited number of electives to enrich learning. Each student is paired with a homeroom teacher who will support and guide them throughout their four years at Luther High School. Before the school year begins, this teacher connects with both the student and their family to build familiarity and help ease the transition into high school.

Throughout the year, the homeroom teacher plays a key role in advising course choices, monitoring academic progress, and encouraging involvement in extracurricular activities. Students are also introduced to the process of recognizing their God-given gifts and talents, using those insights to begin thinking about life after high school. All students take the PreACT in the spring. This provides another way to show strengths and weaknesses as well as providing a projected ACT score.

10th Grade

Sophomore year is a time for students to begin refining their future plans. With a broader selection of courses available, students can start tailoring their schedules to reflect their developing interests, including some opportunities for online coursework.
While homeroom teachers continue to provide close support, the Guidance Department becomes more actively involved in helping students make thoughtful academic decisions and begin preparing for post-graduation pathways. All students again take the PreACT. A different college admissions representative is on campus almost every week.

11th Grade

Junior year offers students a greater level of flexibility in shaping their academic experience. With an expanded course catalog, students can choose classes that align more directly with their goals and interests for life after graduation.
During this year, the Guidance Department meets with students to explain the steps involved in pursuing higher education, whether at a college, university, or technical school. Opportunities such as Advanced Placement courses and dual-credit online classes through partner colleges exist to get the students more prepared for the next level. A different college admissions representative is on campus almost every week.
Top level students are encouraged to take the PSAT/NMSQT in the fall which can qualify them for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. The ACT is given at Luther High School for free in the spring to all Juniors that want to take it.

12th Grade

Senior year represents the culmination of a student’s preparation for the next stage of life. While many Luther High School students pursue four-year colleges or universities, others choose paths such as technical education, trade schools, military service, or direct entry into the workforce.
The Guidance Department works closely with each student through individual meetings, offering support with college applications, decision-making, and financial planning. Students receive guidance on scholarships as they finalize their plans. A different college admissions representative is on campus almost every week.
By graduation, the goal is for every student to have a clear and purposeful direction for their future, grounded in their faith and equipped for a life of service.

“The music, drama, and athletic memories that we hold in our hearts were particularly impactful – especially the teachers, coaches, and peers who made them so fun. The understood common goal that we shared of glorifying God with our lives enriched those experiences all the more.”
Michael and Karyn L., Luther High School Parents and Alumni