Faith, Education, and Community: The History of the Westside Lutheran School Association and Forest Hills Lutheran Christian School
1992
A Growing Interest
Members of the School Board at Pilgrim Lutheran School in Beaverton began exploring ways to expand enrollment and strengthen Christian education in the area. They presented their vision to other local Missouri Synod Lutheran congregations, and from these discussions emerged a shared interest in forming an association to support and expand Lutheran schools.
1993
A Potential Site Located
A potential school site was identified at the Good Shepherd Home of the West in Cornelius. As the organization relocated its residents to community group homes, it became open to leasing its 12-acre campus. The existing facilities could be renovated to accommodate a K–8 school, providing an opportunity to establish a second Lutheran school.
1994
An Association Formed
As the movement continued to grow, plans were made to open a new school. The Westside Lutheran School Association (WLSA) was established to operate both Pilgrim Lutheran School and its new sister school, which would be named Forest Hills Lutheran School. Eight LCMS congregations passed resolutions to join the WLSA, and preparations soon began for the opening of Forest Hills. Teachers were hired for five initial classrooms (K, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8), along with office and support staff. Dan Seim was called to serve as the school’s first principal, joining the founding team at Forest Hills.
September 1994
Forest Hills Lutheran Opens
The Forest Hills campus we know today first opened its doors in September 1994 with an enrollment of 48 students. By the second year, enrollment had nearly doubled to 92 students, and by the third year the school had grown to 132 students. Today, Forest Hills Lutheran Christian School serves approximately 170 students, reflecting decades of continued growth and strong community support.
1997
Campus Acquired by WLSA
By 1997, the continued growth and success of Forest Hills led to significant changes. Classrooms no longer needed to be shared, and Good Shepherd agreed to sell the campus to the Westside Lutheran School Association (WLSA).
1998
A Gift
In 1998, Vince and Elaine Dobbin generously presented the school with a significant financial gift that made it possible to construct a new gymnasium and music building. Completed in 2002, these facilities brought a transformative improvement to the Forest Hills campus. In later years, the Dobbins continued their generosity by supporting the expansion of the school’s kitchen and dining hall.
Forest Hills has also been blessed by the generosity of many supporters and donors whose contributions have enabled continued improvements and renovations across campus. Among these gifts was the large estate of Mel Hering, which strengthened both the Facilities Endowment and the Scholarship Endowment while also helping fund major campus improvements.
2014
A Community in Christ
In 2014, the school was renamed Forest Hills Lutheran Christian School to more fully reflect the inclusive and growing Forest Hills community.
Present
Who We Are
Forest Hills Lutheran Christian School (FHLCS) is dedicated to developing students academically, spiritually, and personally. Through small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and a strong partnership with families, FHLCS provides a supportive learning environment where students grow in faith while building a rigorous academic foundation.
Students benefit from a well-rounded education that includes core academics, technology integration, music and arts, athletics, and leadership opportunities. With a focus on character, service, and academic excellence, FHLCS prepares students to become confident learners and compassionate leaders who are ready to make a positive impact in their communities.