The Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA) is excited to announce the grand opening of Christ the King Lutheran High School in Leslie, Missouri. With the addition of Christ the King, LESA now proudly supports six Lutheran high schools as members of its association.

Christ the King Lutheran High School will officially begin classes on August 24, welcoming its first class of students. The school currently has four freshmen and two sophomores enrolled for its inaugural year.

Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, Christ the King plans to introduce an exciting Agricultural Program featuring a Farm-to-Table class, woodworking, and other hands-on electives that connect classroom learning with real-world skills.

The Christ the King campus offers students a unique learning environment, including a garden and pond where students will have opportunities for hands-on experiences and outdoor activities, including fishing.

Principal Sam Eckman shared his excitement about the new school, stating, “What makes CTK unique is that this is brand new and something that has never been done before in Franklin and Gasconade County. I am most excited to welcome students and help them learn what it means to ‘Foster Confidence in the Gospel.’”

For years, families and community members prayed for the opportunity to have a Lutheran high school in the area. God answered those prayers through the generosity of Don and Pam Koppelman, who donated their estate to help make Christ the King Lutheran High School a reality.

Through this generous gift and the dedication of many supporters, Christ the King is beginning its story of providing Christ-centered education and opportunities for students in the community.

About LESA

More than 9,800 children attend LESA-member Lutheran schools in the St. Louis metro area, making Lutheran schools the second-largest private school system in the bi-state region. A Recognized Service Organization of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, LESA represents 38 elementary and high schools and five related agencies. For more information, visit www.LESAstl.org