CareCompass
Gethsemane Lutheran Childrens
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Gethsemane Lutheran Childrens
Gethsemane Lutheran Children’s Ministry Austin
Operating since 1987, Gethsemane Lutheran Children’s Ministry offers a stable and inclusive environment in North Austin. The program is rooted in a ‘Golden Rule’ curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving and Christian values through play-based learning. Families benefit from a long-standing community presence and a facility that includes four age-appropriate playgrounds and a full-sized indoor gymnasium for physical activity in any weather. The program is distinguished by exceptional staff stability, with an average teacher tenure exceeding 14 years. Led by a director with nearly two decades of experience at the center, the ministry provides a nurturing atmosphere where children are known and supported. Nutritious hot lunches and two daily snacks are prepared in a full kitchen and included in the program, while weekly chapel services foster a sense of belonging within the wider church community.
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
I love my Gethsemane Lutheran Church Family
They are so sweet here. The food bank on Tuesday morning is such a huge help during this time where everything is so expensive. They are genuine and very nice people.
My dad had been a member for a long time, but we can’t get a callback for his funeral. We are actively looking for somewhere else. I guess while your active and giving money, you’re good. But you pass, and no one cares.
It’s so cool how generations w/in a family think their word is ultimate. Hopefully the rest of us peasants will be allowed to bow at their feet and be as dull and heartless with no personality or character. We all get lost thinking life has more to offer but thank God they show us how to be lame and weird and boring.
What a wonderful experience! The people were so sweet and friendly. I was raised a German Luthern and found out today why I have been missing the church.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No direct safety incidents or licensing violations were found for the children's ministry; however, in May 2024, the associated Gethsemane Lutheran Church faced a major investigation involving at least 20 allegations of historic abuse by a former pastor. The childcare facility remains in good standing with the state, holding a Texas Rising Star 4-star rating, the highest quality accreditation awarded by the state. Licensing records show the facility has been permitted since 1987 with a capacity of 125 children.
Parent Reputation
The facility maintains a positive reputation in the Austin parenting community, with forum discussions on Reddit and Nextdoor frequently recommending it as a safe and 'amazing' option. Parents highlight the 'Golden Rule' based curriculum and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. While aggregate review sites like Yelp and Facebook have few recent written reviews, community sentiment remains consistently favorable toward its long-standing operations.
Staff Insights
The ministry reports an average teacher tenure of over 14 years, a significant marker of stability and staff satisfaction. Lead teachers are required to have a Child Development Associate (CDA) degree or higher, and the current director has led the center for over 19 years. Employees are praised by parents for being 'tuned in' to the children and maintaining low child-to-staff ratios.
Quick Information
