Forever Family.
More than 2,600 alumni have walked our graduation stage since 1883 — from Trinity Lutheran School to Heartland Lutheran and now Grand Island Lutheran High. One legacy. One community. Forever connected.
“Our alumni can be found on just about every continent — Japan, China, Switzerland, Australia, Zambia, Argentina, Indonesia, and beyond. That’s quite a reach for a small Lutheran school in Nebraska.”
Our Story
One Community, Three Names, One Mission
Whether you graduated as a Tiger, a Red Hornet or are among the first to call yourself GILH Lightning — you are part of the same FAMILY, rooted in the same faith.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
Trinity Lutheran School has been shaping young lives since 1881 — sending graduates into the world equipped with strong academics and an even stronger faith. For generations, these students carried the name “Tigers” with pride.
This summer, an exciting new chapter began. Trinity and Heartland Lutheran High School united under a single district — Central Nebraska Lutheran School — giving our community a continuous PreK through 12th grade Lutheran education for the first time. Grand Island Lutheran High School was born, and in May 2026, the first class will cross that stage under a new name, carrying forward a legacy that stretches back over 140 years.
No matter when you graduated or which name was on your diploma, you belong here. This is your community. This is your family.
Stay Connected
Help Us Keep in Touch
Life moves fast — and we want to celebrate every milestone with you. Whether you’ve moved, gotten married, welcomed a new baby, earned a degree, or changed careers, we’d love to know!
Give Back
Your Story Can Shape the Next Generation
You’ve walked these halls. You know what a CNLS education means. Now you have the chance to help the next class of students experience the same — and more.
Speak to a Class
Our students are inspired by real stories of faith, hard work, and purpose. Come back and tell yours — whether you’re a teacher, a doctor, a pastor, a farmer, or anything in between. Every career is a calling worth sharing.
Express InterestVolunteer with Us
CNLS is growing into an exciting new era, and alumni are a vital part of that future. From event support to mentoring students, there are many ways to roll up your sleeves and invest in the next generation of Lutheran students.
Sign Up to VolunteerAlumni Voices
What Our Alumni Are Saying
The impact of a CNLS education echoes through every chapter of life. Here’s what our alumni have shared about their time here.
My experience at Trinity Lutheran School has had a profound effect on just about every aspect of my life, both personally and spiritually. The staff helped instill a sense of morality that affects my decisions every day. I would not be the same person without my wonderful experience at Trinity.
I gained a love for the Savior while attending Trinity Lutheran, mostly through music and choir. Mr. Victor Peter was key in my conversion and Christian growth. I have a great love for my Lutheran heritage and the teachers and pastors who introduced me to Christ and the Bible.
After our first reunion, I was in tears as I thanked my parents for sending me to a Lutheran school. My favorite teachers shaped who I became — and 39 years of teaching later, I still carry their lessons with me every single day.
Join the Alumni Community on Facebook
Connect with fellow alumni, share memories, and stay up to date with everything happening at CNLS — all in one place.
Visit the Alumni Facebook Group